Early Literacy Specialist

Do you have a passion for inspiring a love of reading in young minds? We’re looking for an enthusiastic Early Literacy Specialist to join our team and help nurture the next generation of readers at Warren‑Newport Public Library in Gurnee! This is a full-time, non-exempt position at 37.50 hours a week. The starting hourly rate is $24.00-$27.00 DOE. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Wednesday from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., and one weekend shift per month. Weekend hours are Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sunday hours are from Labor Day to Memorial Day. Sunday hours are paid at time and a half). Responsibilities Organize and lead early literacy initiatives with the development and delivery of engaging library programs for ages 0‑5. Develop, conduct, and support Storytime programming. Takes the lead in purchasing, cleaning, organizing, and maintaining materials and supplies for Coco’s Cove. Mentor and support programming for early literacy staff. Generate program ideas, identify trending topics, and develop program plans. Collaborate with the programming team to design program outlines, marketing materials, and promotional plans. Create program presentations in collaboration with early literacy team members. Coordinate program logistics, including scheduling, room reservations, equipment, and supplies for early learning staff. Conduct programs and events for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, ensuring a positive and engaging experience for participants. Join and support projects initiated by the WNPL Literacy Committee. Support Library Services department in early literacy purchasing. Attend community events to represent the library and engage with potential patrons. Contribute to the selection of materials and development of assigned collection areas, including Early Literacy Backpacks & Launchpad learning tablets. Provide excellent customer service to library patrons of all ages. Answer reference questions and assist patrons with research. Champion library efforts through positivity and encouragement of both coworkers and library patrons. Benefits Time Off: 10 Vacation Days 12 Sick Days 3 Floating Holidays 8 Paid Holidays Insurance & Retirement: Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance (library‑subsidized) $50,000 Paid Life and AD&D Insurance Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension plan (required enrollment) Optional Benefits: 457(b) Deferred Compensation Retirement Plan Decreasing Term Life Insurance Flex Spending Account Healthcare Dependent care Access to the Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) Casual dress code Access to a staff pantry Monthly staff events Requirements Education: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Education, Communications, Arts Management, or a related field). Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience working with youth in an educational or community engagement setting (or equivalent volunteer experience). Minimum 1 year of experience working in a library setting. Experience with and a passion for early childhood literacy initiatives. Proficiency in any of the following languages preferred: Hindi, Spanish, Tagalog. Required for Library Staff: Embraces Change and Continuous Learning: Thrives in a changing environment, readily adopts new technologies, and actively seeks opportunities to learn and grow. Cultural Competency: Demonstrates sensitivity and understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives to provide inclusive and welcoming service. Commitment to Professional Development: Actively participates in professional learning opportunities such as workshops, conferences, and online courses to stay current with library trends. Tools: Computers and peripherals (mouse, keyboard, etc.) Microsoft 365 (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams) Work Environment & Physical Demands: The role involves a mix of sitting, standing, and walking. Frequent interaction with the public is expected. Ability to lift and carry light materials (up to 40 lbs). We are committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals. Equal Opportunity Employer Warren‑Newport Public Library District is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, disability, marital status, military status, or any other legally protected category. Applications and resumes are accepted for posted positions only. Due to the volume of applications received, the Library is unable to respond to phone, email, or in‑person inquiries regarding application status. Warren‑Newport Public Library, Lake County #J-18808-Ljbffr