School Library & Literacy Specialist

School Library & Literacy Specialist

Position Summary

The School Library & Literacy Specialist is a full-time position responsible for the effective operation and management of the school library while fostering a strong culture of reading and literacy across the school. This position oversees the organization, circulation, cataloging, inventory, and development of the library collection; provides resources and support to teachers and students; and creates engaging opportunities that encourage students to become enthusiastic, lifelong readers.

The School Library & Literacy Specialist collaborates with faculty, administrators, students, and parents to ensure that the library is a welcoming, well-organized, and valuable resource for the entire school community.

Key Responsibilities

• Promotion of Literacy:Plan creative reading campaigns, book clubs, and interactive learning events.

• Student Engagement:Lead engaging story times and reading sessions for younger students.

• Curriculum Support:Collaborate with teachers to integrate modern literature, media literacy, and research skills into daily lessons.

• Modern Library Operations:Manage a tech-forward library space, digital archives, and collaborative maker-spaces.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Student Literacy and Engagement

• Foster a love of reading by creating an engaging and inviting library environment.

• Lead developmentally appropriate story times, read-alouds, and reading activities for students age 3 through 4th grade.

• Assist students in selecting books appropriate to their age, interests, abilities, and reading levels.

• Introduce students to a variety of authors, genres, cultures, topics, and perspectives through the library collection.

• Promote literacy through book displays, reading challenges, book recommendations, special events, and other creative initiatives.

• Support student book clubs, reading programs, author visits, and other literacy-focused activities as appropriate.

• Encourage students to develop independent reading habits and become lifelong learners.

• Help students develop appropriate research, information literacy, media literacy, and digital literacy skills.

Faculty and Curriculum Support

• Collaborate with teachers to support classroom instruction and curriculum through library resources and services.

• Assist teachers in locating appropriate fiction, nonfiction, reference materials, digital resources, and supplemental instructional materials.

• Recommend books and resources that support classroom learning, student interests, and individual reading needs.

• Work collaboratively with teachers to promote reading and literacy across grade levels.

• Support students and faculty in accessing and responsibly using digital information and media.

Library Operations and Collection Management

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the school library and maintain a welcoming, organized, and student-centered environment.

• Check books and other library materials in and out for students and faculty.

• Maintain accurate circulation records and follow appropriate procedures for overdue, lost, or damaged materials.

• Shelve books and library materials promptly and maintain an organized and accessible collection.

• Catalog new books and materials and maintain accurate records within the school's library management system.

• Maintain appropriate digital resources, databases, and other electronic library materials.

• Coordinate and manage two book fairs each school year in collaboration with the Parent Group.

Technology and Modern Library Resources

• Stay informed about current trends, resources, and best practices in school libraries, children's literature, literacy, and educational technology.

• Identify and recommend appropriate new technologies and resources that enhance the library program

• Utilize current library technology and digital resources to enhance student learning and access to information.

• Maintain and utilize the school's electronic library catalog and circulation system.

• Assist students and faculty with accessing digital library resources, databases, e-books, and other appropriate technology.

School Community and Professional Responsibilities

• Establish positive and professional relationships with students, faculty, administrators, parents, and volunteers.

• Maintain confidentiality regarding student and school information.

• Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and other school activities as appropriate.

• Support school-wide literacy initiatives and special events.

• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to assist with other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the appropriate administrator.

• Support and promote the mission, philosophy, Episcopal identity, and core values of All Saints Episcopal School.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher required.

• Degree in Library Science, Education, English, Reading, or a related field preferred.

• School library/media certification or valid teaching certificate preferred.

• Previous experience working in a school library, classroom, or educational setting preferred.

• Experience working with children and a strong knowledge of children's and young adult literature preferred.

• Experience with library management systems and educational technology preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated passion for reading, children's literature, literacy, and lifelong learning.

• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.

• Ability to effectively manage library circulation, cataloging, inventory, and collection responsibilities.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to engage students through storytelling, read-alouds, book recommendations, and literacy activities.

• Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers and other members of the school community.

• Proficiency with computers, library management systems, digital resources, and educational technology.

• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and projects while maintaining accuracy and organization.

• Creative, flexible, dependable, and proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Ability to create a warm, inclusive, and engaging environment for students of all ages.

• Commitment to the educational mission and values of All Saints Episcopal School.