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Head of Children’s Services, Stevens Memorial Library, North Andover, MA

Posted June 9, 2016

The Stevens Memorial Library seeks to fill the full-time (37.5 hours a week) Head of Children’s Services librarian position. The Head of Children’s Services oversees library services for patrons from birth to 5th grade, their parents, teachers, and caregivers.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Performs various tasks requiring a broad knowledge of children’s literature including special awards and areas, professional bibliographic sources, and principles of information delivery and services to children. Keeps abreast of children’s literature across formats: existing and new, including print, audio, video and electronic.
  • Plans, develops and implements a variety of programs and services including story times, book discussions, summer reading events and activities, book talks, etc., in conjunction with other Children’s Services professional staff, such as an early literacy librarian or shared school services librarian.
  • Children’s Collection Development manager: responsible for all Children’s Services materials in a variety of existing and new formats. Includes evaluation, selection, purchasing processes, and budget of the Children’s Collection, using professional tools and resources. Keeps this collection up-to-date through weeding and knowledge of changing community needs and interests. Oversees cataloging and organization of materials in this collection.
  • Oversees and provides library instruction within the Library, such as school visits, and outreach, such as visits to schools, day care centers and nursery schools, home schoolers, etc. Works closely with the public school system and other organizations to advance literacy.
  • Effectively uses and promotes the library’s collections in new and existing formats.
  • Provides reference and readers’ advisory services to children, parents, teachers and caregivers. Creates finding aids such as bibliographies and LibGuides, recommended reading lists, etc.
  • Provides excellent customer service to the public in person and over the phone and interprets library services and policies to patrons in a clear, consistent and courteous manner.
  • Collects, maintains and provides analysis of statistics related to Children’s Services. Prepares regular reports for the Director / Assistant Director. May assist in the preparation of other reports.
  • Generates publicity for children’s library services through various mediums, print and electronic, such as displays and exhibits, flyers, brochures, newsletters, newspaper and cable, and social media.
  • Maintains a working knowledge of library resources and an awareness of new resources and technologies.
  • Actively participates in staff development and training opportunities when appropriate and embraces opportunities to learn in a changing environment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR PERFORMING ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Broad knowledge of children’s literature, bibliographic sources and principles of information delivery and services to children across various formats.
  • Commitment to excellent customer service with demonstrated enthusiasm, patience and flexibility when working with children, parents, teachers and caregivers.
  • Knowledge of search techniques using print and electronic resources and an ability to instruct others in their use.
  • Proficiency in current and emerging trends in library technologies (equipment and their applications).
  • Experience using a library automated system and programs; office applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation applications; and social media and web development resources.
  • Ability to create positive working relationships and collaborate successfully with co-workers; ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
  • High degree of flexibility and ability to multi-task and frequently change focus in order to meet the varying needs of library users and the dynamic needs of public library service.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education: Master’s in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree from  an American Library Association accredited library school with a concentration in children’s services.

Experience: 3-5 years experience in children’s library services, preferably in a public library. Minimum 2 years experience in a supervisory role.

Physical Requirements: Ability to carry books (up to 20-30 lbs), push book carts (up to 150 lbs), bend, stretch, grasp, etc. to retrieve library materials; ability to view computer screens for extended periods and to operate computers, photocopiers, printers and other office-type equipment.

Schedule: 37.5 hours a week including at least 1 evening and regular weekend (Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 1:30-5pm) in rotation from Labor Day through Memorial Day.

Compensation:
Librarian II (S-13) $22.23 – $26.62 in 8 steps

Position is subject to the terms and conditions of the Town of North Andover’s AFSCME – Professional Librarians collective bargaining agreement: (http://www.townofnorthandover.com/Pages/NAndoverMA_WebDocs/lm1316.pdf)

Deadline: Anyone interested in the above position must email a cover letter and resume to:

Kathleen Keenan, Library Director c/o Karen Consoli at [email protected]

Position is available July 18, 2016.

Position is open until filled.

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