Information Services/Local History Librarian - South Brunswick Public Library

Job Description:

Full-time Information Services/Local History Librarian

South Brunswick Public Library

The South Brunswick Library, located halfway between the metropolitan hubs of NYC and Philadelphia, is home to a diverse, growing community that values all the services the Library provides. Our staff is dedicated to providing excellent customer service, innovative programming, representative collections, preserving our local history and community engagement and outreach. 

Our Library is in the final stages of an $11 million construction project to expand and repurpose our existing building. We are excited to bring new team members aboard as we build our next chapter at the South Brunswick Public Library. Renovations include a new auditorium, state-of-the art meeting room, an expanded Teen Room, group study rooms, an instruction lab and more.

We are seeking a self-motivated, innovative and detail-oriented Information Services librarian whose primary responsibilities will include managing our South Brunswick local history collection with a special focus on making the collection more accessible to our community.   Working with our local school district and the South Brunswick Historical Society, this candidate will plan and provide  programming relating to local history and maintain a strong social media presence as well.  The ideal candidate will have experience in archival work and a strong interest in preserving and digitizing local history.

This position will also provide exemplary reference service, as part of the Information Services Department. Hours will include one evening per week and one Saturday a month as part of a rotating schedule.

Primary responsibilities:

Develops, evaluates, and maintains the library’s local history collection (including print, digital, specialized, and archival materials); as well as a portion of the circulating collection. Selects, displays and withdraws materials according to best practices.

Provides guidance and assists groups and individuals with using library and local history resources, including databases, catalogs, digital, and primary source material.

Creates and maintains catalog records, finding aids, bibliographies, and instructional materials for the local history collection, focusing on accessibility.

Coordinates regular meetings of the South Brunswick Historical Society,  presenting topics for discussion and planning activities throughout the year to engage and inform members of the South Brunswick community.  Represents the Historical Society and Library at township events.

Provides exemplary reference service to the public at various service points, including the Information Desk, public computer areas, and via telephone and chat reference. Assists patrons with the operation and maintenance of library equipment, including lendable devices, public computers, printing, scanners, and fax machines.

Respond to research requests from the public, local historians, and genealogists.

Develops and delivers instructional sessions, exhibits, and public programming on local history research, information literacy, and topics of local interest.

Plans, directs and implements special projects involving the promotion of the Library’s local history collection. Identify opportunities for grants, partnerships, and community engagement.

Fosters relationships with the township historian and Historical Society, nearby cultural institutions, and non-profit organizations.

Participates in departmental initiatives, cross-department committees, and works collaboratively with other members of the library staff.

Supports library outreach, representing the Library and its services in the community, including working collaboratively with the local school district on local history projects. 

 Attends continuing education programs.

Requirements:

Master of Library Science (MLS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited university.

Minimum one year experience as a professional librarian, preferably with some work with local history and archival work.  

Proven ability to provide outstanding customer service to a wide range of ages and abilities.

Proven ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form with patrons and staff and have excellent public speaking abilities.

Knowledge and proficiency of spoken and written English, including style and editing standards.

Proven ability to engage patrons and staff in the promotion of library programs and services.

Currency and fluency with technology trends in public libraries; excellent digital literacy skills including proficiency with use of mobile devices, and downloading of e-books, e-magazines, and streaming media.

Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Skills:
Fluency in a language other than English.

Knowledge of Polaris and Google Workspace.

Compensation: 

Salary commensurate with experience, starting at $61,793. South Brunswick Library provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental and prescription benefits. Full-time librarians receive 22 vacation and 15 sick days per year, in addition to paid holidays and personal days. This position is covered by CWA 1031.

Applicants should send a cover letter, resume and library application to Jill D’Amico, Head of Information Services, at jdamico@sbpl.info or 110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852. No phone calls, please. Library application can be found at https://sbpl.info/employment/

Preference will be given to applications received by October 20, 2025

Application link or email address: jdamico@sbpl.info

Salary range or hourly wage: 2025 starting salary is $61,793

MLS required: Yes, an MLS is required.

Job focus:

Work schedule: