SHREWSBURY PUBLIC LIBRARY

HEAD OF CHILDREN'S SERVICES

 

Definition
Professional administrative, supervisory and direct service work coordinating and managing the children’s collection, programs and activities; all other related work, as required.
 

Supervision
Works under the general direction of the Library Director.

Performs professional library functions of a responsible nature, involving substantial judgment and initiative in designing programs, developing the children’s collection, and supervising children’s activities. Issues involving policy decisions are referred to the Library Director.
 

Supervisory Responsibilities
Supervises one full-time employee, as well as part-time staff and seasonal volunteers.
 

Work Environment
Work is performed primarily in the Children’s Room, where the noise level is loud; the workload is subject to seasonal fluctuations which require advance planning; regular library schedule requires evening and weekend work.

The employee operates standard library equipment.

The employee has regular contact with library patrons, staff, schools and the news media to obtain and provide information; contact is in person, by telephone, e-mail and in writing.

The employee has access to confidential patron records.

Errors are easily detected and corrected, but could result in delay of services.
 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Develops and maintains all aspects of the children’s collection, including books, periodicals, audio-visual and multi-media materials.

Develops and coordinates programming for children, including story times, summer reading and crafts programs, after school programs and special events; plans and develops related public relations materials; coordinates services and programs with outside agencies.

Responsible for the daily operation of the children’s department, including supervision of staff and library pages; participates in the recruitment and training of new employees; ensures proper supervision of children and general public safety; ensures proper response to emergency situations, as necessary.

Provides reference and reader advisory services for children and staff; responds to inquiries on procedures, in person and by telephone; provides direction, information and instruction.

Provides training and assistance to patrons and staff in the use of computer hardware and software and the Internet.

Maintains departmental budget for materials and programming.

Writes correspondence, press releases, policies, procedures and grant applications; procures and administers grants; speaks to community groups and provides information to the news media.

Assists the Library Director in the development of goals and objectives; serves on various internal committees.

Attends informational and instructional meetings and workshops related to library operations and children’s services.

Performs additional supervisory duties, in the absence of the Director and Assistant Director.

Performs similar or related work as required, or as situation dictates.
 

Recommended Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience
Master's Degree in information studies; three years of professional library experience; experience in children's services; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill
Knowledge of library policies and procedures, including automated circulation systems and information technology. Knowledge of, and sensitivity to, the special needs of children. Familiarity with children’s literature; basic knowledge of child development.

Ability to interact tactfully and appropriately with library patrons, especially children. Ability to work independently and manage numerous, diverse tasks at one time. Ability to develop and implement programs. Ability to handle problem patrons and emergencies effectively.