ALA JobLIST | Jobs in Library & Information Science & Technology

Print

Cambridge Public Library

Youth Services Staff Librarian

Description

HOURS OF WORK:                

37.5 hours. Initial hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays 8:30am – 5:00pm, and Thursdays from 10:30am-7:00pm. The position also works every third Saturday from 8:30am-5:00pm instead of Wednesday that week. Candidates are expected to have a flexible approach to hours and will be assigned hours and locations to meet the needs of the Department and the Library. 

UNION AFFILIATION:         CPLSA, Local 4928 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Assists the Manager of Youth Services with the day-to-day operation of the Youth Services Department, including the dissemination of information and materials to children, parents, teachers, and others, and the acquisition and maintenance of the necessary resources to do so. 

Performs duties necessary to the daily operation of the Youth Services Department 
Provides reader’s advisory, library instruction and orientation, and reference services to individuals and groups  
Performs functions related to circulation control, including issuing new library cards, placing holds, check-ins, checkouts, inquiries, renewal, and data entry

Provides exceptional and engaging service to the public  
Assists in implementing the library collection development policy in accordance with the allocated departmental budget, while selecting, merchandizing, evaluating, maintaining, and weeding children’s materials 
Compiles booklists 
Works closely with the Manager of Youth Services and other youth services staff to plan, implement, and manage innovative programs to meet the needs of children of all ages, as well as parents, caregivers, teachers, and others. Evaluates programs and analyzes successes and failures.  
Participates in direct library outreach to groups at out-of-library sites, including schools, preschools, day care centers, youth centers and other community groups. Maintains good public relations with these groups and agencies.

Conducts outreach (e.g. book talks, programs, and library instruction/orientations) to groups at out-of-library sites

Prepares displays and merchandizing materials 
Assists in compiling statistics 
Attends system-wide meetings of youth services librarians for in-service training and/or to plan and implement system-wide children's programs, when possible  
Operates audio-visual equipment in the presentation of library programs

Uses online social media to promote and implement library services 
Participates in assigned committees 
May assume supervisory responsibility for Youth Services Department in the absence of the Manager of Youth Services 
Commitment to doing all work through a lens of diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. 
Any other duties required for the good of the service area and the library

Requirements

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: A master's degree from an accredited school of library science is required. At least two years of experience in providing direct service to children in a library or educational setting is also required. In exceptional instances, specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted for part of the educational requirement.   

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES: 

Knowledge and understanding of the library’s mission, goals, and objectives 
A broad knowledge and appreciation of children’s literature and children’s media, including a thorough knowledge of classic and contemporary children’s literature from pre-school through high school. A broad knowledge of digital and multimedia materials and electronic resources, including social media and communication tools 
Ability to work as a collaborative team member and maintain strong communication with Youth Services staff 
Ability to adapt seamlessly to each working area  
Knowledge and experience in planning programs appropriate for the age levels and capabilities of target audiences

Knowledge of current issues and legislation affecting children in the community and in society 
Good communication skills, including the ability to work well and communicate constructively with both children and adults 
A broad knowledge of the intellectual, emotional, psychological, and physical development of children and adolescents is essential 
A dedication and respect for children and an ability to establish rapport with them  
Experience working with children individually and in group settings

Working knowledge of urban public library concepts and techniques 
Knowledge of current technology, technological trends, and operation of related equipment 
Flexibility, imitative, energy, patience, and tact to deal effectively with the public  
Excellent people and reference skills  
Familiarity with online circulation systems and online searching is required

Creativity   Resourcefulness   Patience   Initiative   Enthusiasm   Maturity  
Adaptability and dependability to work well in a team situation, and flexibility in staffing situations

 WORK ENVIRONMENT: Works in assigned area, including office areas, training rooms, and various library and off-site locations, as necessary. Normal office exposure to noise, stress and interruptions in a lively, urban public library. Attends and participates in continuing educational programs designed to keep abreast of changes in profession. 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Applicants submit both your resume and letter of interest by 8pm on the closing date via email to: employment@cambridgema.gov or to Personnel Dept, Room 309, City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge MA 02139. Fax 617-349-4312.

THE CITY OF CAMBRIDGE IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. WOMEN, MINORITIES, VETERANS, MEMBERS OF THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY, AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY. CITY OF CAMBRIDGE RESIDENTS ARE ESPECIALLY ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.

Job Information