Under the direction of the Administrative Coordinator of Branch Library Services, the Branch Head Librarian is responsible for overseeing the facility, the daily operations, and the overall administration of their library branch. This includes the planning, delivery, and evaluation of library services to meet the needs of the community. The position interacts with customers of all ages, creating a positive and welcoming library experience for all. The position provides information, helps customers access library services in physical and/or digital form, and provides programs for all ages and ability levels within the library and community. This includes providing frontline service at the circulation/reference desk, coordinating programming and outreach initiatives, and participating in or taking the lead on divisional committees and/or working groups. This position supervises, trains, and evaluates library branch staff and may act in the capacity of Administrative Coordinator of Branch Library Services, as required.

As the Branch Head Librarian, your duties will include:

• Plans, supervises, and evaluates staff performance and the operation of their branch library to ensure the comprehensive and responsive delivery of library services, collections, and programs.
• Provides and ensures the provision of responsive and inclusive information and reader’s advisory services in person, over the telephone, and electronically, to adults and children to ensure valuable service is provided to Winnipeg library users.
• Develops partnerships and initiatives with internal and external community groups, departments and organizations to create, develop, and enhance branch programs, displays, and services to ensure comprehensive and diverse offerings to Winnipeg library users.
• Maintains the collections within the branch to ensure a balanced, current, and responsive collection for Winnipeg library users.
• Oversees the maintenance of the branch and its safety standards to provide a safe, accessible, and welcoming environment for staff and the public.

Your education and qualifications include:

• A Master of Library & Information Sciences (MLIS) degree from an institution accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). An MLIS degree (or equivalent) obtained internationally through a formally accredited institution may also be considered.

• A minimum of 12 months of experience as a Librarian 1 in Library Services or 12 months in a similar related position at another organization.

• Experience providing reference service and/or broad knowledge of information sources and tools in public libraries.

• Experience in planning and delivering programs for adults.

• Experience in planning projects and services including conducting outreach initiatives.

• Supervisory experience including the ability to build, coach, and mentor diverse teams and individuals.

• Experience using Microsoft Office software applications, such as Word, Excel, Outlook and SharePoint.

• Ability to identify, investigate, and understand the information needs of customers.

• Strong problem solving and analytical skills, and the ability to think creatively and take initiative.

• Strong interpersonal skills including the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• Ability to handle all responsibilities with a high level of professionalism and sensitivity, including when dealing with staff, media and/or the public.

• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to effectively plan and prioritize tasks in stressful situations to meet multiple and/or conflicting deadlines.

• Knowledge of safe work practices with a commitment to fostering a safe work environment.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively communicate in formal and informal settings.

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of librarianship.

• Knowledge of the organization, policies and procedures, services, and resources of the Winnipeg Public Library.

• IMPORTANT: Applicants who have been educated outside of Canada must have education which is comparable to the minimum qualification in Canada. Applicants submitting foreign credentials require an official academic assessment report issued by a recognized Canadian assessment service https://canalliance.org/en/ at application.

Conditions of employment:

• The successful applicant must maintain legal eligibility to work in Canada. If the successful applicant possesses a work permit, it is their responsibility to ensure the permit remains valid.
• A Police Information Check (Vulnerable Sector) Satisfactory to the employer will be required from the applicant(s) or successful candidate(s), at their expense. To obtain a Police Information Check please visit www.winnipeg.ca/police.
• Must be willing and able to work evenings and weekends as required.