Children's Librarian

Position Type: Professional

Library Type: Public

Description

The Children's Librarian provides circulation, processing, statistical, reference and research services to patrons, teaches library skills to children, prepares and presents programs and displays, plans and implements story hours and the Summer Reading Program and selects materials for the Children's Library. This position works closely with the Library Director assisting with planning, organization and implementation of library programs and policy, and training and supervising Children's Library staff and volunteers. The Children's Librarian is appointed by the Library Director and operates under his or her general guidance and direct supervision to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures.

Typical Duties

The following are some of the typical duties of the Children's Librarian, and are not exclusive of other related duties which may be required from time to time.

• Perform circulation duties
• Accept and process donations
• Assist patrons in general, and with specific reference requests
• Respond to patron inquiries, problems and complaints and keeps Library Director informed as appropriate
• Oversee Children's Library collection, including reviewing and choosing books and other materials and preparing them for circulation; consulting with patrons and outreach workers
• Maintain records, order materials, write reports and publicity notices, handle cash transactions
• Present seasonal, topical displays with posters, books, videos, etc.
• Prepare and program Summer Reading Program for elementary school students, plan and program story hours, make presentations to school classes and other groups
• Attend professional meetings and partcipate in activities relevant to library services; represent library to School Department, public and other organizations
• Interact and coordinate with employees, the School Department, the Library Board of Trustees, elected officials, and the general public for overall management effectiveness with respect to other programs and policies of the library and the town

Specification

Knowledge of current library standards, practices and procedures, ability to exercise sound judgment in the process of following policies and procedures, demonstrated personnel and project management skills, excellent oral and written communications and customer service skills, and ability to develop and maintain working relationships with other employees, public officials, the Library Board of Trustees, volunteers and the general public.

Qualifications

Appointees to the position of Children's Librarian must possess the following qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in Library Science, Child Development, Education or related field from an accredited college or university; Master of Library Science degree preferred - Two (2) years experience working in a library, preferably with supervisory experience - Working knowledge of library practices and procedures OR - Any equivalent combination of education and experience which demonstrates possession of the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities

Other Considerations

• Knowledge of reference, cataloging, circulation services, library administration and collection development practices
• Computer literacy and experience with Microsoft Office programs
• Ability to set up and use audiovisual equipment
• Flexibility of motion- up and down; a lot of assisting staff and patrons; ability to lift 23 pounds.