Library Media Specialist (K-12) Candidate Pool

Howard County Public School System; Santa Rosa (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement benefits

Paid time off

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

Howard County Public School System is seeking a dedicated Library Media Specialist to oversee the library media program. This role involves planning instruction, managing resources, and fostering a supportive learning environment.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in a related field and certification as a Library Media Professional Librarian. The position comes with a comprehensive benefits package and is part of the 10-month teacher salary scale.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing a library media program.
• Strong ability to instruct students and staff on resource use.
• Knowledge of library science and curriculum development.

Responsibilities

• Instruct students and staff on library resources.
• Collaborate with teachers to address curricular needs.
• Evaluate library program and maintain compliance with laws.

Skills

Library media program management

Instructional technology integration

Information literacy strategies

Collaboration with teachers

Education

Bachelor’s degree in education or related field

Maryland State Department of Education certification as a Library Media Professional Librarian

Job description

DESCRIPTION

Under the direction of the principal, the Library Media Specialist plans and administers the school's library media program. The role involves delivering direct instruction to students, training staff, managing the library media center’s materials, facilities, and equipment, and communicating the program to administrators, staff, students, parents, and the community. The specialist is responsible for maintaining an engaging learning environment that supports curriculum, promotes reading, and encourages lifelong learning.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field of education.
• Maryland State Department of Education certification as a Library Media Professional Librarian.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• At least three years of teaching experience.
• Experience in the integration of technology within the school library setting.
• Knowledge of current library science and information literacy strategies.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Instruct students and staff on the effective use of library resources and current technologies.
• Embed information literacy into day-to-day instruction and promote reading and lifelong learning through motivational activities.
• Collaborate with teachers to use appropriate resources that address curricular needs and learning goals.
• Adhere to copyright laws and ethical use guidelines of all resources.
• Advocate intellectual freedom and collaborate with other libraries and agencies.
• Provide flexible access to library resources for individuals and groups.
• Organize library facilities and resources to maximize access and support school objectives.
• Encourage use of print and electronic resources throughout the school and via remote access.
• Develop and implement a collection development and evaluation process focused on diverse learning needs.
• Create and manage budget requests, administer library budgets, maintain records, and submit accurate reports.
• Evaluate the library program regularly against quality standards and comply with all relevant laws and policies.
• Promote the library media program within the school, community, and to support online learning and digital content integration.
• Self-assess and demonstrate increased effectiveness in applying gained skills.
• Participate in school safety operations and attend staff meetings, district events, and relevant committees.

EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION

This is a 10‑month per year position within the Howard County Educators Association (HCEA) bargaining unit. Salary is on the 10‑Month Teacher Salary scale and will be determined according to the Howard County Public School System and HCEA Master Agreement, considering prior experience.

Retirement benefits include the mandatory 7% yearly contribution to the Maryland State Retirement Agency pension plan, with full eligibility under the Code of Maryland Regulations. Benefits also cover a comprehensive package for eligible employees, including paid time off as negotiated in the bargaining unit agreement.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

HCPSS celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All employment decisions are based on organizational needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to protected characteristics such as race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.