GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision, the Children/Youth Librarian I is responsible for collection development, cataloging and processing for the demographic group (birth to 18 years of age). The position provides age appropriate materials for children and to encourage programming and other programmatic services to enhance the adoration of reading. Independent judgment, initiative, tact, and courtesy are required. Work evaluation is conducted by review of plans, programs, reports, and in conferences.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Exercises direct supervision over paraprofessional, technical, clerical, and volunteer staff.

IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Provides subject matter expertise and understands best practices for cataloging and processing of materials from birth to 18 years of age. 

Maintains the children’s and young adult library collections by selecting age appropriate books and materials and replacing older titles as appropriate while maintaining budgetary guidelines.

Works with Children’s Librarians in the Abilene Public Library to guarantee appropriate coverage of children’s materials across the system.  

Understands age appropriate children’s catalog, social media, digital media, databases and technological equipment and services to enhance the library experience for users.  

Provide reference and individual reader’s advisory guidance to children, parents, teachers, and others interested in the resources of the library.     

Compile, prepare, and maintain reports, records, and statistics.  Submit monthly report of library activities to supervisor for distribution to library administration.

Travel to other branches of the Public Library system and other City of Abilene departments to assist with programming and branch coverage assignments.

OTHER JOB RELATED DUTIES

Perform other job related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

Principles and practices of contemporary library operations as applied in a public library setting.

Print and online resources to maintain knowledge of children's literature and current trends in selecting and ordering materials for juvenile collections and program resources for a diverse environment.

Library collection classification and selection tools and techniques, as well as the principles and practices of office management, work organization, and supervision skills.

Online electronic databases and current technologies for the purpose of statistics reports, library procedures and promoting library resources and programs for children.

Physical, mental and emotional development of Children including their reading interest levels.

Skill to:

Knowledge of cataloging standards in a shared automated library system.

Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, with co-workers and the public.

Ability to present programs and materials to the public, both internally and externally.

Skill in the operation and use of hardware and peripherals plus standard office software which includes databases and presentation programs, along with standard Microsoft and G-Suite products.

Analyze problems and recommend practical solutions.

Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including work with area librarians, teachers and educators providing instruction.

Participate in grant writing to assist with program funding and to supplement library needs.

Perform basic duties in other areas of the library or outreach locations as needed.

Operate audio-visual equipment including sound systems, projectors and electronic gaming devices.

Ability to:

Supervise, train, and direct technicians and clerks to copy catalog, process and check-in new materials.

Make appropriate changes to catalog records to adequately reflect age levels, subject headings and placement in collection.

Maintain an awareness of the safety needs associated with juvenile patrons and exercise good judgment when dealing with children and parents to maintain a pleasant learning environment for the entire family.

Maintain memberships in professional and regional library associations; attend professional meetings and conferences; and provide training to staff for the continued library development.

Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, both internally and externally.

Follow and embrace the City of Abilene Core Values – Respect, Integrity, Service Above Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Lead, manage, and perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

Experience and Training Guidelines:

For positions with more than one level, all listed requirements at the lower levels are required at the higher levels. Any combination equivalent to experience and training to provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be qualifying.  Knowledge, skills, and abilities may be obtained through:

Experience:

One (1) year of experience in the field of children's literature and/or early childhood education, preferably in a public library setting is required.

Education/Training:

A Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or a Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA accredited college/university is required. 

Training or education that includes an emphasis on childhood or early childhood service is preferred.

License or Certificate:

A valid Texas Driver’s License, the ability to attain a valid Texas Driver’s License within ninety (90) days of employment, or a military waiver is required.      

Special Requirements:

Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment:

With or without accommodation, the “X” indicates the overall strength demand of the position during a typical workday:

            ­­___     Sedentary – lifting of no more than 10 pounds

            ___     Light – lifting no more than 20 pounds; carrying up to 10 pounds

            _x__   Medium – lifting no more than 50 pounds; carrying up to 25 pounds

            ___     Heavy – lifting no more than 100 pounds; carrying up to 50 pounds

            ___     Very Heavy – team lifting over 100 pounds; carrying more than 50 pounds

Physical Demand Codes:  The following describes whether or not the position is expected to exert the physical demands listed during a typical workday as well as the overall frequency of the task:

Codes for how often:

N         =          No

E         =          Extensive (100 – 70% of the time)

M         =          Moderate (60 – 30% of the time)

I           =          Infrequent (20 – 10% of the time)

A         =          Almost Never (<10% of the time)

Code / Task

_I__    Standing

_E_     Sitting

_I_      Walking

_A_     Lifting

_I_      Carrying

_I__    Pushing/Pulling

_N_     Overhead Work

_E_     Fine Dexterity

  A_     Kneeling

_A_     Crouching

_A       Crawling

_A_     Bending

_A       Twisting

_A_     Climbing

_A_     Balancing

_E_     Vision

_E_     Hearing

_E_     Talking

___     Other:  _____________________