Coordinator of Youth Services

Full-time Position: 35-40 hours per week

Rate: $17-$19/hour plus benefits including Health Insurance, Retirement, Paid Sick and Vacation Time

Hours: Will include regular evenings and weekends

 

The Patterson Library, a member of the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System, seeks to provide a free, readily accessible, and specialized program of library services for every child in Westfield, NY. We strive to introduce children to the love of reading and literature, to develop capable users of information and technology, and to encourage each child’s development to their fullest potential.

Job Summary

The Coordinator of Youth Services plans and implements library services to babies, children, and teens as well as their guardians and teachers in conformity with policies and practices established by the Patterson Library Director and Board of Trustees.

Reports to the Director.

Principal Responsibilities and Duties

  • Establishes and maintains a high standard of children’s and teen services for the Westfield community.
  • Manages the selection, ordering and weeding of children’s and young adult library materials consistent with the library’s mission and policies.
  • Prepares bibliographies, reading lists, book displays, decorative bulletin boards, craft kits, in-house activities, and special décor in youth areas during holidays and Summer Reading.
  • Cultivates a welcoming and safe environment by maintaining order and appearance of the children’s and young adult spaces and collections.
  • Reports maintenance and repair needs in youth areas to the appropriate parties. Oversees the care, keeping, and replacement of youth area equipment (i.e. furniture, toys, gaming equipment.)
  • Develops and conducts a variety of library programs for youth of all ages. These include school year programming, summer reading programs, and special programs using outside resources.
  • Develops cooperative programs with Westfield Academy & Central School and other community organizations. Provides opportunities for adults, teens, and children to volunteer in youth services, and oversees said volunteers.
  • Assists and instructs children and adults in the use of library services and resources. Conducts library tours for youth including school visits.
  • Promotes and publicizes the youth services, programs, and resources of the library by preparing or overseeing the creation of flyers, brochures, social media, web pages, etc.
  • Keeps informed of trends in children’s literature, library services and issues affecting children. Attends professional workshops, webinars and conferences.
  • Communicates with director regarding the operations in the youth areas, and prepares regular narrative and statistical reports.
  • Orders youth supplies as needed.
  • Cooperates as a team member with library staff in performing essential library duties and participates in library special projects as needed or requested by director.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

·        Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field is required. Preference given to candidates holding an MLS/MLIS degree from an ALA accredited institution.

·        Considerable knowledge of library services, youth literature, and/or physical & mental development of youth.

·        Working knowledge of library principles and practices.

·        Strong oral and written communications skills.

·        Ability to understand and interpret library policies, procedures, and rules.

·        A working knowledge of computer applications, and the ability to learn about various technologies including video game systems.

·        Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work routines independently and efficiently.

·        Comfort with work in a primarily public facing position that will consist of the enforcement of library rules and policies.

·        Ability to interact courteously and effectively with library staff, volunteers, community stakeholders, Board of Trustees, and the general public.

·        Commitment to excellence in customer service.

·        Creativity, curiosity, and a desire to promote positive community spirit, friendship, and mentoring opportunities.

For application please send cover letter and resumé to director@pattersonlib.org. Consideration for this position will begin Aug. 1, 2024. But Patterson Library will accept applications until the position is filled.