Pay:

• Hiring Range: $1,744.00 - $2,180.40 biweekly
• Pay Range: $1,744.00 - $2,616.80 biweekly

Education and Experience:

• ALA (American Library Association) accredited MLS (Master’s of Library Science degree).
• At least 2 years previous experience working in a school or public library.
• At least 1 year experience working directly with the public.
• A valid State of Indiana Librarian Certification, Level 3 obtained within three years of hire as a condition of employment.

Hours:

• Full time, 40 hour workweek.
• Evening and weekend work as required.

Essential Job Functions

The Early Literacy Librarian provides direct help to children and their caretakers and leads early literacy services systemwide. Under the direct supervision of the Youth Services Manager and with an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the Early Literacy Librarian will:

1. Create and implement early literacy initiatives for the SJCPL system.
2. Advise, recommend, and assemble materials, resources, and information sources for patrons and organizations. Create displays, lists, reports, and related materials to provide resource awareness and accessibility.
3. Help patrons at the Youth Services desk. Assist children and caretakers with finding age appropriate materials. Provide resources to complete homework assignments and research projects.
4. Create and provide activities and experiences for children, such as crafts, scavenger hunts, and grab-and-go kits.
5. Connect patrons digitally by helping them use a variety of devices and technologies.
6. Participate in collection maintenance activities. Keep abreast of cultural, library, and publishing trends for children.
7. Develop, maintain, and provide programming to the public related to early literacy.
8. Monitor trends in early literacy best practices. Make recommendations for service changes to optimize the users’ experience. Provide systemwide early literacy staff training and lead early literacy staff committees.
9. Actively participate in community initiatives and outreach. Take part in library initiatives, projects, and teams as well as professional organizations and conferences.
10. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Spanish language skills preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as strong organizational skills.
• Public service orientation and commitment to excellent and genuine customer service.
• Demonstration of character and integrity in all situations while upholding SJCPL’s ethical standards.
• Practical experience and proficiency with computers, including the Internet, Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Windows, Mac OS, and communication technologies.

• Physical agility and strength to bend, reach, lift, and move library materials (20-25 lbs.) and to stand for long periods of time.
• Creativity and patience in working with young children. Enthusiasm for playful learning and pre-reading skill building.
• Demonstrate deep knowledge of children's literature and early literacy educational methods. Clear and thorough understanding of early literacy techniques and best practices.

Ability to:

• Plan and prioritize. Make decisions and work independently and interdependently.
• Accept and manage change. Maintain composure and overcome stress in any situation.
• Identify efficiencies and implement improvements in workflow.
• Display high standards of ethical conduct, honesty, and integrity. Lead by example.

• Understand, endorse, and communicate the St. Joseph County Public Library’s policies and procedures in a courteous, friendly, and positive manner.
• Be enthusiastic, creative, flexible, energetic, value diversity, and possess a sense of humor.
• Solve problems in a professional manner with library patrons, co-workers, and Leadership.
• Form and maintain excellent working relationships. Network and partner with appropriate community organizations.
• Manage confidential information appropriately.
• Work patiently and creatively with all patrons.
• Model excellent customer service.
• Teach and instruct others on a variety of topics.
• Become proficient with current library technology.
• Take charge in emergency situations.