Adult Services Librarian / Reference Department Manager

Adult Services Librarian/Reference Department Manager – Joplin Public Library, Joplin, MO

POSITION AVAILABLE: Adult Services Librarian/Reference Department Manager

SCHEDULE: Full‐time, exempt position (40 hours per week); requires some evening and weekend work.

The Joplin Public Library is seeking an enthusiastic, community-focused librarian to lead our Reference and Local History departments.

This is an opportunity to join a collaborative and innovative public library serving a growing and engaged community from a modern library facility featuring a Makerspace, community meeting spaces, outdoor gathering areas, genealogy and local history resources, and dedicated study and learning spaces.

The successful candidate will supervise and support a team of librarians and library assistants while helping shape adult services, reference, programming, outreach, and community engagement efforts throughout the Library.

We are looking for someone who:

• enjoys working with the public,
• values collaboration and creativity,
• is comfortable leading a team,
• and is excited to help develop responsive and engaging library services.

Early-career librarians are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications:

• MLS/MLIS from an ALA-accredited program required
• Public library or related library experience preferred
• Strong communication, leadership, and customer service skills

Salary range: $60,038–$66,287 plus excellent benefits, including employer-paid health, dental, and life insurance, LAGERS pension, paid leave, and professional development support.

Additional details at https://www.joplinpubliclibrary.org/careers

Applications can be found at https://www.joplinpubliclibrary.org/LibraryApp.pdf

Completed applications can be dropped off at the Library or emailed to Jeana Gockley at jgockley@joplinpubliclibrary.org.

Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

The Joplin Public Library is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Posted 5/15/26

Pay: $60,038.00 - $66,287.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person