Librarian/Library Media Specialist (PK - 8)

KIPP SoCal Public Schools; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

KIPP SoCal Public Schools seeks a passionate Librarian/Library Media Specialist to support literacy and learning for students in grades PK-8. This role involves collaboration with educators, managing library resources, and promoting a culture of reading. Ideal candidates will have a strong commitment to educational equity and a desire to foster a love of learning in students.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package including health coverage

Retirement plan

Qualifications

• Experience in a school library or educational setting.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and belonging.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with teachers to integrate library resources into instruction.
• Organize and promote reading programs and events.
• Maintain the library's physical and digital collections.

Skills

Communication

Collaboration

Instructional Skills

Cultural Competence

Education

Bachelor's degree in Library Science, Education, or related field

State certification as a School Library Media Specialist

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Technology tools and digital resources

Job description

Librarian/Library Media Specialist (PK - 8)

Join to apply for the Librarian/Library Media Specialist (PK - 8) role at KIPP SoCal Public Schools.

About KIPP Kansas City Public Schools: KIPP Kansas City Public Schools is part of a nationwide network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory charter schools dedicated to preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life. Our strength as a region serves as a catalyst for empowerment, change, and hope.

Job Description

1. Collaborate with teachers to integrate library resources and literacy skills into classroom instruction, supporting the school's curriculum objectives.
2. Select and acquire library materials that align with the curriculum, student interests, and diverse needs of the school community.
3. Teach students how to effectively find, evaluate, and use information from various sources, including books, databases, and digital resources, while promoting digital citizenship and copyright awareness.
4. Organize and promote reading programs, author visits, book fairs, and other events to encourage a culture of reading and lifelong learning among students.
5. Integrate technology tools and digital resources into library services and instruction, assisting students and teachers in utilizing educational software, online databases, and digital storytelling tools.
6. Organize and maintain the library's physical and digital collections, including cataloging, shelving, and weeding materials as needed, while managing circulation (check-out, check-in, shelving, inventory, item processing).
7. Make purchasing recommendations that support users’ needs and interests and the community’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
8. Collaborate with educators, administrators, and community members to promote literacy initiatives and library programs, staying informed about current trends and best practices in library science.
9. Advocate for the role of the library media program in supporting student achievement, literacy development, and lifelong learning, communicating the value of library services to stakeholders.
10. Assess the effectiveness of library programs and services through data collection and evaluation methods, using feedback to inform resource allocation and program improvement.
11. Create a welcoming and inclusive library environment that celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of belonging for all students, offering programming and resources that reflect the cultural backgrounds and interests of the school community.
12. Create and maintain displays, thematic promotions, bulletin boards, and library signage; maintain free library and donation of withdrawn books.
13. Perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School or Division Head, such as carpool, study hall, lunch, etc.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Library Science, Education, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
• State certification as a School Library Media Specialist (preferred).
• Experience working in a school library or educational setting, with knowledge of children's literature and literacy development.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and instructional skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, teachers, administrators, and families.
• Proficiency in technology tools and digital resources commonly used in libraries and educational settings.
• Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and belonging in library programs and services.
• Ability to adapt to changing educational trends and requirements, with a passion for fostering a lifelong love of learning among students.

Additional Information

• Skills: Passion for education equity, alignment with KIPP’s mission, achievement orientation, cultural competence, and commitment to equity.

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. KIPP KC offers a comprehensive benefits package including health coverage and retirement.