Friday, October 25, 2024

Head of Youth Services, York Public Library, York, ME

 Come work in beautiful Vacationland: "Maine - The Way Life Should Be!"

York Public Library is seeking a dynamic, innovative, and upbeat leader to join our very busy library as the Head of Youth Services. The successful candidate will be passionately committed to engaging and inspiring children of all ages and their caregivers. The Head of Youth Services coordinates all aspects of the department - including programming, collection development, readers' advisory - as well as scheduling and supervising 1 full time and up to 4 part time staff members. The ideal applicant has an in-depth working knowledge of literature for children and young adults and is well-versed in modern library practices and current technologies and trends as they pertain to Youth Services. They must be energetic, organized, self-motivated, and have the ability to work independently with only general supervision. The winning candidate must possess excellent customer service and interpersonal skills and be able to think big-picture about the role of the department in the Library. As a member of the library's leadership team, the Head of Youth Services works collaboratively to develop and implement strategic plans, coordinate community initiatives, and grow York Public Library to support its patrons.

York, Maine is a picturesque and historic coastal town located an hour north of Boston and just across the Piscataquis River from Portsmouth, NH. York is comprised of four villages: York Harbor, York Beach, Cape Neddick, and historic York Village with a combined population of approximately 14,000. This population swells to 30,000+ during the summer months.

We're home to 4 beaches; 2 lighthouses; 3 golf courses; and Mount Agamenticus. In addition to quaint shops, art galleries, and world-class restaurants galore, York is full of opportunities to hike, bike, and camp; sail, kayak, or canoe; surf, swim, or simply take a stroll along the beach.

***Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. ***

For a complete job description, please see https://yorkpubliclibrary.org/employment/

Qualifications Needed for Position:

A Master's degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program is required; a Master's degree in a related field will be considered for the right candidate. Three to five years of supervisory experience in a library setting is preferred, though a combination of related work experience and education may be considered.


Experience and Skill Requirements:  The following experience and skills are considered essential:

At least three years of supervisory experience in a library setting is preferred, though a combination of related work experience and education may be considered; experience in how to serve youth of all ages is required.

Proven skills in storytelling and relating to children, especially pre-school children, and their parents and caregivers.

Proficiency in current and emerging trends in library technologies (equipment and applications).

Ability to work in a busy environment with varying levels of noise and activity from people of all ages.

Commitment to excellent customer service with demonstrated enthusiasm, patience and flexibility when working with the public.

Experience with library automated systems (Sierra preferred); experience with other library software and resources; experience with office applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, social media and web development resources.

Ability to create positive working relationships and collaborate successfully with co-workers; ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

Demonstrated in depth knowledge of literature and programming trends for Children and Young Adults; broad knowledge of professional literature, bibliographic resources, and principles of information delivery and services.  

Demonstrated thorough working knowledge of library principles and procedures.

Familiarity with and support of Library Bill of Rights and ME privacy laws regarding patron confidentiality.

Familiarity with automated library systems, collections of both print and non-print resources, and current and emerging technologies and practices.

High degree of flexibility and ability to multi-task and frequently change focus in order to meet the varying needs of library users and the dynamic needs of public library service.

Ability to exercise good judgment; and possess conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.

Possess an ongoing commitment to professional development

Ability to hire, train, supervise and discipline employees, coordinate and delegate workloads and work schedules, evaluate work performance and maintain high standards of library service.

Self-direction, initiative, organization, motivation and attention to detail required. 

Salary is supplemented with a generous benefits package which includes a 401k plan with 6.5% matching funds.

Compensation is $60,000 - $69,000 dependent upon qualifications.

To apply for this position, please send a cover letter, resume and contact information for three professional references to Laurie Bouchard laurie@lbouchardllc.com.

***Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.***

For a complete job description, please see https://yorkpubliclibrary.org/employment/