Librarian 3- Early Learning Specialist

Summary

Responsible for identifying and implementing early learning strategies and programs for youth and their caregivers. Leads staff in building early learning programs and knowledge throughout the library system.

Typically researches, develops, and implements programs related to early learning as they relate to in-house library programming and to needs determined by community engagement. Conducts workshops for parents and caregivers on topics that relate to early learning or to library resources that support young children’s learning. Provides mentoring and training for new librarians and coaches librarians in programming activities that enhance learning outcomes for young children.

Employee knows and understands work requirements and completes tasks without direction. Employee has independent decision-making opportunities, in more diverse and complex situations. Activities are executed independently. Training responsibilities are met while operating under little or no supervision. Provide leadership and staff development support as assigned. Requires judgment and interpretation of general instructions. Minimal level of supervision is provided, generally for problem resolution. May provide guidance to other employees.

Responsibilities

1. Researches, develops, and implements programs and initiatives associated with early learning outcomes for youth, parents, teachers, and caregivers.
2. Coaches all librarians in programming techniques and activities that correlate to early learning outcomes.
3. Develops in-library and outreach services and strategies for youth; participates in programming to meet community needs.
4. Proactively identifies and analyzes emerging trends and technologies, and employs creative thinking to implement new solutions or procedures.
5. Represents the library at offsite meetings as assigned by the Family Engagement Supervisor or member of Administration.
6. Provides reference and reader’s advisory services to children, their parents, educators, and the general public.
7. Any and all duties as assigned.

Requirements

1. Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science, Education or related field preferred.
2. Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood or Elementary Education preferred -OR- Bachelor’s Degree combined with 5+ years relevant library experience required.
3. Understands theories of infant and child development and learning and current best practices in a public library or school/classroom setting.
4. A minimum of two years professional experience working effectively with assigned age-group in a public library, school/classroom, or equivalent setting. Experience in the Ohio education system preferred.
5. Knowledge of Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards preferred.
6. Ability to effectively work, mentor, and maintain good working relationships at all levels.
7. Ability to organize people and activities and motivate others.
8. Ability to set clear objectives, monitor and evaluate program impact, and see opportunities for collaboration and integration, particularly in system-wide initiatives.
9. Excellent public speaking and communication skills, both verbal and written.
10. Strong customer services philosophy.
11. Organizational skills to keep all work current; excellent attention to detail.
12. Strong knowledge of library policies and procedures.
13. Nature of work requires effective public speaking skills, an ability to communicate effectively in formal and informal interactions, and flexibility in adapting to settings when presenting workshops off-site.
14. Travel to other library branches and community outreach are required.
15. The majority of work is performed in the community with occasional time in a general office/library environment. Availability for extended or non-traditional hours as needed to perform job duties.
16. Participation and attendance at promotional events and off-site meetings required.
17. Able to reach, bend, climb, squat, lift 25lbs, push up to 50lbs, and stand for long periods of time.

Work Schedule

• Must be willing to work days, evenings, and Saturdays (rotating shifts).
• Must be willing to work at the various locations throughout our Mahoning County system.
• Full-time hours are generally 40 hours per week.
• Travel is required.
• Availability for extended or non-traditional hours as needed to perform job duties. Participation and attendance at promotional events and off-site meetings may be required at managements discretion.

PLYMC is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. PLYMC is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department at employment@libraryvisit.org.

For questions pertaining to this job or others, please email us at employment@libraryvisit.org.