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Youth Reference Librarian, Castlewood

Inspire Discovery, Nurture Growth, Lead with Heart

Are you a collaborative and service-oriented librarian who thrives in youth-focused environments? Do you believe libraries can be joyful, inclusive spaces for families, children, and lifelong learners?

Arapahoe Libraries is seeking a Youth Reference Librarian to champion children's services at Castlewood Library. You'll provide expert guidance to families and caregivers, mentor staff, and contribute to a welcoming library experience that reflects the richness and diversity of the community.

This role focuses on youth programming, community engagement, reference services, and team mentorship. You'll ensure our libraries continue to serve as trusted, dynamic resources for learning, creativity, and connection.

About the Role

Based at Castlewood Library, a bustling branch known for its diverse patron base and energetic children's area, you'll serve children ages 0-12, their families, caregivers, and educators. As part of the branch leadership team, you'll act as a Person-in-Charge (PIC), guiding day-to-day operations while helping shape strategic youth services across the district. You'll work closely with Early Literacy and Youth Services Librarians to support programming, outreach, and professional development.

Key Responsibilities

Patron Services

• Provide welcoming in-person reference, advisory, and technology services with a focus on children and families
• Respond to materials requests from educators, caregivers, and parents
• Deliver targeted advisory services and support digital literacy for children and adults
• Maintain a strong floor presence, especially in the children's area
• Act as a mentor and training resource for staff providing youth services

Programming and Outreach

• Support and substitute for storytimes and youth programming as needed
• Create engaging informal programs and activities in the children's area
• Collaborate on outreach efforts, including school visits and group tours
• Promote district-wide youth events and initiatives

Mentorship and Training

• Mentor and train staff to expand their skills in working with children and families
• Provide shadowing opportunities and support cross-functional collaboration
• Share best practices and participate in district-led youth service training

Collection and Space Stewardship

• Help manage and curate the children's collection and interactive displays
• Maintain Family Place spaces and toy areas in collaboration with Early Literacy Librarians
• Provide input on collection development and merchandising

What You Will Bring

Youth Service Expertise: Experience engaging children ages 0-12 and their caregivers in meaningful library services

Customer-Centered Approach: Committed to responsive, inclusive service in a dynamic, public-facing environment

Mentorship Mindset: A natural guide and collaborator, eager to build others' skills and confidence

Operational Leadership: Ability to act as Person-in-Charge and support daily branch needs

Equity-Focused Perspective: Demonstrated commitment to inclusive service, community responsiveness, and cultural awareness

Alignment to ALD Core Values: You embrace collaboration, innovation, and equity in your everyday work

Qualifications

Required:

• Master's degree in Library and Information Science; or at least two years of related experience and enrollment in an accredited MLIS program within six months of hire
• Bachelor's degree
• Interest in youth services and ability to work with children ages 0-12
• Strong customer service, reference, and technology skills
• Ability to mentor, train, and support colleagues in youth services
• Intermediate Microsoft 365 skills and willingness to learn new tools

Preferred:

• Experience working or volunteering with children
• Familiarity with advisory and technology support in a library setting
• Spanish, Russian, or Arabic language skills

Who We Are

At Arapahoe Libraries, we are a forward‑thinking, inclusive organization committed to enriching lives and strengthening our community. Guided by our core values-collaboration, equity, and innovation-we believe in the power of curiosity and lifelong learning. Our motto, "Let's Find Out," reflects our spirit of exploration and shared discovery.

Let's Find Out Together

This is more than a job, it's your chance to shape how library services evolve to meet the needs of diverse and growing communities. If you're passionate about empowering young minds, nurturing family learning, and helping libraries grow into the future, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today!

Inclusion and diversity are part of our values at Arapahoe Libraries.

Qualified applicants who represent the diversities of the communities we serve are encouraged to apply.