Library Early Learning Center Assistant, City of Gloucester, (Gloucester, MA)

Posted August 27, 2026

Description

The Library Early Learning Center Assistant is a paraprofessional library position responsible for providing public service to young children under the age of 5 and their caregivers. Primary areas of public service are direct customer service, program coordination and delivery, outreach, collection development, and promotion. Work is of moderate complexity, involving the independent performance of moderately difficult tasks within established standards and prescribed procedures. Difficult and unusual matters are referred to the supervisor.

Responsibilities

Maintains an interactive early literacy and learning center that is conducive to fostering learning, discovery, imagination and social-emotional growth
Assists with the coordination and delivery of program activities and experiences for children under the age of 5
Conducts outreach and class visits to preschools, agencies and homebased daycares serving children under the age of 5
Coordinates with volunteers on reading programs that develop early literacy skills
Provides information, basic reference, and readers’ advisory to library users in direct consultation in person or by phone or email
Answers routine reference questions using electronic, print, or community resources.
Researches and recommends developmentally appropriate materials, manipulatives, and toys that meet assessment standards. Maintains the board book collection.
Promotes early learning resources and services through social media, flyers, community events, digital newsletter, and digital signage
Makes referrals to other social service resources for young children, as needed
Processes materials to designated locations and prepares bins for pick-up.
Sets-up timely book displays and bulletin boards
May assist staff with special projects and assignments as needed.
Checks library materials in and out.
Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

High School Diploma required, supplemented by some higher education coursework in early literacy or early childhood education.
2 years of relevant experience working in a library, preschool or other early childhood setting.
Verbal proficiency in Spanish and/or Portuguese.
Knowledge of child development, early learning principles and evidence-based practices
Experience with diverse communities and community organizations
Experience building relationships with other early childhood professionals to create a network of support for children and families
Experience presenting to an audience
Working knowledge and experience with computers, productivity software (Microsoft Word and Excel), web-based applications (Canva, Constant Contact); ability to learn new software programs is essential; strong internet search skills required.
Working knowledge of an Integrated Library System (ILS).
Able to be flexible and dependable; enjoys working with the public, can work independently.
Ability to work independently with initiative and judgement
Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to work effectively with others; demonstrated excellent customer service skills; excellent organization skills
Able to meet scheduling requirements of the library.
Excellent communication and writing skills.

Environmental/Physical Requirements

Ability to crawl, kneel and sit on the floor
Ability to work on a computer for extended periods of time
Frequently required to sit, talk, hear, walk and manipulate objects, tools or controls
Ability to frequently lift and move equipment and materials up to 15 pounds. Intermittently lift and move equipment and materials up to 50 pounds
Requires physical presence at work

Preferred Requirements

Familiarity with the “Every Child Ready to Read @ Your Library” model of early literacy library service and programming.
Experience conducting programs focussed on early childhood literacy for children aged 0-5 and their caregivers

Hours and Compensation

This is a part time 19.5 hours per week, temporary position through June 30, 2027 with the potential for renewal. $23.96 – $34.69 per hour depending upon experience.

How to Apply

Visit the linked address to see the full listing.

Qualified candidates should submit a resume and application to [email protected]