Joplin Public Library is thrilled to announce the appointment of two brand new librarian positions. New librarian appointments are rare for the Library, with the last unique job addition taking place in 2006, when a teen services librarian was added. On August 2, the Joplin Public Library promoted Jason Sullivan, a reference assistant, to the newly created role of electronic resources librarian, and on September 27, welcomed Derek Moser as its first adult programming librarian. There has been a strongly perceived need for both of these positions, and their addition will likely provide a significant enhancement to patron services.

The new positions come with some exciting opportunities.  Moser will coordinate in-house and outreach programs for adults, assist users with research, reader’s advisory, and other services, and strive to connect with community partners.  Sullivan will manage and support access to the Library’s digital information resources, coordinate interlibrary loan services, and administer the integrated library system.

Sullivan has worked in the Library’s reference department since 2007. His longevity and dedication to the Library, combined with his educational experience and the skills acquired in the Reference Department make him an ideal fit for his new position.  He holds a Masters in Library Science from Kent State University, a Masters in Education from University of Missouri, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from University of Denver.

Moser’s education, work experience and professional skill set make him a noteworthy addition to the Library team.  He holds a Masters in Library Science from the University of Kentucky, a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from MidAmerica Nazarene University, and is a veteran of the Joplin Public Library where he previously worked from 2016 to 2018.  First, as a children’s library assistant and then later as the assistant circulation supervisor.  In 2018, he accepted the library director role at the Seth Wilson Library at Ozark Christian College.

“One of the best aspects of working at the Joplin Public Library is the amount of buy-in the staff has regarding the Library’s mission,” said Moser. “The Library is filled with people committed to ‘opening tomorrow’s doors today through diverse opportunities to learn, create, explore, and have fun.’ To be a part of a staff committed to such a task is truly an honor.”