Middle School Librarian, The Spence School (New York, NY)
Posted March 19, 2025
Job Summary:
The Middle School Librarian is responsible for advancing a library program that fosters the intellectual development of each student in grades 5-8. In close collaboration with the Head of Library and Information Services, library staff, faculty and administration, the Middle School Librarian develops and implements an integrated information literacy curriculum, maintains a well-rounded library collection and enthusiastically promotes reading and the spirit of inquiry.
Responsibilities:
- As a Teacher, the Middle School Librarian teaches skills related to responsible research, project creation, reading and the appropriate application of information technology.
- Work with classroom teachers to incorporate information and research skills into the Middle School curriculum, collaborate with teachers to develop resources and inquiry-based units and activities, and create Libguides and other materials in support of ongoing research projects
- Work with Head of Library Services to develop and refine Middle School research scope and sequence
- Participate in professional development initiatives
- Encourage, through formal and informal channels, reading for pleasure and for learning
- Help students navigate the digital landscape safely and strategically by teaching website evaluation strategies and critical thinking skills
- Participate in Middle School faculty meetings and events
- Serve as a Middle School Advisor
- Perform Middle School duties as required
- As an Information Specialist, the Middle School Librarian curates and provides access to information and assists students and faculty in identifying developmentally appropriate information resources.
- Systematically develop, organize and maintain a diverse collection of information resources, selecting and evaluating books, e-books, audiovisual resources and web-based resources
- Inform teachers, students and administrators of new materials, equipment and services that meet their information needs
- Create forums for middle school students to share reading recommendations and reviews
- Provide access to the library collection and digital resources through the management of an accurate and efficient organization and retrieval system
- Assist users in identifying, locating and interpreting information and assures access to information via the library website and catalog system
- Prepare Middle School summer reading list
- Recommend student-level literature to teachers and collaborate with teachers in adding to the school’s literature and reading collection in print and online
- Serve at the reference and circulation desk in the Middle and Upper School library, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the school community
Qualifications:
- Possesses an ALA-accredited MLIS or MLS degree and a bachelor’s degree
- Has sustained academic and/or school library experience, with emphasis on experience with children and adolescents
- Possesses experience designing and implementing library and information literacy curriculum tailored to middle school learners
- Finds joy in working with children and in school life
- Demonstrates cultural competency and skills engaging with and learning from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences
- Demonstrates ability to foster sustained collaboration and professional growth within a team
- Enjoys a commitment that extends beyond the classroom, including contributions to the larger school community
- Has a demonstrated interest in and facility with information technology
- Has a strong interest in and knowledge of children’s and young adult literature
- Demonstrates skills in communications and interpersonal relations within and across multiple constituencies
- Approaches work with optimism, energy, kindness, and a sense of humor
- Demonstrates proficiency in library automation systems, digital resource management, and other relevant technologies that manage and deliver library services.
- Possesses outstanding communication, interpersonal, organizational skills, and flexibility
- Has a desire for consistent and ongoing professional development and training
Spence is committed to an equitable program and a diverse faculty and student body. We therefore actively seek candidates from diverse backgrounds.
Hours & Compensation:
- Salary Range: $67,675.00 – $134,227.00 Salary/year
- Full time position to begin August 2025
How To Apply:
For more information on the position and to apply, please visit the official job posting, linked here.