Youth Services Librarian

Library System/Company Name
Darlington County Library System
Job Description

The intent of this listing is to give a general indication of the level of difficulty and responsibility of this position. The Youth Services Librarian is a dynamic, creative, innovative, outgoing, positive, and flexible individual who is a leader willing to meet and engage the residents of a diverse community, provide exceptional customer service, and create an outstanding library, especially for children and teens. Excellent communication skills, a passion for working with people, and a love of libraries and technology are essential.

Job Summary

The Youth Services Librarian will plan and implement the Lamar and Society Hill Branches’ programs and activities for children of all ages and their care-givers, coordinate the development, deployment, and maintenance of the children’s collections, and work with the other branches and our partners to deliver children’s programs and services. The Youth Services Librarian will work at the Lamar and Society Hill libraries on scheduled days. Perform a variety of related public library duties as assigned.

Report to the Lamar and Society Hill Branch Managers.

Essential Functions

1. Create, plan, and implement programs and activities for children of all ages and their care-givers on various topics in two libraries, through digital media, and outside via outreach on location at schools, day cares, and Head Starts.

a. The Lamar / Society Hill Youth Services Librarian will work in-person scheduled days at each branch during the week.

b. Personally conduct/deliver programs and activities.

c. Supervise all children’s program and children’s activity volunteers

2. Supervise the youth services area of the library and create an inviting environment to attract children and their caregivers.

3. Coordinate with the branches the development, deployment, and maintenance of the children’s collections, programs, and services.

a. Plan and implement Summer Reading programs in conjunction with other Youth Services Librarians and State Library staff.

b. Cooperate with grant opportunities that are system-wide in application.

4. Develop the children’s collection of print and non-print materials.

5. Provide reference and reader’s advisory services.

6. Speak to organizations involved with children on topics of children’s literature, reading, and library materials and services.

7. Promote the use of library services and programs through news releases to local newspapers, radio and television stations, schools, etc. 

8. Create visual displays and printed materials to promote library programs and services.

9. Create booklists and finding resources for children and care-givers to promote the use of library materials.

10.Provide a balance of outreach programming for children through in-person and digital children’s events and story times.

11.Order supplies and materials needed for the implementation of children’s programs and activities.

12.Promote use of library collections, services, and programs to children and caregivers through:

a. News releases to local newspapers, broadcast media, schools, etc.

b. Social media, including Facebook, etc.

c. Art, visual displays, video, audio, etc.

d. Printed materials, such as booklists and finding guides.

13.Keep abreast of current developments in the field of children’s librarianship through professional organizations, attendance at meetings, etc.

14.Prepare various narrative and statistical reports to reflect the status and growth of children’s services.

15.Participate in and supervise the overall library operations on assigned evenings and weekends in rotation.

16.Coordinate and lead tours and activities for community agencies serving children.

17.Recommend policies and procedures regarding youth services.

18.Assist in special projects as needed.

19.Perform other related duties as assigned or required by the Branch Manager and/or Director.

$28,000-$30,000 negotiable w/State Benefits

Qualifications

Qualifications

1. Master’s degree in Library Science from an American Library Association accredited institution with at least two years of experience (preferably in youth services) in a library, OR

2. Bachelor’s degree (preferably in education) with at least three years of experience (preferably in youth services) in a library, OR

3. Any combination of education and at least five years of library experience (preferably in youth services) and progressive responsibility.

4. Holds or is eligible for S.C. State Library Professional Certification or Provisional Professional Certification.

5. Possess a valid drivers’ license.

6. Has or can readily acquire knowledge of public library computerized circulation procedures and regulations (Polaris)

7. A criminal background check will be completed on selected applicant if a current one (less than 3 years old) is not on file.

Requirements

1. Language, Communication, and Numerical Aptitudes

a. Maintain confidentiality of customer and Library records.

b. Interpret and apply laws, regulations, and policies.

c. Read and understand a variety of documents and reports.

d. Prepare written documents and reports, using the proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar.

e. Communicate effectively with co-workers, supervisor, other county employees, patrons, etc. with poise, voice control, and confidence.

f. Knowledge and command of vocabulary and correct word choice for clear communication.

g. Knowledge of digital and social media platforms.

h. Follow verbal, written, and/or visual instructions.

i. Utilize mathematical formulas, add and subtract totals, multiply and divide, utilize decimals, and determine time and weight.

2. Physical Requirements

a. Coordinate hands and eyes in utilizing office equipment and other objects in the library environment, in preparing and repairing books, operating projectors and laminating machines, etc.

b. Operate a variety of automated office machines which may include but is not limited to a computer, copier, cash register, OPAC, receipt printer, etc.

c. Ability to lift up to thirty-five pounds. Exert up to thirty-five pounds of force and/or to push, pull, or otherwise move loaded book trucks or other such objects.

d. Requirements are in excess of sedentary work; position involves walking, standing, reaching, stooping, bending, climbing, balancing, etc.

e. Maintain regular and reliable attendance. Work a flexible schedule that includes working evenings and weekends (Saturday and Sunday) as assigned.

3. Interpersonal Temperament

a. Ability to deal effectively with people in a variety of circumstances, some of which can be stressful.

b. Must be adaptable to performing with maturity and fairness when confronted with disagreements or criticism.

c. Able to handle an emergency calmly and reassuringly.

d. Must be flexible and able to multi-task.

4. Additional Duties as Assigned

a. The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by an individual working in this job.

b. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

How to Apply

Apply in the Darlington County Administrator's Office, 1 Public Square, Room 210 (Courthouse), Darlington, SC 29532 or obtain an application online at www.darcosc.com; then mail to above address or email to gwinburn@darcosc.net

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER COMPLY WITH ALL FEDERAL AND STATE LAW AS THEY APPLY TO EMPLOYMENT

RESUMES WILL NOT BE ACCECPTED WITHOUT A COMPLETE APPLICATION

City
Lamar & Society Hill
State
South Carolina