Children’s Librarian, Old Lyme Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library, CT

Posted October 24, 2023

Description:

The Old Lyme Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library is looking for a dynamic Children’s Librarian to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the youngest members of our community. The Children’s Librarian will sustain and grow our wide array of youth programming, services, and collections— always with a mind toward expanding access and inclusivity. Successful candidates must be dedicated to inspiring youth and families to explore the world of literature, imagination, and learning.

Essential Job Functions

• Develops and maintains diverse collections for children through age 12.
• Develops and maintains parenting resources to foster the development of healthy children and
  families with strong early literacy skills.
• Creates and maintains an inclusive and imaginative space for children to explore and learn.
• Plans, develops, and executes a diverse array of children’s events, programs, and educational
  opportunities; may lead discussion groups and/or provide group instruction.
• Provides reference, technology, and reader’s advisory assistance to patrons of all ages in person,
  over the telephone, or via email using the library’s collections and electronic resources; provides
  referrals to other libraries and organizations. Assists patrons in the use of all library resources.
• Sustains and further develops partnerships with local schools and youth-related community
  groups. Coordinates with local schools to promote the library’s resources and summer
  programs for children. Collaborates with other staff to represent the library at community-wide
  events and initiatives.
• Prepares publicity for print and traditional and social media sources to promote children’s
  services and activities in coordination with other staff. Maintains displays and print
  communication within the Children’s Room.
• Provides written reports and data and assists the Director with policy development as it relates to children’s services.
• Participates in staff meetings and local and regional library meetings. Pursues professional development opportunities to stay current with new developments in library services to children.
• Implements all service policies and procedures.
• Works on special projects and other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge and understanding of public library philosophy, services, and programs—
  especially children’s services—including current technologies and trends.
• Knowledge and understanding of child and adolescent development.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to foster a positive environment
  among library staff, volunteers, and patrons.
• Ability to work with people of all ages—including young children, teens, and adults.
• Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate time sensitive events and resources.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
• Willingness to teach and learn new ways of doing things, including new technologies.
• Proven record of providing a high level of customer service.
• Strong commitment to public service and the principles of racial equity, inclusion, and social
  justice.
• Ability to understand, interpret, and implement library policies, procedures, and rules.
• Proficiency in desktop applications including MS Office and/or other graphic design programs
  and website software, and social medial tools.
• Skilled at using online databases and electronic resources. Experience with integrated library
  systems preferred.
• Ability to adapt to changing needs and resources and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Ability to maintain patron confidentiality.

Supervision

• The Children’s Librarian is directly responsible to the Director.
• The Children’s Librarian may supervise Library Assistants and Volunteers.

Physical Qualifications

Accommodations: Please note that reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with differing physical abilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

• Ability to perform duties in a busy office environment subject to continuous interruptions and
  background noises.
• Must be able to carry up to 20 lbs. and push/pull a loaded book cart weighing up to 200 lbs.
• Must be able to bend and stretch to reach low and high shelves.
• Must be able to stand for up to 3 hours.
• Vision and hearing at or correctable to “normal ranges.”

Education/Experience Requirements

MLS Degree from an ALA accredited school. MLS candidates with commensurate experience will be considered. Prior experience working in libraries and/or with youth preferred. Successful candidates must demonstrate practical knowledge of library functions, services, terminology, techniques, procedures, and standard tools.

Schedule, Compensation, & Benefits

Full-time, 35 hours per week, including evening and weekend hours. Starting salary $50,960 plus benefits.

How to Apply:

Email a cover letter and resume to Director Katie Huffman at [email protected] by Friday, November 17, 5pm.