ILLINOIS LIBRARY ASSOCIATION is hiring: Reference Librarian/Lab Coordinator | Ga

Reference Librarian/Lab Coordinator | Galesburg Public Library

Posted on Dec 8, 2025

Job Summary: Provide customer service by aiding patrons in finding materials and information and showing patrons how to use library equipment. Order and maintain a balanced collection of materials for the interests and needs of our community. Oversee use of the Skills Lab, Tech Lab, and WhisperRoom.

Essential Functions:

• Greet visitors to the library and maintain a welcoming environment.
• Listen to patrons and provide friendly, patient assistance to them in finding what they are seeking.
• Understand functions of all departments to direct patron inquiries appropriately.
• Reserve/order materials for patrons including interlibrary loan requests.
• Monitor public computers and provide instruction, assistance and troubleshooting.
• Provide assistance with various machines including copy/print machines and microfilm readers.
• Promote library use through genre lists, displays and other special projects.
• Manage assigned areas of adult collection, including recommending materials for acquisition and withdrawal.
• Participate in reference collection maintenance.
• Notarize documents following Illinois law and Galesburg Public Library policy.
• Manage the scheduling of the library labs (Skills Lab, Tech Lab, and Whisper Room).
• Oversee the use of equipment in labs and coordinate the maintenance and purchase of equipment and supplies.
• Create policies and procedures for the use and maintenance of labs.
• Supervise and coordinate lab interns and volunteers.
• Write press releases and articles for local media.
• Promote library services via radio spots, social media, the newsletter, and the website.
• Assist with community outreach through programs and public relations.
• Keep current by reading journals and library related social media, attending meetings and conferences, and earning continuing education hours.
• Follow library policies and procedures.
• Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner which promotes good working relationships with patrons and staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree required; MLS preferred, library experience preferred.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Good communication skills, both oral and written.
• Good time management skills; self-motivated.
• Strong reference and reader’s advisory skills.
• Strong computer skills. Working knowledge of computer applications for library services.
• Experience working with and troubleshooting various devices and equipment is a plus.
• Ability to comprehend patron needs quickly and accurately.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with staff and public.
• Strong knowledge of research tools, including reference materials, databases and on-line catalogs.
• Ability to complete tasks despite interruptions.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

• Able to shelve books 18 inches from the ground and six feet above ground.
• Able to transport heavy book carts, lightweight materials, and light furniture.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; MLS preferred, library experience preferred.

$41,500

Location

Galesburg Public Library
264 W Main St
Galesburg, IL 61448
United States

How to apply

To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter, a current resume and contact information for three professional references to [emailprotected] or Kayla Whitmer, 264 W Main St. Galesburg IL 61401. Electronic applications are preferred. Applications received by December 12 will receive first consideration, but the position will remain open until filled.