Youth Services Librarian (L1/L2), Fox Point Library, Providence, RI

Posted October 27, 2023

Description:

We are seeking to hire a Youth Services Librarian to work at our Fox Point Library. This unique and newly renovated library is housed in the lower level of the Boys & Girls Club on Ives Street. The library boasts a bright and cheerful outdoor courtyard area, perfect for outdoor programming, and is across the street from Vartan Gregorian Elementary School and the India Point Park pedestrian bridge. Additionally, the library is located in a walk-friendly neighborhood where eateries, parks, and shops are easily accessible. Fox Point Library provides library services to patrons of all ages, particularly children and families.

The ideal candidate will enjoy working with young patrons of all ages and will provide exceptional library service to youth, their families, and educators at schools and community- based partners. They must be enthusiastic about growing and developing makerspace opportunities at Fox Point, mentoring high school interns, and organizing and leading makerspace workshops.

Salary: $43,485 annual salary (L1)

$50,290 annual salary (L2)

Hours: Full-time 37.50 hours per week.

Posted: October 26, 2023

Deadline: External applications accepted until the positions are filled.

Duties:

The Youth Services Librarian will develop and implement programs that foster literacy, creativity, academic success, use of technology, social connection, and connected learning for

babies, preschoolers, and school age students (elementary/middle/high school). Youth Services Librarians focus on developing and implementing CLPVD’s summer reading program, leading and/or facilitating a diverse range of early learning and afterschool programs, building partnerships with neighborhood schools of all types, and innovating and sustaining the PVD Young Makers program (makerspaces across CLPVD). They work with the other Youth Services staff and divide and/or share responsibilities for serving each age group. Successful performance requires strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and a desire to create an open and inclusive library space for diverse users. They are responsible for creating and maintaining the Youth Services area with an open, inviting atmosphere for library users and building a collection that serves as both a mirror and a window into the diverse community CLPVD serves.

At the L-1 or entry level, the new Librarian gains experience and proficiency in providing programs and services for youth, receiving mentoring and support from colleagues and administrators. At the L-2 level, the Youth Services Librarian contributes to system-wide or other innovative initiatives, as well as serving as the lead in the library when the Supervisor is off-site.

Plans, develops and implements youth services for their libraries.
Delivers successful customer service by responding to the library needs of patrons promptly and attentively
Instructs youth in the use of the library, in conducting basic library research projects, and in information and media literacy.
Locates information to answer questions posed by children, their parents/guardians, and educators.
Reviews, selects, and maintains the collection of youth materials.
Shelves and shelf-reads the collection.
Coordinates and leads out of school activities including the Summer Reading Program, homework help, PVD Young Makers, and other opportunities.
Collects, maintains and analyzes library statistics.
Participates in community events and meets with individuals, community groups, and schools to promote use of the library.
Orients and trains college work-study students, summer helpers, and volunteers in direct service to youth.
Works with other CLPVD staff and administrators to plan and develop library service for youth.Is cognizant of patron needs and advocates for services that respond to their needs.
Maintains professional growth and development through seminars, workshops, and professional affiliations and other means to keep abreast of current and emerging trends.
Collaborates with other staff and safety ambassador to promote positive behaviors, to maintain order, and to create a welcoming library environment.
Contributes to program evaluation efforts.
Encourages children, teens and families to read and provides reading guidance.
Assists with circulation and adult services as necessary.
Provides coverage in other libraries as required.

L-2 Essential Functions

Serve as the Lead when the Supervisor is off-site: manages patron behavior challenges; facilities needs; security; and other situations requiring immediate attention.
Coordinates and manages scheduling, outside presenters and collaborators, and volunteers/interns when the Supervisor is out for any reason.
Joins and contributes to system-wide or statewide committees and initiatives, representing CLPVD.

Requirements:

Clear understanding of the mission, vision, and brand promise of Community Libraries of Providence.
Knowledge of diverse children’s and teen literature; ability to develop a collection catering to community needs and interests.
Ability to plan, implement, and follow through on independent projects, consistent with the goals and objectives of the Community Libraries.Listens to patron needs and shows flexibility and willingness to experiment with new ideas to meet the needs of the community.
Develops schedule of Maker programs, including open studio, workshops, and classes for patrons of all ages.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, community organizations, and the public.
Strong desire to work in a team environment and to collaborate inside/outside the library.
Ability to teach design thinking and support individualized learning.
Motivated to develop programs and opportunities for youth and adults (parents/guardians and educators) of diverse educational, economic, and cultural backgrounds.
Excellent verbal and written skills.
Comfortable working with various technology (i.e. Microsoft programs, Google Docs/Drive).Bilingual in English/Spanish is preferred.
Willing to travel between library locations, schools, and community based organizations to provide coverage, collaborate on programming, or to do outreach.
MLS from an ALA accredited library school.
A strong background in programming and in providing library services to youth and families from a culturally diverse community is preferred; related experience in a community-based organization will be considered. Fluency in English and Spanish will be prioritized.

Students encouraged to apply – Must be enrolled in an ALA accredited Master’s Program in Library & Information Studies; experience working in a related field, bilingual (Spanish/English), and/or candidates who have completed some graduate credits in library school will be prioritized. Librarians in Training have the opportunity to gain real world experience in an urban library with professional librarian mentors for support. Librarians in Training are paid as specialists until the MLIS degree is completed at which time they will be promoted to Librarian.

To Apply:

Send resume, cover letter and three references to:

Maria Melvin, HR Manager, [email protected], (401) 467-2700 x.1606.