School Librarian, Grades K-3 at The Dalton School

METRO | 599; New York (NY); On-site; USD 81,000 - 178,000; Full time

Job summary

A progressive K-12 gender-inclusive school in New York is seeking a dynamic School Librarian for grades K-3. This role involves teaching library navigation and literature appreciation, curating diverse collections, and collaborating with teachers. The ideal candidate will have a Master's in Library/Information Sciences and a passion for fostering an inclusive and creative learning environment in the library. This is a full-time position with an annual salary range of $81,000 – $178,000 based on experience.

Qualifications

• Masters of Library/Information Sciences preferred.
• Previous experience in a school library preferred.
• Teaching certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Teach weekly lessons on library navigation and literature appreciation.
• Curate collections for diverse perspectives.
• Collaborate with teachers to co-teach engaging lessons.
• Foster an inclusive learning environment.

Skills

Library navigation skills

Literature appreciation

Research skills

Collaboration

Communication

Education

Masters of Library/Information Sciences

Job description

Salary Range: $81,000 – $178,000. The position on the scale will be based on years of teaching experience and education.

Exemption Status: Exempt

The Dalton School, a progressive K-12 gender-inclusive school in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, is consistently recognized as one of the preeminent independent day schools in the nation. Known for its child-centered approach and an exceptional, inspiring faculty, Dalton enrolls over 1,300 students with approximately 350 faculty and staff. Guided by the Dalton Plan, the foundation of a Dalton education, our faculty meets each student’s evolving needs, interests, and abilities. Dalton challenges each student to develop intellectual independence, creativity, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility toward others both within the School and in the broader community.

A library is more than a place to get books; an archive more than a place to research; a museum more than a place to look at objects. At Dalton, they are hubs of possibilities that provide students the opportunity to inquire and learn, to collaborate and share, to explore diverse perspectives and cultures, to develop empathy, and to come together as a community of passionate readers and pursuers of knowledge.

In support of this mission, we are seeking a dynamic, joyful School Librarian for grades K-3 to provide the leadership and expertise necessary to ensure that the library program is an integral part of the instructional program of the school and supports The Dalton Plan. The Dalton School Libraries are committed to an inclusive library environment and strive to provide a community space where all students, faculty, staff, alumni and families feel welcome and valued.

As one of two First Program (FP) librarians, the librarian in this position will focus on teaching Kindergarten and 1st grade classes on a fixed library schedule and collaborate closely on all aspects of managing the FP school library described below. Under the leadership of the Director of Libraries, our team also includes two high school librarians, two middle school librarians, a MS/HS library assistant, a technical administrator, and professionals in the museum program and school archives.

Responsibilities:

• Teach weekly lessons to kindergarten and 1st grade students covering library navigation, literature appreciation, and basic research skills, often utilizing read‑alouds.
• Curate collections that represent diverse perspectives and meet the curricular and recreational reading interests of the First Program community.
• Collaborate with teachers to design and co‑teach engaging lessons and activities, specifically focusing on embedding information literacy skills into the curriculum.
• Lab with students one‑on‑one or in small groups to support personalized learning experiences that foster a love of reading and discovery.
• Organize reading events, author visits and library displays to create a joyful and connected school‑wide reading culture.
• Manage the makerspace within the library, facilitating hands‑on, creative learning experiences that support curiosity, collaboration and problem‑solving.
• Assist with the selection, acquisition, evaluation, and organization of library resources in multiple formats.
• Support students in developing skills for evaluating and using information responsibly.
• Foster an inclusive learning environment that encourages exploration and risk‑taking.
• Collaborate with the library team to develop and implement library policies and programs.
• Communicate effectively with faculty, staff, parents, and students to build strong relationships.
• Seek out and value feedback from colleagues and students to strengthen programs and services.
• Take an active role in the life of the school community.

Qualifications:

• Masters of Library/Information Sciences with a concentration in School Librarianship from accredited program preferred.
• Previous experience in a school library preferred.
• Teaching certification preferred.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff to plan, develop, and implement a high level of student services and programs.
• Ability to teach and promote information literacy and the school library program.

Knowledge of:

• stages of child development and developmentally appropriate teaching strategies,
• print and non‑print collection development for children,
• information technology,
• research methodology, and
• library programming and services for children.

The Dalton School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, ethnic origin, age, physical disability, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by applicable law in the administration of our educational policies, hiring policies, admissions policies, financial aid programs, athletics, and other school‑administered programs.