Youth Services Manager, Midtown Carnegie Library, (Springfield, MO)

Posted September 17, 2026

Description

The Youth Services Department Manager leads and oversees all aspects of library services and programs designed for children and young adults. This includes developing and implementing age-appropriate programming, curating and maintaining the youth collection, and collaborating with local schools and community organizations to promote youth literacy and engagement. The Youth Services Department Manager also supervises youth services staff, fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for young library users, and stays current on trends and best practices in youth library services. This role requires strong leadership, creative program development skills, and a passion for promoting literacy and learning among children and teens.

Responsibilities

• Oversees and manages daily operations of the children’s and teen departments
• Supervises departmental staff and manages the department budgets
• Audit and approve time sheets for bi-weekly payroll
• Assists patrons with reader’s advisory, information and location of library materials
• Represents the Youth Services department at supervisor’s meetings, District Children’s
  Committee meetings and District Teen meetings
• Develops and supervises youth participation, such as youth advisory groups, teen
  volunteers, and opportunities for employment
• Develops Library services based on sound models of youth participation and development,
  allowing for social interaction, growth and learning
• Manages youth services at the branch, based on assessment and evaluation of the
  developmental needs and interests of youth in the community
• Maintains community partnerships with relevant organizations such as K-12 schools, Head
  Start, daycares, preschools, after school programs, etc. and should be aware of social
  services organizations
• Assists and instructs patrons in the operation of personal computers (PC’s) and other
  reference materials
• Assists with material selection and collection development
• Observes, plans, implements, evaluates and documents Youth Services programs and
  displays
• Works with staff to plan, implement and evaluate youth programs based on the
  developmental stages and needs of the target audiences
• Prepares departmental reports and correspondence as required
• Performs routine telephone reference and information work
• Performs computer data searches; proficient in using computers with Windows
• Organizes and manages Youth Services activities
• Must have excellent public speaking skills, ability to plan, organize and execute programs,
  building tours and meetings
• HR/Job Postings/ Youth Services Department Manager MID # 17.2627 9-10-2026 Until Filled Revised 9/16/2026
• Performs basic file keeping and clerical duties
• Interprets and implements the Library’s General Conduct Policy
• Consistently punctual for work and meetings. Completes assigned duties in a timely
  manner.
• Exemplifies professional attitude and demeanor while engaging constituents, including the
  ability to work and interact with others in a cooperative, pleasant, and constructive manner.
• This job description is not intended to be all inclusive; employee may be required to perform
  other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the Library.

Qualifications

Education/Experience

• MLS/MLIS from an ALA accredited university required (Consideration given if nearing
  completion and other requirements are met)
• 3 years public service experience
• 2 years of supervisory experience preferred
• Experience working with children and teens
• 2 years library experience
  Skills/Job Knowledge
• Ability to interact pleasantly, constructively and cooperatively with library patrons and staff.
• Excellent communications skills, oral and written
• Ability to effectively listen to and respond to patron inquiries
• Ability to perform basic library functions during times of high public usage
• Working knowledge of library ready reference tools, databases and youth literature
• Demonstrates artistic and creative ability in the development of youth programming and
  displays
• Computer and keyboard skills, to include Windows, word processing and spreadsheet
  construction
• Work with staff to plan, implement and evaluate youth programs based on the
  developmental stages and needs of the target audience

Hours and Compensation

$75,296.00 per year

How to Apply

Position open until filled.

This position requires an MLS or MLIS from an ALA accredited institution. To be considered for
this position transcripts must accompany your application.

Apply online at https://thelibrary.org/work.

Direct questions through e-mail to [email protected] or call 417-616-0589
Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm.