Library Circulation Supervisor en Town of Needham, MA

About the Department

The Town of Needham is seeking a passionate, dedicated individual to fill the full-time position of Library Circulation Supervisor at the Needham Free Public Library. Under the direction of the Assistant Library Director, the Library Circulation Supervisor will plan, direct, and evaluate the circulation department. The ideal candidate will have exemplary communication skills, the ability to lead others on the team, an interest in supporting and building a culture of inclusion for patrons of all ages, and a passion to serve the Needham community. 

It is an exciting time to join the Needham Free Public Library team! Our new Strategic Plan for FY2023-2027 positions the library to continue to meet the community’s needs for years to come. In addition, our recent Library Space Utilization Study reimagines the library’s interior space in four phases to enhance the work we do for our patrons and the community. Along with diverse collections, plentiful programming, and great services, the Needham Free Public Library is on track to be the go-to place for new and current library workers.

Schedule
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday: 12:30 - 9 PM
Saturday: 9 AM - 5 PM (one Saturday every three weeks with Friday off preceding the Saturday)

CON #26035

Position Duties

These duties are a general summary and not all inclusive:

• Oversee the check out, return, and shelving of library materials; oversee the issuance of Library cards; handle routine and complex circulation tasks, problems, and issues relayed by employees and patrons. Oversee the collection and accurate reporting of fees collected.
• Advise and assist patrons in selecting, locating, and utilizing library resource materials through knowledge of print materials, computerized catalog, electronic databases, and the Library of Things. 
• Maintain, update, and ensure accuracy of patron records in library system.
• Train, supervise, and schedule Circulation Department staff and volunteers. Participate in the hiring process for department staff.
• Oversee management of robust museum pass program as well as Materials by Mail service.
• Schedule and conducts Circulation Department meetings and regular staff check-ins as applicable.
• Compiles circulation records and statistics, distributes network reports, prepares monthly and annual circulation report for Director and Library Trustees; coordinates requests for all reports from library network systems.
• Evaluate the policies, procedures, and reports of the Circulation Department as needed and make recommendations for improvements.
• Participates actively in issues and meetings of the regional library network, particularly as they relate to circulation departments functions. Contacts regional library network or vendor for technical assistance or services as required. 
• Oversee the inventory of all circulation supplies; places and receives orders as necessary.
• Review, sign off on, and submit weekly department time sheets.

Minimum Qualifications

The following requirements may be substituted by any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job:

• Completion of four-year college degree program; MLIS degree preferred.
• Four (4) to six (6) years of professional library experience, including increasing supervisory responsibilities. 
• Knowledge of general public library policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Ability to effectively manage scheduling for the department, adapting to everchanging circumstances and staff availability.
• Ability to provide information and assistance effectively to patrons while ensuring high customer service standards.
• Skill in technology, including the application of office software and web applications in support of Departmental operations. 
• Effective verbal and written communication with internal and external stakeholders including patrons of all ages, Library staff, and other Town employees.

Other Qualifications

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and application by clicking “Apply.”
Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on October 24, 2025.

The Town of Needham is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and encouraging workplace. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, age, gender, national origin, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, veteran status, or any other protected class. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.
The Town of Needham will endeavor to provide reasonable accommodation to a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact us at [email protected].