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Head Librarian – Acquisitions Services
The Ypsilanti District Library seeks an experienced, dependable, and organized librarian with supervisory and cataloging experience to lead our Acquisitions Services team. Acquisitions Services workspaces, renovated in 2022, are located at YDL-Whittaker.
Nature of Work/Responsibilities: Under the supervision of the Assistant Director, the Acquisitions Services Head plans and directs the ordering, cataloging, processing, and payment of library materials using the Polaris automated library system. Supervising a staff currently comprised of 3 Paraprofessional positions, the Head coordinates a smooth workflow of placing orders, receiving and checking in new materials, cataloging materials and making them shelf-ready.
Duties include:
- Supervises the day-to-day operation of the Acquisitions Department, including development and administration of the YDL collection budgets
- Communicates effectively and provides active supervision of department staff, including scheduling, training, conflict resolution and performance appraisal
- Serves on the library’s management team and actively participates in system-wide planning
- Implements cataloging standards
- Oversees serials management, orders materials and processing supplies, and works effectively with vendors
- Manages invoicing and collection budget using the ILS Acquisitions module
- Responsible for district-wide ILL requests via MeLCat
- Performs original cataloging for a growing Library of Things
- Collaborates with public service departments to introduce new collections and manage upgrades
- Compiles statistics necessary to evaluate the department’s activities; prepares reports as requested
- Fills in at public service desks when necessary to ensure excellent service, including one Sunday/month at the Adult Services desk
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications and Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Master’s Degree in Library Science or equivalent from an ALA-accredited institution.
- Minimum three years progressively responsible professional public library experience.
- Previous supervisory experience directing workflow, developing procedures, and coordinating departmental operations
- Financial management experience
- Familiarity with EDI ordering
- Ability to manage digital platforms
- Ability to think analytically and develop new systems and procedures
- Ability to motivate staff and establish/maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, vendors, and the public
- Advanced computer literacy and knowledge of Polaris systems, including Vega
- Ability to prepare comprehensive reports and present ideas clearly and concisely in oral and written form
- Knowledge of MARC and RDA standards
- Ability to make administrative decisions and interpret library policies
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, organize work, and set priorities
- Positive public service attitude
Salary/ Benefits: $72,200-$86,000 annual salary. YDL offers a comprehensive benefits package including generous paid time off, 12 paid holidays, family health/vision/dental insurance, and contribution to a MERS retirement plan.
To Apply: Apply online at ypsilibrary.org/jobs by April 19, 2026
-OR- Send resume, cover letter & application form (available at www.ypsilibrary.org) to:
Human Resources
Ypsilanti District Library
5577 Whittaker Road
Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197
The Ypsilanti District Library is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse workforce, and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, or age. YDL has an internal workgroup dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, with the goal of a diverse workforce that is representative at all job levels, of the citizens we serve, to support a more equitable future for all.
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