The North Adams Public Library is looking for the right person to build on the great work of our previous Youth Services Librarian. If you’re passionate about making connections, empowering young people and families, and like to think creatively about solving problems, we want to talk to you!
Title: Youth Services Librarian
Salary Grade: S-13
FTE: 1.0
Reports to: Library Director
POSITION SUMMARY
The Youth Services Librarian works closely with the library director to ensure the effective and responsive operation of the North Adams Public Library. The librarian oversees part-time staff and volunteers in the youth services department. The ideal candidate is passionate about connecting with and empowering young people and their families by developing and delivering engaging youth programming, and has a desire to promote and nurture the habits of reading and lifelong learning.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
- Manages daily operation of the youth services department, including supervision, training, and scheduling of part time staff and volunteers.
- Identifies, develops, and implements departmental goals in consultation with the director.
- Curates the youth services collection, making decisions on purchasing, collection maintenance, and deselection, to maintain a relevant, balanced collection. Manages cataloging and processing of new materials.
- Develops, coordinates, publicizes, and implements youth programming, including story times, summer reading, crafts programs, etc., online and in person.
- Develops and maintains community relationships, and coordinates with schools and community partners to provide services and develop programming.
- Writes correspondence, press releases, social media posts, policies, procedures, and department-specific grant applications; procures and administers grants.
- Provides training and assistance to patrons and staff in the use of the library catalog and online resources, and provides in-person and remote reference and reader’s advisory services to youth, caregivers, and staff.
- Creates and maintains department-specific content on the library web page, and contributes to the library’s social media presence, with a focus on outreach to teens, caregivers, homeschool families, etc.
- Ensures proper supervision of youth and general public safety; ensures proper response to emergency situations as necessary.
- Tracks departmental statistics and provides director with statistical reports as needed.
- Attends informational and instructional meetings and workshops related to library operations and youth services.
- Performs additional supervisory and other duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
Minimum Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science, Education, or related field
- Experience: Three or more years of library experience working with children and youth
Preferred Qualifications
- Education: Master’s Degree in Library Science, Education, or related field
- Experience: Two or more years of library experience working with children and youth
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing. Demonstrated ability to analyze, problem solve, and set priorities.
- Customer service experience.
- Working knowledge of child development.
- Facility with technologies that further the goals of the library. Proficiency with productivity tools, including word processing, spreadsheets, calendars, etc. Familiarity with, or willingness to learn, library software (preferably Evergreen/CW MARS), Facebook/Instagram administration, Canva or other publishing applications, LibGuides.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of patron records.
- Demonstrated ability to work with the public and with co-workers.
- Willingness to work with other library departments as a team to ensure staffing coverage and professional service to all library users.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
The work is performed in an office environment, and in common space open to the public. The work may require motor skills for activities such as using office equipment, including but not limited to telephones, personal computers, handheld technology, and other office equipment. May be required to lift objects such as files, office supplies, library materials, and equipment weighing up to 60 pounds. May need to re-shelve, read, and retrieve materials at floor level and overhead. Essential position functions require ability to routinely read materials for general understanding and analytical purposes and ability to view documents on a computer screen.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Review of applications will begin immediately. Interested candidates are invited to submit an application along with cover letter, resume, and references to:
Michelle Ells
City Hall
10 Main Street
North Adams, MA 01247
or by email to mells@northadams-ma.gov
The City of North Adams, Massachusetts, is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer.
– Posted January 26, 2021