Children's Librarian

Job Description: Children’s Librarian

Department: Library

Date: May 2026

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Summary

Under the direction of the Library Director, the Children’s Librarian is responsible for the strategic vision, daily management, and delivery of all children’s library services (serving ages birth to 12). This role encompasses collection development, supervision of department personnel, reference and readers' advisory, and the design and execution of vibrant, inclusive programming and community outreach.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Plans, organizes, and supervises the daily operations of the Children’s Department. Collects data for annual reports.


• Performs specialized reference work for children and provides expert reader’s advisory guidance to parents, caregivers, and educators regarding children’s literature, literacy development, and research tools.


• Designs, promotes, and delivers innovative and specialized programs, including story hours, early literacy initiatives, and sensory-based or hands-on interactive activities.


• Participates in the development of library-wide policies for children. Assists the Library Director in preparing the annual materials and program budgets for the children’s department and responsibly maintains expenditures within the approved allocation.


• Selects, evaluates, and manages all children’s books, media, and digital resources, building an inclusive collection guided by a commitment to both narrative excellence and diverse perspectives.


• Assigns daily duties, coordinates schedules in collaboration with the Assistant Director, and supervises the work of library personnel and volunteers assigned to the department.


• Initiates and maintains robust cooperative outreach programs with local elementary schools, preschools, and community organizations. Conducts school visits, hosts class visits to the library, and provides instruction on library resources.


• Promotes children's services and library visibility through engaging exhibits, thematic displays, curated reading lists, and targeted digital publicity or social media outreach.


• Utilizes the library's Integrated Library System (ILS) efficiently.


• Stays current with emerging trends by reading professional literature and representing the library at regional and state professional meetings.


• Performs other duties of a similar nature and complexity as directed by library leadership.

Requirements:

• Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited library school.


• Three to five years of professional, related library experience, with a proven focus on youth services or children's operations.

Core Competencies & Skills

• Deep knowledge of children’s literature, publishing trends, and child development principles, with a strong background in early childhood or early literacy programming.


• Exceptional communication and customer service skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse public and foster a welcoming, inclusive environment.


• Proficiency with standard computer applications, electronic databases, internet research, and social media. A solid understanding of current and emerging library technologies and modern programming trends for children.


• Highly flexible and organized, with the ability to manage multiple competing priorities, welcome organizational growth, and thrive in a high-volume public service environment.


• Ability to bend, reach, sit, and stand for extended periods as required to maintain the department and assist patrons.


• Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes regular evening and weekend shifts.

EOE/AA