Early Childhood Specialist/Reference Assistant (Part-Time)

The Early Childhood Specialist/Reference Assistant plans, implements, and evaluates quality, research-based early literacy, and early learning library programming for families with children between the developmental stages of infancy through preschool.

Job Description Summary

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

• Organizes and delivers weekly story times for preschool-aged children and their caregivers.
• Creates developmentally appropriate early childhood and family programs aligned with the library’s mission statement.
• Under the supervision of the Youth Services Librarian, assists with preparing, publicizing, presenting, implementing, and clean-up of events for children and families.
• Maintains and evaluates the library’s 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Reading Program.
• Serves library patrons by answering reference questions, providing reader’s advisory, resolving patron problems, and providing guidance in use of information resources during regularly scheduled reference desk shifts.
• Assists patrons with use of library equipment, including microfilm, internet, computers, photocopier, scanner, printer, and coin-operated print release station.
• Acts as staff member in charge when working evenings and weekends, and monitors patron behavior, addressing any problems in a firm but respectful manner.
• Serves as back-up shift coverage at reference desk and youth services programs in case of staff illness or absence.
• Maintains order in the children’s areas of the library.
• Prepares displays that feature and emphasize themes being presented.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, childcare, child development, or a related required. Master’s degree in library science from an ALA-accredited college or university or currently enrolled in an ALA-accredited MLIS program desirable.
• Experience working with young children in a professional setting (ex. day care, summer camps, preschool teacher, teacher’s assistant, etc.) required.
• Equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Considerable knowledge of child development and early learning and literacy practices.
• Some knowledge of children’s books and story time practices.
• Knowledge of and willingness to follow and enforce Library policies and procedures.
• Considerable knowledge of online and print reference resources.
• Self-motivated to stay updated on the evolving needs and practices of child development, early learning and literacy, and family issues, especially in a library setting.
• Creative in motivating young children and families to explore the world of reading.
• Ability to communicate well, both orally and in writing, with children and patrons of all ages
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective, positive working relationships with patrons, coworkers, supervisors, other agencies, and the public.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to organize and prioritize workload and work efficiently.
• Ability to effectively operate Library computers and related cataloging software.
• Comfort with computers and other technology, including e-readers, cell phones (both Android and Apple operating systems) and other personal electronic devices.
• Proficient keyboarding, filing, basic math, and alphabetizing skills.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to remain calm and work under pressure when needed.
• Ability to work independently and with a team.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of information handled.
• Ability to attend mandatory reference and youth services staff meetings.
• Ability to work the shifts as scheduled, including weekends and evenings.

Special Requirements:

• Reliable transportation for timely and punctual attendance.