Department Head -- Youth Services, Maplewood Memorial library

LibraryLinkNJ Technology Advisory Group; Maplewood (NJ); On-site; USD 86,044 - 103,649; Full time

Job summary

Maplewood Memorial Library seeks a dynamic Head of Youth Services to lead the children’s and teen librarians, develop collections, and grow community outreach in Maplewood, NJ.

The role oversees staff, budgets and programming, including story hours, Summer Reading and author visits, while partnering with local schools and other libraries. Strong leadership and communication are essential.

Qualifications

• ALA accredited MLIS and NJ Professional Librarian Certification required.
• Minimum of five years progressive management experience in a library setting.
• Experience with outreach, programming and partnership development.
• Strong communication and organizational skills, and ability to work collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee children’s and teen librarians, including hiring, training, scheduling and evaluations.
• Lead department meetings and coordinate with Hilton Branch Manager for dual reporting.
• Plan and conduct story hours, summer reading, author visits and community outreach.
• Develop diverse collections and manage materials budgeting for youth services.
• Provide reference support and create engaging book lists and displays.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Management

Outreach

Event planning

Education

MLIS (ALA-accredited)

NJ Librarian Certification

Tools

Windows

macOS

Job description

Department Head -- Youth Services, Maplewood Memorial library

The Maplewood Memorial Library connects people to information, ideas, culture—and each other. We are open to all.

The Head of Youth Services is responsible for the management and supervision of the children’s and teen librarians. Reporting to the Assistant Director, this dynamic and creative individual understands our unique and diverse community and develops collections, programs and services accordingly. They are current in public library matters, are a demonstrated leader, team builder and collaborator, have excellent communication skills and show a commitment to sustainable workplace and professional practices. The Head of Youth Services has the vision and stamina to energetically lead this bustling department.

Specific job duties include:

Personnel and Management

• Supervise children’s and teen librarians including hiring, training, scheduling, regular performance evaluations, and mentorship
• In concert with Hilton Branch Manager, manage dual reporting of some staff
• Lead regular department meetings to keep staff informed and engaged
• Foster an environment that is collaborative, collegial, and energized
• Participate in management meetings and contribute to mission-driven planning

Programs, publicity and outreach

• Initiate, plan and conduct story hours, class visits, storytelling, book talks and other programs
• Lead the vibrant Summer Reading Program, from planning through execution, coordinating events, staff, volunteers, budget and logistics, and in partnership with South Orange Public Library and shared school district
• Facilitate author visits and grants for unique and economical programming
• Provide publicity and social media content for flyers and press releases
• Represent the Library in the community as necessary, including school visits and local events
• Allocate programming funds appropriately across departments

Collection Development

• Oversee materials budget for Children’s and Teen departments
• Supervise and perform collection development and maintenance for children and teen materials across all formats
• Stay current on children’s and teen literature, professional review materials, trends, and community reading interests
• Ensure collections are robust, diverse and meets the needs of the community

Reader Services

• Provide reference and readers’ services at a public desk for children, teens, parents, caregivers and local teachers
• Compile and share book lists, design book displays and decor
• Help children find library materials and develop their own searching skills

Professional Development

• Stay current on professional trends and literature
• Attend professional meetings and conferences as appropriate

Other duties assigned as needed.

Scheduling

Library scheduling requires an assignment of one evening per week, Saturday and Sunday hours.

Position Requirements:

• ALA accredited MLIS and NJ Professional Librarian Certification
• Professional library experience, preferably with children and/or teens
• Minimum of five years progressive management experienceKnowledge of library trends and reference sources
• Familiarity with and enthusiasm for current and emerging technologies
• Knowledge of and experience with Windows and Apple operating systems.
• Experience planning and executing events large and small
• Experience with outreach and building partnerships.
• Strong communication & organizational skills
• Ability to deal effectively with sensitive issues
• Ability to work independently and in a team

This position requires the ability to walk, sit, bend, kneel, climb, push/pull on a daily basis.

Salary Range: $86,044.48 - $103, 649.81, with benefits