Upper School Library Assistant

Priority Dispatch Corp.; Owings Mills (MD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

An established educational institution is seeking a dedicated Library Assistant to enhance the library experience for students. This part-time role focuses on maintaining an organized and welcoming library environment, facilitating student research, and managing library operations. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, fostering a supportive atmosphere that encourages exploration and learning. If you are passionate about literature and dedicated to helping young adults discover valuable resources, this opportunity offers a chance to make a significant impact in a vibrant educational setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Library and Information Studies is essential.
• Strong research, communication, and organizational skills are required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily library operations and maintain organized spaces.
• Assist students with research questions and promote diverse resources.
• Collaborate with faculty to provide engaging instruction.

Skills

Research Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Library and Information Studies

Master's Degree in Library and Information Studies

Tools

Library Management Systems

Google Workspace

Chromebooks

Windows

iOS Devices

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: McDonogh School - Owings Mills, MD

Salary Range: Undisclosed

Description

The Upper School Library Assistant helps create and maintain an organized, efficient, and welcoming library environment where students feel comfortable seeking help with research, discovering new books, or simply finding a quiet place to read and study. This position focuses on clerical operations, including processing materials, managing supplies, coordinating circulation procedures, and ensuring the physical space remains conducive to student learning and research. By handling these essential operational aspects, the Library Assistant enables the library to function smoothly as a resource center for the school community. This role requires someone who is approachable, empathetic to student needs, and passionate about connecting young adults with resources that inspire them. The ideal candidate creates a library atmosphere where students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to explore diverse perspectives through literature and research.

This is a part-time position (25 hours per week). Compensation will be offered in the range of $25,000- $35,000. Individual offers will be specific, and based on education, experience, and benchmarking parameters.

Essential Functions

• Daily Library Operation and Maintenance
• Oversee daily operation of the Upper School library, including supervision of students and maintenance of functional, organized spaces and resources
• Staff the circulation desk and supports circulation procedures, including check-outs, returns, and overdue notices
• Organize and shelve print materials according to the Dewey Decimal classification system
• Assist in the creation and maintenance of regularly updated library displays and bulletin boards
• Answer general directional questions for students and other visitors to the library
• Address basic printing questions and keeps library printers stocked with paper and supplies
• Assist with special projects in the library (inventories, moving books, etc.)
• Research & Instructional Assistance
• Maintain a working knowledge of print and digital resources that support the curriculum
• Assist students and faculty with general research questions
• Promote resources that highlight varied perspectives and experiences
• Guide students to locate, evaluate, and ethically use information
• Collaborate with the librarian and teaching faculty to provide engaging instruction as needed

Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Library and Information Studies or School Library Media.

Additional Experience

• Broad knowledge of literature for young adults and beyond
• Experience in a school library, or other relevant library or classroom experience
• Experience in collection development is a plus
• Familiarity with library management systems, print and digital research, and critical source evaluation
• Proficiency with current technology tools relevant to students
• Proficient with basic equipment (Chromebooks/Windows/iOS devices, printers, copiers, scanners, projectors, videoconferencing, etc.)
• Proficient with basic software (Google Workspace)
• Strong research and reference skills

Additional Requirements

• Ability to both learn from and encourage continual growth in a highly motivated faculty
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with faculty and students
• Ability to effectively multitask in a vibrant library setting
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and discretion
• Ability to work in a diverse environment and inclusive culture that values and respects differences across race, ethnicity, religion, and orientation or identity
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to connect with teenagers
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Exhibits a strong work ethic
• Familiarity with independent schools and previous experience in an educational setting are preferred
• Genuine enthusiasm for working with high school students
• Must be able to comply with background checks, including fingerprints, as required by the agency and / or state regulations
• Must be able to work independently
• Must possess personal qualifications as required, flexibility, patience, good personal hygiene and physical and mental health that do not interfere with responsibilities.
• Strong commitment to creating student-centered library services
• Upholds the School's mission and philosophy, and demonstrates the School's core character values

Working Conditions

Evening and weekend hours may be required from time to time. Flexible scheduling to accommodate student needs and library peak times. Lifting and carrying of equipment is typical, generally under 25 pounds. Lifting up to 25 pounds. Other working conditions include climbing stairs, walking around campus, sitting, standing, bending, balancing, squatting, reaching, and grasping. Significant computer use, including extensive close use of a computer monitor.