Under supervision and within the framework of the Library’s policies and practices, will assume responsibility for the effective execution of the Library’s programs of service to a diverse population characteristic to an urban setting with emphasis on children and perform professional work requiring application of substantial professional knowledge and experience.

Reports to:          

Branch Librarian or ranking staff member.

Supervises: 

As assigned, professional and non-professional staff members.

• Initiates, develops, plans, and implements the Library’s programs of service to children through personal consultations, reference and readers’ advisory services, outreach, and programs.
• Develops interactive relationships within a defined neighborhood and implements activities to stimulate the use of the Library’s resources by the community, especially through schools and other agencies that 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 work 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.
• Responsible for the development of the children’s book collection and managing the appropriate materials budget.
• Compiles annotated lists and bibliographies involving book and non-book materials.
• Recommends and/or plans changes in service or new services for children.
• Responsible for oral presentations and written reports on children’s activities within the branch library.
• Assists in training professional and non-professional staff.
• May be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the branch in the absence of the Branch Librarian or other ranking staff member.
• Actively participates in system-wide committees, training, and other professional activities.
• May be called upon to represent the Library on city-wide and state-wide committees.
• Performs other related and/or comparable duties as assigned.

• A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university. A master’s degree in library science from an accredited library school. Courses in children’s literature and children’s work are taken for credit from 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.
• Two (2) years of pertinent professional library experience or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training sufficient to indicate ability to do the work.
• Broad knowledge of Library policies, practices, and procedures; extensive knowledge of children’s literature, including bibliographic tools and sources pertaining to children’s literature and work; demonstrated knowledge of the techniques of programming for children; demonstrated interest in children and in library work with children; demonstrated ability and willingness to develop strong, interactive community relationships; demonstrated ability and willingness to assume responsibility and to carry out assignments independently.
• Proven oral and written communication skills, as well as the ability to search the Internet and other electronic databases.
• Demonstrated ability to work well with staff and the public; initiative, dependability, good judgment, tact, and courtesy.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.
• CORI - Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information check with the City of Boston.

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA/P-2

Hours per week: 35