Jobs at the Des Moines Public Library

• Job Title: Librarian
• Department: Youth Services
• Salary: $64,979
• Location: TBD
• Position Type: Full-time
• Date Posted: Wednesday, November 22, 2023

SUMMARY

Under the direction of a library supervisor, plans, coordinates, and performs programs and activities with an emphasis on services to youth and youth-serving adults and agencies within the library setting and in the local community. Participates in collection management. Demonstrates proficiency in current and emerging library technology. Provides excellent reference and readers’ advisory service for all customers. This is a forty (40) hour week position with days, evening, and weekend hours. Does related work as required.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Provides exemplary customer service to library patrons.
• Answers reference, research, and readers' advisory questions.
• Develops and provides interactive library programs for youth, including storytelling, literacy activities, school visits, book discussions, information literacy instruction, and other programs as community needs dictate.
• Models literacy standards for parents and caregivers.
• Trains patrons in use of online catalog, online resources, and library technology.
• Manages interactions with customers with tact and diplomacy.
• Directs collection management for youth services.
• Acts as liaison with other agencies serving youth and their caregivers.
• Builds relationships and partners with area schools through regular outreach and support.
• Directs planning and organizing work within the youth department.
• Provides direction, training, and supervision to support staff and volunteers.
• Plans and maintains displays, exhibits, and bulletin boards.
• Reads professional literature and participates in continuing education to keep informed of developing library practices and issues.
• Actively participates as a member and leader of the Youth Services Team and other assigned committees.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL ABILITIES

• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing, with or without reasonable accommodation, to be able to communicate effectively.
• Sufficient vision, with or without reasonable accommodation, to be able to produce and review a wide variety of reports and related materials in both electronic and hard copy form.
• Sufficient manual dexterity, with or without reasonable accommodation, to be able to access relevant library materials and operate a keyboard.
• Sufficient mobility, with or without reasonable accommodation, to be able to transport materials and equipment.
• Must be able to travel between buildings.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of library policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of a broad range of reference and readers' advisory materials and resources.
• Knowledge of youth literature and materials, social media, and technological trends.
• Skill in using current and emerging library technology and automated systems.
• Skill in training customers to use library resources.
• Ability to provide outstanding customer service through the use of excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability and interest to learn new technologies and keep current on trends.
• Ability to instruct, train, and supervise support staff and volunteers.
• Ability to establish rapport and to interact successfully with youth, parents, and caregivers.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Ability to keep records, files, compile reports, and analyze statistics.
• Ability to meet assigned project deadlines.
• Ability to serve the public in a positive manner.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced public service environment.
• Ability to develop and execute creative, successful, and relevant youth programs that serve the needs of the community.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Completion of a master’s degree from an ALA-accredited graduate school of library and information science is required.
• Successful experience in public library youth services work is required, including demonstrated skill in youth programming and collection development.
• Excellent customer service skills with all ages is required.
• Preferred bilingual Spanish/English spoken and written language skills.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

Send resume, letter of application, and unofficial transcripts to Deputy Director Jon Hobbs:

• Email: JTHobbs@dmpl.org
• Fax: 515-237-1654
• Mail: 1000 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA, 50309

References and unofficial transcripts will be requested at the time of an interview.

Current employees who have their transcript and resume on file do not need to resubmit those two items currently. Current employees must contact Jon Hobbs via email or hard copy of interest in this position before the closing date and time.

The Des Moines Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Candidates for positions in this class must pass a post-employment offer physical examination, drug screen, and background check.