Children's Librarian

Description

Under the supervision of the Youth Services Coordinator, the Children’s Librarian plans, develops, and conducts engaging library programs for children ages 0–12. Responsibilities include providing reader’s advisory and reference services, promoting library resources, maintaining a welcoming and engaging children’s area, and developing outreach initiatives in collaboration with community partners. This position also provides library services and resources to parents, caregivers, families, and educators throughout St. Tammany Parish to support early literacy, learning, and child development.

Requirements

Essential Job Functions

• Serves as a specialist in children’s literature and reference services.
• Leads programs for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children.
• Collaborates with children’s and teen services staff to develop programs and booklists.
• Provides outreach services to area daycares, preschools, schools, after school programs, camps, and other community groups.
• Teaches young library patrons basic library skills and effective use of library resources.
• Responds to reference questions and assists patrons in locating accurate and relevant information.
• Trains professional librarians, paraprofessionals, and support staff in library procedures.
• Assists the Youth Collection Development Librarian with collection management.
• Assumes supervisory responsibilities in the absence of designated personnel.
• Serves as emergency manager in any location within the library of the system, as needed.
• Performs all library branch duties and activities as required.
• Works nights and weekends.
• Acts as supervisor in the absence of the branch manager and circulation manager.
• Performs other duties and assignments as designated by management.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Possess a knowledge of all library materials, including books, magazines, references sources, audio/visual, online sources, and adult materials appropriate for children.
• Understand the literature and information needs of children at all developmental stages.
• Demonstrates the ability to plan and conduct programs for children ages 0-12, that reflect their developmental needs, interests, and the goals of the library.
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills along with the ability to communicate effectively with children and recognize their needs.
• Demonstrates skill in leading children in craft projects and hands-on activities.
• Possesses creativity to support engaging programs and activities.
• Maintains a professional demeanor when interacting with patrons of all ages and staff
• Demonstrates computer proficiency, including the ability to use the library’s integrated library system.
• Provides courteous, respectful, and responsive service to patrons and staff.
• Exercises independent judgement when interacting with patrons to ensure a positive experience and resolve any issues that may arise.
• Possesses knowledge of library rules, regulations, and procedures.

Working Conditions Work is performed primarily in a library setting. Noise levels are generally quiet but may increase during library programs and activities.
Physical Requirements Must the ability to lift about 25 pounds, push, bend, and reach as needed. Work is performed primarily while sitting at a desk or computer or while standing at a counter for extended periods of time. Physical exertion may be required to replace or retrieve materials form shelves, high and low. Sufficient vision or other powers of observation are essential to permit the employee to read and sort library materials and observe and review the work of others.
Education, Training, Experience

• Master’s degree in library and information science by an ALA-accredited library school
• Experience working in a public library or management experience is preferred but not required
• Must have a valid driver’s license