YOUTH SERVICES LIBRARIAN
DEFINITION
Performs professional duties in the Youth Services Department under the supervision of the library director.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB
- Keeps abreast of new materials and selects books and other materials
within a prescribed budget for preschoolers through high school age
children. Keeps the collection up to date and attractive by conscientious weeding.
- Assists children, parents and adults who work with children in selecting
library materials through reader's advisory and programs where appropriate.
- Assists children in finding various sources of information for school assignments
and personal needs and instructs students in information gathering and research skills.
- Plans ongoing series of children's programs, to be offered at various times, including weekends, evenings and
school vacations, and works to attract young adults to the library by offering services and programs
with teen appeal. Improves service in response to changing needs.
- Plans and coordinates story hours for young children and purchases program
materials.
- Plans and coordinates reading clubs for children and teens which stimulate interest in books.
- Develops a good working relationship with local schools through visits, book talks and programs for classes
who visit the library.
- Assesses the community regularly to identify needs, tastes and resources.
- Promotes literacy and provides materials that reflects the ethnic diversity of the community.
- Supervises the children's room staff and volunteers.
ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED
- Assists patrons, especially children and teens, in using computers,
microfilm and microfiche machines, CD ROM workstations, etc.
- Prepares age appropriate reading lists.
- Takes responsibility for the appearance of the children's room and of the young adult area, including the
condition of the shelves, displays and general atmosphere of the room.
- Promotes programs and services through press release flyers and other public relations channels.
- Assists other departments as needed.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES
- Knowledge of children, parents, children's literature, popular reading
trends, websites and electronic media that support a relevant children's collection.
- Ability to plan, coordinate and direct work.
- Ability to create a pleasant, helpful atmosphere.
- Ability to relate tactfully and courteously with the public and to maintain effective working relationships with other employees.
- Ability to exercise initiative, and to stimulate interest and encourage participation in reading and other library activities.
- Ability to reach out to the schools and other youth based groups in the community.
- Ability to find and implement alternative sources of funding such as grants.
- Knowledge of current events, popular, local and youth culture.
QUALIFICATIONS
- An ALA accredited degree or a Professional Librarian's Certificate
issued by the New Jersey Department of Education.
- Continuing education in areas of youth services and related technology.
- Active participation in professional library associations.
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