Youth Services Library Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY

This is responsible technical and clerical work in the Township Library. Responsibilities include a wide variety of duties in the operation of the Library including circulation, reference, reader’s advisory, programming, material selection and weeding, and staff supervision. The Youth Services Specialist works under the general supervision of the Head of Youth Services and the Director of the Library. Work involves some initiative and independent judgment and is regularly reviewed at completion.

Work is performed during regularly scheduled hours and may involve additional hours as needed.

This position is nonexempt under FLSA.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Performs circulation procedures including checkout, check in, reserves, patron registration, and overdues.
2. Answers reader’s advisory and informational questions for patrons in person, by telephone, or email.
3. Acquires a familiarity with child development, children’s literature, and literacy development.
4. Develops and presents in-house and outreach programs that are appropriate to meet community needs. Plans and conducts activities for school and group visits. Assists in planning and implementation of the summer reading program.
5. Supervises the work of library assistants and volunteers in the absence of a librarian or the circulation coordinator.
6. Creates effective displays to highlight the resources of the Library.
7. Assists in the preparation of book lists and promotional materials.
8. Assists in material selection and weeding.
9. Maintains the general appearance and order of the Children’s Floor including shelf-reading and overall appearance.
10. Supervises and monitors behavior of children and teens on the Children’s Floor.
11. Participates in conferences and meetings to keep abreast of the latest professional developments.
12. Maintain harmony among staff.
13. Other tasks as assigned by the Head of Youth Services.

QUALIFICATIONS

Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. General knowledge of paraprofessional library principles, methods, techniques and procedures.
2. General knowledge of child development and children’s literature. Proven ability to work with children effectively.
3. Working knowledge of library classification systems and basic office procedures.
4. Computer skills including using Microsoft Office products, various online databases, email, and library automation software.
5. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
6. Ability to work in a team environment.
7. Ability to adjust to the needs of each patron.
8. Ability to work independently and to handle multiple tasks and interruptions.
9. Ability to carry out moderate tasks with accuracy critical to the success of the task.
10. Ability to clearly and effectively communicate orally and in writing in the English language.
11. Ability to plan, organize and complete assigned tasks in a timely fashion.
12. Ability to organize and maintain records and files.
13. Ability to analyze and prepare reports.
14. Ability to operate the tools and equipment listed below.
15. Ability to maintain confidentiality where necessary.

Education and Experience

1. A bachelor’s degree in education or related field and at least one year of library experience or equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Clearances

1. Secure FBI Clearance, Child Abuse Clearance, Criminal Clearance before start date; complete Mandated Reporter Training once hired.

EQUIPMENT USED

1. Personal computers and printers, photocopier, fax machine, calculator, laminator and automobile.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

1. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is often required to sit, walk, use hands and fingers to operate equipment, reach and/or bend at the knees.
2. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move lightweight materials such as books and program supplies.
3. The ability to talk, hear, and see, as in reading, computer operation, location of library materials, and focusing on staff and patrons are essential. The employee must be able to drive a car.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

1. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
2. The noise level in the work environment ranges from quiet to moderately noisy.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

1. Formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interview and reference check, observation of technical procedures performance.
2. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
3. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Revised January 2025