Youth Services Librarian I Job at Alsip-Merrionette Park Public Library District

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, Full time, non-supervisory position

Schedule: 37.5 hours per week, requires evening and weekend hours.

Reports To: Youth Services Coordinator

Jobs Supervised: None – may train and oversee department volunteers; may assist in supervising support functions for shift.

Job Summary: The position focuses on the development and implementation of elementary aged-programs, outreach, and supporting digital literacy and the promotion of library resources.

Nature and Scope of Position: The principal responsibility of this position is to perform professional librarian work in the specific area of youth services.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Plan and present informative and enriching programs to children ages K-5th grade.
• Participate in outreach to schools, daycares, and community organizations, and at community events.
• Promote library resources and programs through PR and marketing.
• Provide reference, information and reader services to children and adults at the library.
• Encourage children and patrons to get library cards.
• Monitor the department space to ensure the safety of all patrons.
• Cultivate mutually beneficial partnerships with local organizations.
• Stay abreast of trends in education and district news; share information with staff as appropriate.
• Stay up to date on books, movies, technology and youth pop culture.
• Participate in staff, department, and other professional meetings related to job responsibilities, as assigned.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Ability to provide outstanding customer service.
• Professional demeanor and a team mentality essential.
• Passion for information, learning and engagement.
• Skills in decision making and creative problem solving.
• Ability to independently exercise judgement within established guidelines on matters relating to patron experience and inquiries.
• Ability to collaborate with staff to develop and implement long and short range plans.
• Ability to work independently, set priorities, adapt as needed and see projects through to completion.
• Proven ability to plan and execute successful programs.
• Ability to handle multiple activities or interruptions at once.
• Ability to deal calmly and effectively with a wide range of individuals, in some cases under busy conditions.
• Adaptable to changing situations.
• Ability to develop, create and analyze statistical reports consistently.
• Creative outlook with fresh ideas to engage patrons.
• Proven ability to connect with children and families of varying demographics and developmental needs.
• Proficient in the use of current library technologies.
• Patience and skills to provide training that enables patrons at all levels to understand and use technologies, products and services.
• Ability and desire to represent the library on community task forces, committees and at community & professional events.
• Effective oral and written communication skills in English.
• Fluency in Spanish language preferred.
• Must have a valid driver’s license with reliable & insured transportation.

Education and Experience:

• MLS/MLIS from an ALA-accredited school or Master’s degree in related field or two to three years of progressive library experience.
• Experience working in a school or public library.
• Experience working with children, caregivers and families.

Physical and Other Requirements:

• Must be able to move with patrons throughout the building to provide, explain, and interpret resources.
• Frequent sitting, moving, bending, stooping, lifting, and reaching.
• Must be able to push and pull library carts with materials.
• Must have access to transportation necessary to attend library-related meetings, events, and conferences.
• Vision for far and near.

Contacts: Patrons, volunteers, other library staff, vendors, and peers at other organizations.

Working Conditions: Normal Office conditions.

This is a full-time position with paid vacation, holidays, sick and personal time, insurance and retirement benefits. Schedule requires day, evening and weekend hours. Starting pay range: $42,334.50 to $62,848.50 ($21.71-$32.23/hour), depending on qualifications.

How to Apply:

To Apply: email cover letter, resume, and online application to Amy Andresen, Youth Services Coordinator at aandresen@zblibrary.org. The position will be open until filled.

Zion-Benton Public Library District is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.