Sample Job Description

JOB DESCRIPTION: Full-time vacancy available for an energetic, team-oriented Youth Services Librarian with a strong public service commitment. Provide library service and programming for and with young adults and those who work with young adults. Constant contact and collaboration with young adults (typically ages 12-18) including those with diverse backgrounds and abilities.

DUTIES:

• Conducts regular community needs assessments to identify teen needs, in order to created tailored services and programs to address identified needs.
• Provides prompt, courteous and direct assistance to all patrons with basic information regarding use of library materials, equipment, and services.
• Ensures the library's collections include relevant print and digital resources aimed at the specific interests and needs of the teens in the community.
• Curates content, including digital resources and special collections, for and with teen patrons, based on teen needs and interests.
• Adopts a connected learning approach to presenting programs, classes and events for and with teens so that they educate, inform and inspire.
• Plans, implements and evaluates library programs and services which fulfill the diverse educational, recreational and personal needs of local teens.
• Instructs teens and caregivers in information gathering, research skills and digital literacy skills.
• Leverages community experts, coaches and mentors for services and programs in order to meet teen need and interests
• Adopts a community engagement mindset and develops and maintains effective relationships with schools, community groups, agencies and non-profits that target youth in order to plan and deliver programs and services that meet local teen needs and interests.
• As opportunities arise, educate the public about the value of public libraries and the profession. Creatively promote library services and the profession.
• Coordinates daily activities of staff and volunteers assigned to teen services.
• Takes a leadership role in developing, implementing and evaluating the overall teen services program.
• Attends and participates in professional library conferences, seminars, and network committees; reads professional literature; attends and participates in staff meeting discussions.
• Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited program required.
• One or more years of professional experience in a library setting, with supervisory or administrative experience preferred.
• Experience in working for and with young adults (ages 12 to 18).

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS:

• Knowledge of developmental, recreational and educational needs of young adults.
• Knowledge of current trends in library services for and with young adults.
• Knowledge of standard library procedures, current information technology, Internet and database search capabilities.
• Knowledge of connected learning and ability to design programs that embed connected learning principles.
• Knowledge of best practices in teen services, including guidelines and standards published by ALA, YALSA and other recognized organizations.
• Knowledge of best practices in community assessment and engagement.
• Knowledge of effective practices in evaluation and outcomes measurement.
• Cultural competence skills.

ABILITIES:

• Ability to communicate effectively with others, orally and in writing, including through email.
• Ability to identify and translate young adult needs and interests into effective library services and programs.
• Able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, patrons, user groups, community organizations, volunteer groups and to serve the public courteously.
• Able to recognize and set priorities, and to use initiative and independent judgment in a variety of situations.
• Able to learn and stay current with emerging technology, including digital media.
• Must be able to lift and carry bags of books or boxes weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Must be able to speak distinctly to large groups.
• Must be able to drive a car and hold a valid driver’s license.
• Must be available to work evenings and weekends.
• Must possess physical mobility involving bending, lifting, reading, hearing.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Hiring managers may also want to consult these resources in preparation for interviewing candidates, in order to gauge an individual’s knowledge, skills, and qualifications:

• Core Professional Values for the Teen Services Profession
• Competencies for Librarians Serving Youth
• The Future of Library Services for and with Teens: a Call to Action
• Reimagined Library Services for and with Teens