Outreach Librarian- Berkeley Heights Public Library

LibraryLinkNJ Technology Advisory Group; Berkeley Heights (NJ); On-site; USD 66,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

PERS retirement enrollment

Job summary

LibraryLinkNJ Technology Advisory Group is seeking an Outreach Librarian for the Berkeley Heights Public Library. This role emphasizes community engagement, delivering programs beyond library walls, and building partnerships with local schools and organizations. Required qualifications include a Master’s Degree in Library Science and a valid NJ Professional Librarian Certificate. With a salary of $66k, this full-time position includes a comprehensive benefits package and aims to enhance library services in a growing community.

Qualifications

• Minimum professional library experience including community engagement, programming, or public service.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.
• Capacity to travel within the community for outreach activities.

Responsibilities

• Develop community engagement strategies and partnerships.
• Plan and lead engaging programs focused on youth and families.
• Coordinate outreach materials and maintain relevant statistics.

Skills

Community engagement

Relationship-building

Creativity in programming

Public service

Education

Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS)

Valid NJ Professional Librarian Certificate

Tools

Google Workspace

Microsoft Office

Canva

Integrated Library Systems (Koha)

Job description

Outreach Librarian- Berkeley Heights Public Library

Reports to: Youth Services Department Head

Classification: Full Time / Exempt

The Outreach Librarian connects the Berkeley Heights Public Library (BHPL) to the community by delivering programs, resources, and services beyond the library’s physical space. This newly created role builds partnerships with schools, community organizations, and local groups to expand access to library services, promote literacy, and engage youth and families. We are expanding our service to the community!

The Outreach Librarian plans and leads community programs, represents the library at local events, and develops strategies to reach new and underserved audiences. This position requires strong relationship‑building skills, creativity in programming, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a community‑centered environment.

Key Responsibilities

Community Engagement & Outreach

• Develop and maintain relationships with local schools, community organizations, businesses, and other partners to expand awareness and use of library services.
• Represent the library at community events, meetings, and outreach locations.
• Plan and deliver “Library to Go” services and outreach programs at schools, community organizations, and local events.
• Conduct regular check‑ins with community partners and stakeholders to identify opportunities for collaboration.
• Develop strategies to reach new and underserved audiences and increase community engagement with the library.

Programming & Public Service

• Plan, coordinate, and facilitate engaging library programs for all ages, with a primary focus on children and families.
• Participate in community events such as Summer Reading Kickoff, Summer Block Party, Winter Walk, and other town celebrations.
• Provide reader’s advisory and reference services to children, adults, and caregivers both within the library and at outreach events.
• Work scheduled shifts at the Children’s Services desk and may occasionally assist at Adult Reference or Circulation as needed.

Outreach Operations & Administration

• Coordinate and maintain outreach materials including Early Literacy Kits, Museum Bags, and Outreach Library Kits.
• Track and maintain outreach statistics and program data.
• Prepare monthly and annual reports, including updates for Board meetings and library reporting.
• Support recruitment, training, and supervision of the Summer Teen Volunteers.
• Develop promotional materials and marketing content using tools such as Canva or LibraryAware.
• Maintain awareness of current library service trends, outreach practices, and community needs.
• Promote literacy and provide materials that reflect the ethnic diversity of the community. Create age‑appropriate reading lists.
• Other duties as needed. Reports to Youth Services Department Head.

Essential Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA‑accredited program.
• Valid NJ Professional Librarian Certificate, or ability to obtain within one year of hire.
• Professional library experience that includes community engagement, programming, or public service responsibilities.
• Proficiency with common office and library technologies, including Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Canva, and Integrated Library Systems (such as Koha), and the ability to learn new software systems.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to travel within the community to conduct outreach activities.
• Ability to move, transport, and shelve library materials weighing up to 30 pounds, including bending, reaching, and use of a step stool as needed.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Desired Characteristics

• Experience working in a public library environment, particularly with outreach services.
• Experience developing or delivering programs for youth and families.
• Experience building partnerships with schools, community organizations, or local groups.

Hours and Compensation

This position is a 35‑hour workweek and includes a regular schedule of one evening per week and one Saturday per month. Additional evening and weekend hours may be required based on operational needs, including special events and programs.

This position offers a salary of $66,000, with flexibility up to $69,000 based on experience and overall qualifications. The Library offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as enrollment in PERS retirement system.

The Berkeley Heights Public Library enjoys a newly‑created space within the municipal complex, and is centrally located within walking distance of our downtown area. Welcoming and inclusive, we serve over 13,000 residents, and enjoy strong support from the community. We are an active, friendly community, with top‑rated schools, numerous community celebrations, and outstanding recreational programs and activities for all ages. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of any legally protected status under applicable federal law or the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination.

Good Faith Salary, Range, or Rate of Pay