Children’s Librarian, Watertown Free Public Library, (Watertown, MA)

Posted August 20, 2025

Job Description

The Watertown Free Public Library is looking for a full-time Children’s Librarian for our busy, mid-sized library. The children’s department is staffed by four full-time librarians that serve children from birth to 12 years along with their caregivers. In a typical week our children’s librarians can expect to lead storytimes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers; answer reader’s advisory and reference questions; create and deliver innovative programming for elementary aged students; develop and maintain a top-rate collection of children’s materials; and collaborate internally within the library and externally with community organizations to provide the highest standard of library service in the region.  

Position Duties

• Public Service
  • Readers’ Advisory
  • Reference
  • Programming
  • Library instruction, including training of the public on library technologies
  • Promotes the library’s services to children, parents, and caregivers to the community, e.g.
    school visits, press releases, library tours, fliers, calendars, website content, etc.
• Materials and Equipment
  • Collection development, including selecting and weeding
  • Basic PC and printer troubleshooting
  • Compilation of departmental statistics
• Other
  • Limited supervision of clerical staff and/or pages as assigned
  • Attend professional meetings at direction or with permission of supervisor
  • Arrangement of displays and exhibits
  • Assist in planning, organizing, and implementing library services
  • Special projects and/or other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• MLS from an ALA accredited and recognized school or equivalent experience
• Specific coursework and concentration in Children’s Services or demonstrated interest and
  experience in Children’s Services.
• Thorough knowledge of principles and practices of library work with children.
• Demonstrated commitment to excellent public service.
• Experience with and knowledge of automated library systems and Microsoft Office
• Demonstrated flexibility and ability to work as a member of a team

Hours & Compensation

• This is a full-time, 37 hours/week, union position.
• The City offers an excellent benefit package which includes pension, deferred compensation, health insurance 80% City paid premium, four weeks paid vacation, sick, personal, and holidays; flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and more.
• Schedule requires a minimum of one evening per week and one Saturday shift in a regular rotation. Starting salary is $33.80/hour. Full salary range is $33.80 – $44.59.

How to Apply

To apply, email cover letter, resume, and list of three references in one PDF file to Theresa Maturevich, Assistant Library Director at [email protected]. Position is open until filled. Priority is given to applications received by 9/2/25.

The City of Watertown is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

Full job description available online at: https://www.watertownlib.org/441/Employment