Youth Services Librarian [MO1A]
Job Title: Youth Services Librarian
Department: Library
Supervisor: Director of Library
Job Status: Non-Exempt
Definition: This is a professional library position with the Secretary of State’s Office with responsibility for youth services within the library. The Youth Services Librarian supervises services to children and teenagers and schools under the guidelines of the National Library Service and is responsible for developing the library collections for youth. The position also assists with publicizing library and its services.
Job Functions and/or General Responsibilities:
Responsible for reader’s advisory, reference and program services for children, teenage and college student patrons
Responsible for promoting services to all schools (public, parochial, and private) in the state, explaining services available and procedures for registering for and renewing services according to National Library Service policies
Plan and implement a summer reading program for youth which is accessible to all reading levels and abilities, provides pleasant, positive reading experiences, and encourages youth to read daily
Produce semi-annual newsletter for youth
Responsible for developing and managing those parts of the library collection for children and teenagers, including selection, acquisition, subject coding, weeding, NLS copy allotment, and expenditure of materials budget
Supervise the input of basic data into the library’s computer catalog of holdings and performance of other clerical tasks such as typing spine labels and inventorying
Work with the Director and outreach committee to develop, implement and evaluate outreach strategies
Promote service to library patrons, agencies, organizations, and the general public through speaking engagements, exhibits, workshops, radio and television interviews, etc.
Work with the Director, State Librarian, and Communications Officer to develop newsworthy releases regarding services
Develop and prepares content for youth and schools sections of website and makes suggestions for improvements and additions to website in general
Work with the National Library Service to reach, maintain, or exceed service standards
Watch current trends in services for youth provided by other libraries for the blind to glean ideas for additions and improvements to library services
Maintain knowledge of children’s and young adult literature and services by reading professional journals and attending conferences and workshops
Recommend policies and policy changes to the Director and State Librarian
Prepare recommended reading lists and subject bibliographies
Maintain, with clerical assistance, special catalogs of large print and print/Braille holdings for distribution to interested patrons
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and other appropriate office computer applications
Knowledge of children’s and young adult literature
Ability to exercise initiative and independent judgment
Ability to work independently
Ability to train and supervise clerical and technical staff
Knowledge of online services, library automation, and electronic information resources
Ability to identify and analyze needs of the youth services program and its patrons, construct and implement programs which respond to those needs
Ability to function effectively as a leader of or participant in work teams
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to work closely with patrons, staff and the public in a positive manner
Qualifications:
Masters Degree in Library Science from an American Library Association accredited program is required. A minimum of three years experience in a responsible, professional position as a department or program director or equivalent experience is required. Experience in youth services is preferred. Ability to travel to state and national meetings is necessary.
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