The Old Lyme Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library is looking for a dynamic Children’s Librarian to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the youngest members of our community. The Children’s Librarian will sustain and grow our wide array of youth programming, services, and collections— always with a mind toward expanding access and inclusivity. Successful candidates must be dedicated to inspiring youth and families to explore the world of literature, imagination, and learning.
Essential Job Functions
- Develops and maintains diverse collections for children through age 12.
- Develops and maintains parenting resources to foster the development of healthy children and families with strong early literacy skills.
- Creates and maintains an inclusive and imaginative space for children to explore and learn.
- Plans, develops, and executes a diverse array of children’s events, programs, and educational opportunities; may lead discussion groups and/or provide group instruction.
- Provides reference, technology, and reader’s advisory assistance to patrons of all ages in person, over the telephone, or via email using the library’s collections and electronic resources; provides referrals to other libraries and organizations. Assists patrons in the use of all library resources.
- Sustains and further develops partnerships with local schools and youth-related community groups. Coordinates with local schools to promote the library’s resources and summer programs for children. Collaborates with other staff to represent the library at community-wide events and initiatives.
- Prepares publicity for print and traditional and social media sources to promote children’s services and activities in coordination with other staff. Maintains displays and print communication within the Children’s Room.
- Provides written reports and data and assists the Director with policy development as it relates to children’s services.
- Participates in staff meetings and local and regional library meetings. Pursues professional development opportunities to stay current with new developments in library services to children.
- Implements all service policies and procedures.
- Works on special projects and other duties as assigned.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge and understanding of public library philosophy, services, and programs—especially children’s services—including current technologies and trends.
- Knowledge and understanding of child and adolescent development.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to foster a positive environment among library staff, volunteers, and patrons.
- Ability to work with people of all ages—including young children, teens, and adults.
- Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate time sensitive events and resources.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
- Willingness to teach and learn new ways of doing things, including new technologies.
- Proven record of providing a high level of customer service.
- Strong commitment to public service and the ability to adhere to the ALA Library Code of Ethics
- Ability to understand, interpret, and implement library policies, procedures, and rules.
- Proficiency in desktop applications including MS Office and/or other graphic design programs and website software, and social medial tools.
- Skilled at using online databases and electronic resources. Experience with integrated library systems preferred.
- Ability to adapt to changing needs and resources and manage multiple responsibilities.
- Ability to maintain patron confidentiality.
Supervision
- The Children’s Librarian is directly responsible to the Director.
- The Children’s Librarian may supervise Library Assistants and Volunteers.
Physical Qualifications
Accommodations: Please note that reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with differing physical abilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
- Ability to perform duties in a busy office environment subject to continuous interruptions and background noises.
- Must be able to carry up to 20 lbs. and push/pull a loaded book cart weighing up to 200 lbs.
- Must be able to bend and stretch to reach low and high shelves.
- Must be able to stand for up to 3 hours.
- Vision and hearing at or correctable to "normal ranges."
Education/Experience Requirements
Master’s degree in Library Studies/Science from an ALA accredited school or other related field. MLS candidates with commensurate experience will be considered. Prior experience working in libraries and/or with youth preferred. Successful candidates must demonstrate practical knowledge of library functions, services, terminology, techniques, procedures, and standard tools.
The Library provides health insurance with employee contributing 10% of their personal premium (employee covers 100% of additional family members) + a 6% 403(b) retirement contribution after the completion of 1 year of employment.
Currently enrolled MLS students are encouraged to apply.
Old Lyme is a coastal community in New London County, CT with approximately 7,000 year-round residents and a sizable seasonal summer population. You can learn more about the community here: https://www.exploreoldlyme.com/
To apply, email a cover letter and resume to Director Katie Huffman at khuffman@oldlymelibrary.org by Friday, July 25, 5pm.