The Lansdowne Public Library

JOB DESCRIPTION: Head of Children’s Services

Full Time plus full benefits

Updated January 2023

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The Head of Children’s Services works under the direction and supervision of the Library Director, providing quality programs, collection development, reference, and outreach as it pertains to children and caretakers in the community, in a professional and courteous manner. A flexible schedule requiring evening and weekend hours is required. 

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Responsibilities include:

• Coordinate and oversee program planning and service delivery for children and caregivers, and assist with teen programs and services

• Develop and conduct programs for children and caregivers, which encourage reading, viewing, and listening skills, and the use of library facilities and materials

• Encourage increased use and circulation of library materials by advocating for the use of the collection

• Collection development including selection, purchase, weeding and maintenance of children’s materials

• Plan, manage and oversee annual summer learning program

• Ensure and maintain the neat and clean appearance and order of the children’s collection, seating, toys, and materials

• Provide training, supervision, and leadership to teen volunteers

• Participate in near-term and long-range planning for children’s services, including budget forecasting

• Maintain good communication and relationship with, and participate in relevant committees and activities of, the Delaware County Library System

• Coordinate program planning with local school librarians, teachers, and administrators to provide complementary services to students

• Serve as liaison to other community agencies serving children and participate in community outreach via programming, representing the library at community events, and promoting the library in person and online

• Prepare publicity materials for children’s services and resources

• Maintain awareness of trends and developments in youth services, issues affecting children, and general library services

• Attend meetings and participate in professional library organizations

• Act as a member of the library’s leadership team, serving at times as supervisor on site

• Participate in the library’s programs team

• Prepare reading lists for school and community distribution

• Participate in special projects and programs as needed

• Provide general library service at the circulation desk as needed

• Reference services and general patron assistance as needed

• Other duties as assigned.

 

Requirements, Knowledge & Abilities:

 

Requirements – ALA-accredited MLIS or equivalent degree, with at least 2 years of library experience.  Experience serving children a plus.

Knowledge – General practices and procedures, library classification systems and automated circulation systems, Microsoft Office software and computer equipment, delivery of information and early literacy instruction, and the principles of library practices and procedures. Also, must understand emerging and common pre-existing technologies, and be able to perform basic troubleshooting. Knowledge of infant to middle grades literature, literacy, trends, and needs is crucial.

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Abilities – A courteous and tactful demeanor, effective verbal and written communication, ability to establish and maintain working relationships with patrons, employees, vendors, DCLS staff, Borough employees, local schools, and the public. Ability to implement policy and procedure, to exercise initiative and judgement in completing tasks, to maintain confidentiality, and to address staff and patron issues respectfully. Additional ability to train employees, stand for long periods of time, lift and move up to 25 pounds, and move materials from both lower and higher shelves. Close attention to detail despite interruptions, and ability to set priorities, meet deadlines, and delegate effectively. Must maintain daily operations while also planning for the future. Flexibility and ability to effectively prioritize are necessary. Proficiency in Spanish a plus. 

 

Compensation: Starting at $40,000 with excellent benefits

To apply, please email resume and cover letter to michaeladiaz83@gmail.com. Applications will be accepted until this position is filled. Please, no telephone inquiries.