Youth Programs & Engagement Specialist

Columbus Metropolitan Library; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Medical/dental/vision plans

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Mental health resources

Paid time off

Job summary

Columbus Metropolitan Library is seeking a Youth Engagement Specialist at Parsons Branch to inspire youth and caregivers through literacy‑driven programs and outreach. You will help develop and deliver engaging activities aligned with the library’s Young Minds Strategy and collaborate with schools or community partners.

The role emphasizes strong communication, program development, and a commitment to diversity in service delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required.
• 2–3 years’ experience working with youth or community engagement required.
• Experience delivering programs to diverse audiences preferred.
• Interest and ability to develop rapport with youth and caregivers.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to operate library technology including personal computer, email, software programs (i.e., Windows/Microsoft Office) and other job‑related equipment and systems.
• Ability to utilize reliable transportation to promptly report to job assignment and other locations, per job requirements.

Responsibilities

• Provides high level customer service by engaging youth and families in usage of library resources, activities and programs.
• Creates a safe, welcoming environment that balances a fun atmosphere, engaging activities and relationship building, while supporting youth development and learning.
• Plans, promotes and presents programs and informal engagements for children of all ages at the location and off-site.
• Answers customer questions and provides customer service throughout the building.
• Connects with schools and community organizations to promote Young Minds programs and services through presentations, community events and networking.
• Diffuses youth confrontations, mediates and reduces tensions.
• Performs collection management activities for juvenile materials as directed.
• Ensures that the children’s and teen areas are neat, orderly and appealing to customers and staff.
• Maintains personal skills and knowledge through engagement with library trainings, reviewing resources and professional development conversations with other youth services staff members.
• Utilizes computer applications and library equipment, maintains current knowledge of system wide and location specific procedures, processes, policies and operations.
• Supports library policies and procedures, including the Code of Conduct, by following up with customers when necessary; alerts Security Officer and/or manager about suspicious behavior and similar risks to safety and security.
• Performs other duties as assigned including serving on taskforces, committees, etc.
• Assumes responsibility for the operation of the location in the absence of a manager.

Skills

Youth engagement

Communication skills

Technology skills

Transportation

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree required

Tools

Windows/Microsoft Office

Job description

Columbus Metropolitan Library is seeking a Youth Engagement Specialist at Parsons Branch to inspire youth and caregivers through literacy‑driven programs and outreach. You will help develop and deliver engaging activities aligned with the library’s Young Minds Strategy and collaborate with schools or community partners.

The role emphasizes strong communication, program development, and a commitment to diversity in service delivery.