Posted: Jul 22, 2026

Young Adult and Reference Librarian

Suffern Free Library - Suffern, NY
Full-time
Salary: $56,000.00 - $56,000.00 Annually
Application Deadline: N/A
Public

Position Title: Young Adult and Reference Librarian

Works Directly For: Head of Adult Information Services

Full/Part-Time: Full-Time

Purpose: Provide high-quality reference services, including digital literacy and reader’s advisory, to a diverse collection of patrons through a variety of means; Responsible for identifying and interpreting user needs; Instruct patrons on library services, resources, and programming; Review library materials, including inventory and weeding, and work on collection development for adult/YA patrons; Organize and run Young Adult programs, including summer reading, collection development and clubs/events.

 

Primary Duties:

  • Reference Services: Answers varied, often complex, questions for patrons in-person, over the phone, and online.
  • Instruction & Technology: Teaches patrons how to use library catalogs, databases, and equipment, including printers, computers, and internet navigation.
  • Collection Development: Selects, purchases, and weeds Young Adult library materials to maintain a relevant collection.
  • Programming & Outreach: Develops and presents programs (e.g., workshops, book clubs) and conducts community outreach.
  • Reader's Advisory: Assists readers in discovering new materials, including maintaining reading lists.
  • Statistics: Collects and inputs data into monthly and annual spreadsheets
  • Maintains the Young Adult Collection including shelf-reading
  • Trains and supervises the library’s pages and assists with supervising volunteers.
  • Promotes library services through flyers, brochures, newspapers, book displays, and other types of publicity.
  • May write grant proposals and administer grant funded projects; may write press releases and public notices, brochures, newsletters and other promotion materials.
  • Perform other related duties as required.

Skills:

  • Ability to effectively meet and deal with the public.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally.
  • Ability to establish successful working relationships.
  • Ability to work under frequent interruptions.
  • Ability to handle stressful situations.
  • Ability to give clear, concise, and informative talks before professional and nonprofessional groups.
  • Ability to think critically and creatively to solve problems and implement ideas.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and share knowledge with others using oral, written and electronic communication skills.
  • Ability to analyze, interpret and apply the rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of a library.
  • Ability to train and assist the public with communications, technology literacy, and all information resources.
  • Ability to practice effective customer service skills to best determine patrons' needs.

Qualifications

  • Education: A Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited program and NYS Public Librarian Certification are required.
  • Communication: Strong interpersonal skills to assist a diverse public in a helpful manner.
  • Technical Proficiency: Knowledge of research databases, Microsoft Office, and troubleshooting common office technology, including Koha.
  • Organization: Ability to prioritize tasks and maintain orderly library materials, including attention to detail.
  • Transportation: Must have a valid NYS driver’s license and access to a reliable means of transportation.

Working Conditions

  • This role usually involves working in a public-facing setting, with responsibilities requiring some evenings and weekends.
  • The position may involve moderate lifting of books and materials.

Schedule: This position is full-time at 35 hours per week and includes working one evening a week (Wednesday), as well as one Saturday and one Sunday a month.

Pay Rate: $56,000 per year plus benefits

Qualified candidates should send cover letter, resume, and name and contact information for 3 references to Jennifer Cohen at [email protected]

How To Apply:

Qualified candidates should send cover letter, resume, and name and contact information for 3 references to Jennifer Cohen at [email protected]