Local History and Genealogy Librarian- Main Library

Vacancy Posting
& JOB DESCRIPTION

Local History &
Genealogy Librarian

Applications will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.
Please include cover letter and current resume with application.
Application forms are available and accepted at all MRCPL locations, or complete an online
application on our website: www.mrcpl.org/about/employment

This is a full time (40 hours per week) position.

Reports to: Adult Services FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Coordinator

Pay Grade: 24; $22.02/hr to start Location: Main Library

Positions Supervised: None

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Adult Services Coordinator, the Local
History & Genealogy Librarian is responsible for providing and promoting local history and
genealogy resources and services to persons of all ages, with a focus on adults, taking a lead role
in a variety of duties including recommending and implementing new and innovative local history
and genealogical services and resources, leading the maintenance and development of the
Sherman Room collection and local history archives, and the development, planning and
implementing of general and specialized programming for about genealogy and local history.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. MLS or MLIS from ALA-accredited university is required. Consideration will be given to
candidates actively enrolled in the MLS/MLIS program with proof of current enrollment.

2. Coursework emphasis on archival, preservation, and genealogical research tools and
techniques and genealogy is preferred.

3. Experience working in public library setting is preferred.
4. Advanced computer skills using Microsoft Office, GSuite, internet and email
5. Ability to read, write, speak and understand English
6. Must be experienced and comfortable working alone and in a team environment
7. Must have advanced facility with a variety of social media and digital formats along with

devices used by customers, like IPad, tablets, eReaders, smart phones and the like
8. Experience working with a wide variety of professional reference, research, and reader’s

advisory tools, publications, and resources.
9. Knowledge of current trends in public library resources, services, and programming.

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10. Reliability and above average work attendance with ability to work flexible schedule
including day, evening and weekend hours

11. Physical requirements: Engage in extended periods of sitting, standing, walking, bending,
stooping, kneeling, twisting/turning and stretching to shelve materials throughout the library
on shelves of varying heights from above shoulders to below knees. Engage in intermittent
periods of climbing stairs, typing and viewing computer monitors, lifting and carrying
equipment and materials occasionally weighing 40 – 60 pounds and pushing loaded book
trucks weighing 75 - 100 pounds or more on tile or carpet. Must be able to use hands and
fingers to grasp, handle and manipulate materials and operate tools and controls, including
computers, phones and office equipment. Occasionally required to get on hands and knees
to look for materials that have fallen under the shelves or stand on step stool 14 ½ inches
high to reach upper shelves. May need to sweep or vacuum after programs.

12. Must be a US citizen for Passport duties
13. Must meet the qualifications to become a commissioned Notary Public in Ohio
14. Favorable results of pre-employment background check
15. Reliable transportation in order to meet work requirements
16. Valid vehicle operator’s license is required, with acceptable driving record and current

vehicle insurance. Travel is required.
17. Required at time of hire: proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

1. Knowledge of Library policies, procedures and operations, including emergency response
(acquired after hire)

2. Knowledge of safe work practices and safe lifting techniques (acquired after hire)
3. Advanced knowledge of Dewey Decimal System and alphabetization principles
4. Advanced knowledge of reference interview and reader’s advisory techniques with

advanced knowledge of, and the ability to utilize appropriate resources when assisting
customers with selections and information.

5. Advanced knowledge of and experience using a variety of genealogical and historical
research resources to assist customers with genealogy and local history research

6. Familiarity with digitization of archival materials
7. Advanced knowledge of reference sources, in print and online, and experience with

providing reference services
8. Knowledge of adult literature and current trends in library service to adults.
9. Ability to simultaneously manage duties and complete work with multiple interruptions and

distractions
10. Ability to speak publicly to audiences of varying size and demographics
11. Ability to actively listen and communicate clearly with diverse customer base
12. Ability to understand and follow specific instructions
13. Ability to work independently in the absence of close supervision
14. Ability to prioritize work and efficiently carry out assigned tasks and projects
15. Ability to perform tasks in areas where seating is not provided, unless reasonable

accommodation is requested
16. Ability to remain mentally alert, focusing attention on detail and accuracy

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17. Skill in exhibiting an attitude of professionalism, including tact, good judgment, dependability
and courtesy

18. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail and accuracy

ESSENTIAL CORE COMPETENCIES
All MRCPL employees are expected to continuously demonstrate the following:

1. Basic computer skills with demonstrable ability to use applications in Windows
environment including Microsoft Office products, internet use and email

2. Ability to efficiently, effectively and positively meet the library needs of internal and
external customers

3. Ability to use good judgment and common sense when making decisions, based on
Library policies and procedures, to the best interest of the Library, staff and public

4. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
5. Ability to adapt and adjust to changing situations
6. Ability to troubleshoot and correct basic technology problems
7. Awareness of community events, resources, attractions and demographics
8. Understanding of Library policies and applicable local, state and federal laws and the

ability to communicate this information to staff and customers and ensure the Library’s
compliance

9. Knowledge of and ability to use the content of the Library’s website, online catalog and
Integrated Library System

10. Awareness of the attributes and library needs of particular customer groups and the
ability to apply that knowledge through materials, services and programming

11. Understand and support the Library’s role in providing free and equal access to ideas,
information, resources, and services, from all points of view, without restriction, to every
individual (Intellectual Freedom)

12. Ability to identify and prioritize work needs
13. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisor and other

staff members and work collaboratively with others to achieve organizational goals and
objectives

14. Knowledge of and compliance with the Ohio Ethics Law and the Code of Ethics and
values of the Library

15. Ability to promote and support the fundamental purpose of the public library, its mission,
vision, culture and structure

ESSENTIAL TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Note: The duties listed below illustrate but do not limit the tasks performed by persons in
this classification.

1. Consistently provide superior customer service.
2. Handle multiple interruptions at once, sustaining productivity and accuracy.
3. Exhibit professional, courteous and approachable demeanor at all times.
4. Work at the Public Service desk occasionally, as needed and professionally and

non-judgmentally provide quick and accurate answers, using appropriate reference
techniques.

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5. Deal tactfully and professionally with unhappy customers, resolving the customer’s issues
while explaining and adhering to Library policy.

6. Locate and process materials to fulfill customer requests.
7. Deal quickly and appropriately with emergency situations in accordance with library policies

and procedures.
8. Serve as local historian and point of contact for customers researching family ancestry.
9. Assist customers, regardless of age, in the use of the adult library collections, providing

directional, informational and referral services including Adult Reference and Teen Zone.
10. Take a lead role in training and supervising the Sherman Room Volunteers.
11. Assist in developing educational materials on the history of MRCPL.
12. Join and collaborate with local genealogy and history programs outside the Library.
13. Begin and facilitate a Genealogy Interest Group at the Library.
14. Continue digitization of appropriate Sherman Room materials in accordance with copyright

limitations.
15. Continue to add to the Sherman Room blog on a routine basis.
16. Conduct in-depth and skilled reference interviews, using resources and materials in a variety

of formats, to provide research assistance and connect customers to the information they
are seeking.

17. Conduct in-depth and skilled reader’s advisory services using resources and materials in a
variety of formats.

18. Perform collection maintenance in assigned areas of the collection by conducting collection
analysis, evaluating existing materials, removing out of date or worn materials, and verifying
physical labeling and catalog record accuracy.

19. Lead the development of the Sherman Room collection, evaluating existing and new titles
and making final selections for the collection.

20. Assist with daily shelving, straightening, and shelf reading.
21. Plan and execute programs related to John Sherman and other local history of Mansfield

and Richland County, in the Library or at outside venues, as requested.
22. Participate in producing local history and genealogy related adult programming in

conjunction with the Adult Programming Specialist.
23. Develop and present specialized workshops and training based on customer interest,

requests and needs and when requested by administration.
24. Directly assist and instruct customers in using library various online resources upon request

either in person or over the phone.
25. Occasionally assist in the use of computer reservation and print release software in

accordance with library policy and procedure.
26. Within 6 months, complete online training to become a US Passport Acceptance Agent and

process passport applications as requested.
27. Within 6 months, complete the online training to become commissioned as a Notary Public

in Ohio and notarize documents as requested.
28. Track and maintain statistical data within your area of responsibility or as requested by

supervisor.
29. Create and maintain displays on various themes and timely topics in or around the

department.
30. Create, publish and manage relevant and appropriate blog posts, Subject Guides and web

pages within area of responsibility.

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31. Maintain a current awareness of system wide library programs, resources, and services in
order to recommend to customers as appropriate.

32. Produce bibliographic aids such as reading lists, bibliographies and resource guides as
needed.

33. Complete specialized projects or off-desk responsibilities as assigned by supervisor,
meeting the operational needs of the department.

34. Make minor corrections to the Library catalog, as needed.
35. Serve as contact for community organizations, including schools, in your area of

responsibility.
36. Identify and make recommendations for improvements to operations and streamlined work

processes.
37. Represent the Library publicly at meetings and other activities, as directed.
38. Maintain regular and predictable attendance, working days, evenings and weekends to meet

the needs of the department.
39. With reasonable accommodation, meet the physical requirements and perform essential

tasks and responsibilities reliably within 6 months of on-the-job experience and training.

ADDITIONAL TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Note: The duties listed below illustrate but do not limit the tasks performed by persons in
this classification.

1. Adhere to, support and effectively implement Administration and Board policy, procedures
and core values.

2. Accept payments for printing and scanning services and return correct change.
3. Assist in the training of new staff and department volunteers.
4. Represent the Library at regional, state and national professional activities, as assigned.
5. Work with supervisor to identify promotional opportunities for services and resources

available within your area of responsibility.
6. Participate in the Library’s outreach efforts and activities.
7. Engage actively in professional development and monitor changes in the profession through

meetings, professional association membership and activities and professional reading,
bringing ideas and suggestions to the attention of the supervisor.

8. Act as Person In Charge (PIC) as requested, and work Sunday rotation when scheduled.
9. Perform opening and closing procedures for the adult department.
10. Attend meetings as scheduled by the Adult Services Coordinator.
11. Communicate regularly with supervisor.
12. Clean up bodily fluids as necessary following MRCPL procedures.
13. Attend Staff Development Day, and additional workshops and seminars as assigned.
14. Perform additional tasks as required by the upward chain of command, which moves from

the Local History & Genealogy Librarian to the Adult Services Coordinator to the Deputy
Director to the Director.

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