SLIS Jobline Your Source for Professional, Pre-Professional, and Internship Positions

Children’s Librarian, Agawam Library, Agawam, MA

Posted August 5, 2015

The Town of Agawam Personnel Office, on behalf of the Mayor, is accepting applications to fill the position of full-time, Children’s Librarian within the Agawam Public Library.

Primary Responsiblities:

  • The Children’s Librarian performs professional library functions requiring specialized knowledge and expertise in all areas of public library services especially those areas relating to toddlers, school aged children and young adults, and their parents, caregivers and educators.
  • This position focuses on management of the Children’s Department, development and management of the children’s collection, related reference responsibilities, and community outreach.
  • The work is performed under the direction of the Library Director. The Children’s Librarian has supervisory responsibility over Library Associates and Clerical employees.
  • Work includes some nights and Saturdays.

Essential Functions:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations ofthe various types of work that may be performed.)

  • Responsible for the Children’s Department. Plans, organizes and implements services and materials for youth (aged birth through high school), educators, parents and caregivers, to instill a lifelong love of reading and learning.
  • Provides reader advisory and basic instruction for all ages, as requested, for print materials, Internet usage and computer programs, specifically appropriate to reading level and interest.
  • Provides educational support to school age children (home school, public and private classrooms), and educational organizations.
  • Gathers materials for teachers’ classroom use as requested.
  • Provides library tours, special story times and book talks.
  • Maintains an attractive and functional children’s area.
  • Plans, prepares and implements regular programs for children aged birth through high school.
  • Researches, evaluates, and manages the children’s collection by reviewing, selecting, ordering, weeding and maintaining all of the Children’s services materials.
  • Assists children in the use of the library, providing information services via the reference interview in person or by phone.
  • Plans, prepares, promotes and implements a summer reading program.
  • Promotes the use of and access to library services through technology and social media sources.
  • Attends professional meetings.
  • Consults and collaborates with peers in order to plan and develop children’s programs appropriate for the library.
  • Collects and compiles statistical data and pertinent reports about children’s services.
  • Other duties as may be assigned.

Required Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:

  • Knowledge of child development and the reading acquisition process.
  • Knowledge and appreciation of children’s and young adult literature, audiovisual materials, computer resources and other materials that constitute a balanced, relevant children’s collection.
  • Knowledge of reference materials and other library resources, which may serve the needs of children and their caregivers.
  • Good interpersonal skills in meeting with children, parents, staff and community.
  • Must be able to conduct multiple age story times or programs with sensitivity to the various needs of the audience and with age appropriate materials and activities.
  • Must be familiar with library tools for evaluating, acquiring and maintaining library collections.
  • Must know how to use electronic resources and other technology and social media sources to meet typical library needs, including operating personal computers, information databases, word processing, spreadsheets and electronic software.

The position requires a commitment to service excellence; the ability to see the big picture of the Library; the ability to work well with others in a team; the ability to provide leadership and plan, prioritize and focus on what is critical; commitment to lifelong learning; recognition of the value of professional networking; and the ability to remain flexible and positive in a time of continuing change.

Desired Education/Experience:

  • Graduation from an American Library Association accredited college or university with a Master’s Degree in Library Science with emphasis on Children’s services.
  • At least 3 years professional experience as a Children’s Librarian after receipt of MLIS.
  • Experience and enjoyment in working with children and knowledge of and interest in Children’s Literature.
  • The Children’s Librarian should have a thorough knowledge of library issues and techniques, and must be able to supervise and motivate others to provide excellent customer service.

Salary – $52,188.14 – $64,182.75

Application Procedure:

Applications will be accepted through August 21, 2015 at 4:30 PM

For further information, or to apply for the position, contact the Town of Agawam Personnel Office through the Town of Agawam website.

 

Professional Job Listings in New England Public Library Positions