Children’s Librarian, Ipswich Public Library, (Ipswich, MA)

Posted September 15, 2026

Description

Do you believe story time can be magical? That the right book can change a kid’s whole day? That libraries are about a lot more than books?

If you answered YES, we want to meet you!

After 14 strong years at the helm, the Ipswich Public Library’s Children’s Librarian is retiring. So we are looking for a creative, enthusiastic, community-minded Children’s Librarian to lead our Children’s Department next and continue to make the library a place where kids and families love to learn, explore, create, and connect.

This is a great opportunity for a librarian who loves working with children, thrives on creativity and collaboration, and is ready to put their ideas into action.

Why Ipswich?

Because we believe a great library is about more than shelves full of books.

It’s about the child who discovers their favorite author.
The caregiver who finds a welcoming place to spend an afternoon.
The family who comes for story time and stays for a program.
The curious kid who asks a million questions.
And the librarian who says, “I know exactly what you should read next.”

If you’re ready to bring creativity, leadership, and a little library magic to Ipswich, we’d love to hear from you.

Come help us make the library a place where every kid can say:

“This is my library.”

Apply today and join the Town of Ipswich team!

Responsibilities

As our Children’s Librarian, you’ll be the person helping bring the Children’s Department to life. You will:

Build and curate an engaging, diverse, and exciting children’s collection — including choosing what stays, what goes, and what everyone needs to read next!
Dream up, plan, promote, and lead amazing and engaging programs for children and families.
Lead and support the staff and volunteers who work in the Children’s Department.
Help kids and caregivers find their next favorite book through reader’s advisory and reference services.
Help patrons navigate library technology, online catalogs, databases, and other digital resources.
Coordinate staff schedules to make sure the Children’s Department is ready to welcome patrons throughout the week.
Build partnerships with Ipswich schools and other community organizations.
Help promote library programs and services through social media and other outreach.
Manage program and materials budgets and keep an eye on the details.
Stay current on children’s literature, youth services, technology, and the latest trends in library programming.
Serve periodically as a Building Supervisor, helping ensure a safe, welcoming environment for staff and patrons.
Participate in professional organizations, regional meetings, workshops, and networking opportunities.

In other words: you’ll help shape what the library experience looks like for the youngest members of our community.

Qualifications

We’re looking for someone who is:

Creative, energetic, and genuinely excited about working with children and families.
A strong communicator and collaborator.
Organized and comfortable juggling multiple priorities.
Confident leading a busy department and supporting a team.
Knowledgeable about children’s literature and current youth services trends.
Comfortable with technology, social media, online resources, and mobile devices.
Able to manage a budget and keep projects moving.
Someone who can take an idea from “Wouldn’t it be cool if we…” to “Look what we just created!”

Education & Experience

Master’s Degree in Library Science from an accredited graduate library school of recognized standing; and
Three to five years of experience in public library service, including relevant youth services experience.

Hours and Compensation

This position requires one scheduled evening per week and one Saturday approximately every three weeks.

Schedule: 37.5 hours per week

Salary: $34.22 – $37.98 (in 5 steps)

How to Apply

Closing: First review of applications will be September 28. Open until filled.

You should apply by visiting the Town of Ipswich Employment website. You can find the full job description there as well as the Town of Ipswich Employment Application.

You application should include a letter of interest, a resume and a completed Town of Ipswich Employment Application. You can apply online or you can email your application materials to: [email protected]

We’re looking forward to hearing from you.