Brief Job Description (essential functions of job):

Under supervision, and within the framework of Library policies and practices, to participate in services to a diverse population characteristic of an urban setting with emphasis on service to children and to perform professional work requiring application of professional knowledge of literature, bibliographic sources and services with a concentration on children.

Supervises: As assigned, professional and non-professional staff members.

Under supervision performs the following:

• Assists in the development, planning and implementation of the Library’s program of service to children through personal consultations, reference and readers’ advisory services, outreach and programs.
• Participates in the development of interactive relationships within a defined neighborhood and in the implementation of activities to stimulate community use of the Library’s resources especially through schools, and other agencies which serve children and their families.
• Plans and conducts comprehensive programming for toddlers, preschoolers and school age children such as story hours, book talks, craft programs, puppetry, book discussion groups and summer reading programs.
• Performs readers’ advisory services and difficult or involved reference for the general public.
• Provides instruction to increase patrons’ skills in the use of book resources and electronic databases.
• Manages program funds assigned to children’s services.
• Participates in the development of the children’s book collection and manages the appropriate materials budget.
• Assists in the compilation of annotated lists and bibliographies involving book and non-book materials.
• Responsible for oral presentations and written reports on children’s activities within the branch library.
• May be responsible for day-to-day operations of the branch in the absence of the Branch Librarian or other ranking staff member.
• May participate in recommending and/or planning changes in service or new services for children.
•  Actively participates in system-wide committees, training and other professional activities.
• Performs other related and/or comparable duties as assigned.

• A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university and a master’s degree in library science from an accredited library school. Courses in children’s literature and/or work, taken for credit, at an accredited library school. Storytelling courses and/or experience desirable. In exceptional instances, specialized education, training and/or experience, may be substituted for part or all of the educational requirements.
• Knowledge of children’s literature including bibliographic tools and sources pertaining to children’s literature and work; knowledge of the techniques of programming for children; interest in children and in library work with children; willingness and ability to develop strong interactive community relationships; willingness to assume responsibility and carry out assignments independently; good oral and written communication skills as well as the ability to search the Internet and other electronic databases; ability to work well with staff and public; initiative, dependability, good judgment, tact, courtesy
• Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job
• Residency - Must be a resident of the City of Boston upon the first day of hire
• CORI - Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information check with the City of Boston.

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA - P1

Hours per week: 35