Teen & Adult Services Librarian (2), Rochambeau Library, Providence, RI
Posted December 6, 2023
Description:
CLPVD is looking to hire a Teen & Adult Services Librarian to work at their Rochambeau Library. The ideal candidate will enjoy working with youth ages 11 and up, and adult library visitors. They will provide exceptional library service with a welcoming and knowledgeable approach.
Rochambeau Library is located on Hope Street and serves the residents of Providence’s East Side. Hope Street is a walkable neighborhood surrounded by eateries, shops, and parks and is always bustling with activity. Rochambeau Library is one of the busiest libraries in Rhode Island, and its children’s room is the seventh busiest department in the state. This open and inviting library boasts a new, beautiful outdoor classroom for youth programming. Additionally, the unique and well-attended adult, teen, and youth programs keep their loyal patrons engaged and entertained. Some of these outstanding and unique programs include outdoor music concerts during the summer months, writing courses, Queer Umbrella, and an open makerspace studio. The library has a bright and sunny reading café where patrons can help themselves to a free cup of coffee.
Position Description:
Working under the supervision of CLPVD Library-based Supervisor or Systems Coordinator, the Teen & Adult Services Librarian provides library service to youth ages 11 and up, their families, middle/high school educators at schools and community based partners, and adults. At the L-1 or entry level, the new Librarian gains experience and proficiency in providing programs and services for teens and adults. At the L-2 level, the Teen & Adult Services Librarian contributes to system-wide or other innovative initiatives, which go beyond the delivery of expected services, as well as serving as the lead in the library when the Supervisor is off-site.
Teen & Adult Services Librarians develop and implement programs that foster literacy, academic success, use of technology, work/career advancement, social connection, and connected learning. A primary focus will be working to recruit youth and adult participants, community based artists/educators, and volunteers to ensure the success and continuous growth of the makerspace programs. The Teen & Adult Services Librarian will be proficient in the basic use of all maker space equipment and may lead some programming and/or facilitate open studio time for teens and adults.
Successful performance requires strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and a desire to create an open and inclusive library space for diverse users. The Teen & Adult Services Librarian is responsible for creating and maintaining the Teen and Adult Services area and collection with an open, inviting atmosphere for library users.
Essential Job Functions:
· Plans, develops and implements teen and adult services for their library.
· Delivers successful customer service by responding to the library needs of patrons promptly and attentively
· Locates information to answer questions posed by teens and adults.
· Reviews, selects, and maintains the collection of teen and adult materials.
· 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.
· 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 and adults.
· Works with other CLPVD staff and administrators to plan and develop library service for teens and adults.
· Builds a successful collaborative relationship with the Youth Services Specialist and/or Librarian.
· Is cognizant of patron needs and advocates for services that respond to their needs.
· Provides adult reference and leads adult programs.
· Assists with circulation services and children’s services as necessary.
· 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.
· Provides coverage in other libraries as required.
L-2:
· 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.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
· Clear understanding of the mission, vision, and brand promise of Community Libraries of Providence.
· Knowledge of diverse teen and adult 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.
· 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 teens and adults 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 a plus.
Additional Requirements:
· Willing to travel between library locations, schools, and community based organizations to provide coverage, collaborate on programming, or to do outreach.
· Covers and provides services in two areas of the library, teen services and adult services, if the two sections are distinct in the particular library.
Experience and Training
MLS degree from an ALA accredited institution with documented coursework in teen librarianship and/or experience working with teens. 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.
Library students who meet the following qualifications are 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 L-1.
How to Apply:
Send resume, cover letter and three references to:
Maria Melvin, HR Manager, [email protected], (401) 467-2700 x.1606.