Head of Library and Information Services and Middle School Librarian

Spence seeks our next Head of Library and Information Services, an inspiring and innovative leader to guide the central, vibrant resource that is our school library, and lead a dedicated team of librarians. The Library at Spence serves as a hub of exploration and inquiry, providing both students and faculty with a rich array of print and digital resources, as well as rigorous research tools. The person in this role will collaborate as a colleague across every department, fostering a deep love of reading and the development of critical research skills in a rapidly changing world. 

Department Head Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation K-12 information literacy and research skills scope and sequence 
• Oversee operations in two libraries
• Supervise five-member K-12 Department of Library and Information Services
• Lead hiring and professional evaluation for librarians and library assistants
• Lead regular department meetings
• Manage departmental budget
• Oversee collection development, maintenance, and cataloging
• Manage subscriptions for research databases, e-books, periodicals and library software
• Serve on Department Heads team and other committees as needed
• Represent the department at Admissions and other events
• Maintain contacts on a local and national level with other K-12 library professionals

Middle School Librarian Responsibilities

• Teach research and library skills in collaboration with faculty across departments
• Serve at reference and circulation desk in the Middle and Upper School library
• Emphasize the importance of literacy and lifelong love for reading
• Participate in faculty meetings and professional learning
• Serve as readers advisor to make book recommendations and create summer reading lists
• Create thematic book displays
• Serve as a Middle School Advisor

Qualifications

• Has significant academic and/or school library experience, with strong emphasis on experience with children and adolescents
• Possesses successful school-leadership experience
• Has deep knowledge of children's and young adult literature
• Has experience and facility with academic and library technology
• Has the ability to effectively plan, implement and evaluate library services, programs, resources, technology and facilities across a K-12 curriculum
• Finds joy in working with children and in school life 
• Leads with energy, kindness and a sense of humor
• Demonstrates cultural competency and skills engaging with and learning from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences
• Has led development and implementation of innovative program design  
• Demonstrates ability to foster sustained collaboration and professional growth within a team
• Demonstrates skills in communications and interpersonal relations within and across multiple constituencies 
• Has exceptional flexibility and organizational skills
• Has the desire for consistent and ongoing professional development and training
• Possesses an ALA-accredited MLIS or MLS degree and a bachelor’s degree 

The Spence School is committed to an equitable and inclusive program and a diverse faculty and student body. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply.