Coordinator of Reference, Instructional Services and User Experience, Mount Wachusett Community College, Gardner, MA

Posted June 9, 2020

Description:

The Coordinator of Reference, Instructional Services and User Experience provides shared leadership and strategic direction in the development and implementation of research and information literacy practices that support student success and the creation of user-centered, inclusive and accessible experiences with Library resources and responsive touch points. The Coordinator facilitates communication between all members of the reference and instruction team (day and evening) and provides reference service and research instruction to Library patrons. The Coordinator oversees the management of electronic resources, conducts usability studies with Library users and maintains and develops the Library website.

Responsibilities:

• Teaches classes in support of the Library instruction program, coordinating with other Library staff and faculty to engage students in learning and practicing information literacy.
• Facilitates communications originating from reference and the research and instruction program.
• Creates research instruction videos for the Research Skills MOOC or equivalent, database tutorials and other resources and services.
• Creates LibGuides.
• Provides in-person and virtual research help to students, faculty, staff and the community.
• Provides virtual research help using email, chat and Blackboard Collaborate Ultra. Staffs Circulation Desk as needed.
• Develops and maintains reports, documentation and records for the reference area.
• Creates accurate and timely documentation for all procedures and processes for the reference area. 
• Creates reference coverage schedules.
• Provides learning opportunities and support for Library staff regarding reference tools/databases and research instruction.
• Facilitates librarians meetings on topics related to job responsibilities.
• Maintains current knowledge of trends and best practices as they impact academic libraries.
• Develops the Library website and ensures access to online Library databases and electronic books.
• Engages stakeholders to optimize information discovery on the Library’s website in a way that supports a coherent user experience for web-based Library resources and services.
• Ensures the Library’s web-based content adheres to ADA accessibility standards.
• Collaborates with the assessment coordinator to assess the Library website and other digital systems. Establishes and implements usability testing.
• Manages electronic resources for the Library, including implementation and maintenance. Participates in the evaluation and selection of electronic and print resources as part of collection development.
• Serves as a liaison to academic departments.
• Works creatively, collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork.
• Demonstrates capacity, skill and willingness to engage students and contribute to student success.
• Participates in College governance and other committees as part of college service.
• Participates in professional development activities, including attending workshops and conferences.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Skills Knowledge and Aptitudes:

• Thorough knowledge of print and electronic information sources.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office products, electronic databases, search engines and website development and maintenance.
• In-depth experience with HTML and CSS.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to respond effectively to changing needs and priorities showing initiative and flexibility.
• Ability to interact effectively and work collaboratively with a variety of colleagues.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Library Science or closely related field.
• Five (5) years’ experience and/or training involving library operations, reference service, bibliographic instruction, circulation service, copy cataloging and library information systems; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Desired Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited school.
• Experience teaching, training or presenting.
• Ability to contribute to creating a positive and respectful workplace defined by personal and professional competence, integrity and collaboration.
• Ability to use technology in creative ways to problem-solve and/or facilitate workflow.
• JavaScript, XML and Bootstrap experience.
• Experience testing interfaces for usability and/or accessibility.
• Experience with usability testing techniques.
• Experience with APIs and Mobile Technologies.
• Equivalency Statement.
• Applicants who do not meet the qualifications as stated above are encouraged to put in writing precisely how their background and experience have prepared them with the equivalent combination of education, training and experience required for the responsibilities of this position.

Additional Information:

This is a full-time position, 37.5 hours per week. Benefits are included. Salary is  $63,608.00-$108.418.00, determined by education, experience and any applicable grant limitations per the collective bargaining agreement.

How to Apply:

The original job posting can be found here. Apply by using the application portal there. A resume and cover letter are required. Anticipated Effective Date: August 2020. Applications accepted up to and including June 30, 2020. Applications received after June 30, 2020 MAY be considered until the position is filled. Candidates may be subject to employment screening to include both a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) request and a Sexual Offender Registry Information (SORI).