Teen Librarian

Summary

Under the direction of the Library Director, the Teen Librarian is responsible for the strategic vision, daily management, and delivery of all teen library services (serving ages 13 to 18). This role encompasses collection development, supervision of department personnel, reference and readers' advisory, school and community outreach, and the design and execution of inventive and inclusive programming that fosters teen engagement, literacy and leadership. 

Duties and Responsibilities

• Plans, organizes, and supervises the daily operations of the Teen Department and dedicated teen spaces. Collects data for annual reports.
• Performs specialized reference work for young adults and provides expert readers advisory guidance to teens, parents, and educators regarding young adult literature, research tools, and academic support resources.
• Designs, promotes, and delivers innovative and specialized programs including teen advisory boards, workshops, book clubs, creative media, and hands-on interactive activities.
• Participates in the development of library-wide policies for teens. Assists the Library Director in preparing the annual materials and program budgets for the teen department and responsibly maintains expenditures within the approved allocation.
• Selects, evaluates, and manages all young adult books, media, and digital resources, building an inclusive collection guided by a commitment to both narrative excellence and diverse perspectives.
• Assigns daily duties, coordinates schedules in collaboration with the Assistant Director, and supervises the work of library personnel and volunteers assigned to the department.
• Initiates and maintains robust cooperative outreach programs with local middle schools, high schools, and community organizations. Conducts school visits, hosts class visits to the library, and provides instruction on library resources.
• Promotes teen services and library visibility through engaging exhibits, thematic displays, curated reading lists, and targeted digital publicity or social media outreach.
• Utilizes the library's Integrated Library System (ILS) efficiently.
• Stays current with emerging trends by reading professional literature and representing the library at regional and state professional meetings.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature and complexity as directed by library leadership.

Required Background & Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited library school.
• Three to five years of professional, related library experience, with a proven focus on youth services or young adult operations.

Core Competencies & Skills

• Deep knowledge of young adult literature, publishing trends, and adolescent development principles, with a strong background in teen programming and youth engagement strategies.
• Exceptional communication and customer service skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse public and foster a welcoming, inclusive environment.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications, electronic databases, internet research, and social media. A solid understanding of current and emerging library technologies and modern programming trends for teens.
• Highly flexible and organized, with the ability to manage multiple competing priorities, welcome organizational growth, and thrive in a high-volume public service environment.
• Ability to bend, reach, sit, and stand for extended periods as required to maintain the department and assist patrons.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes regular evening and weekend shifts.

EOE/AA