Middle School Librarian 0.25FTE

Springfield Public Schools•Springfield, MA

About The Position

Springfield Public Schools is a cultural gem in Western Massachusetts that is committed to providing a learning environment that opens the doors of infinite possibilities to our amazing students and staff. We strive to equip each of our approximately 24,000 students with learning experiences that enhance their knowledge and critical thinking skills. We are the 3 rd largest district in Massachusetts. Our district has over 44 languages spoken and over 60 countries represented by both students and staff. We foster a positive and professional environment in our schools and worksites where people feel valued, respected, supported, seen and heard. Our students and staff share their ideas and perspectives, learning from and appreciating each other. We are a district that is committed to equity and excellence. Join a team that Empowers Educators In addition to offering competitive salaries and benefits, we provide numerous cutting-edge professional development opportunities for all staff. We let our data shape the professional development of the district, therefore, it is relevant and actionable. We support our teaching staff with mentors such as instructional leadership specialists and effective educator coaches to work with them throughout the year in lesson planning, data analysis and management. Our district offers career advancement opportunities and is invested in “Grow our Own” and educational pipeline programs. These programs help our staff achieve a college degree or lead to certification pathways.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Licensed as a School Librarian or Unified Media Specialist (all grades) by the Massachusetts Department of Education, or in the process of licensure.
Recent preparation, or coursework, in contemporary methods and materials in the field of library science.
Ability to work with principals, classroom teachers, parents and students.
A willingness to do professional reading of research and to attend meetings designed to keep up to date in library operations.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Candidates with licensure by the Massachusetts Department of Education in Elementary Education and knowledgeable of library operations MAY be considered for the position but MUST document formal enrollment as soon as possible into an accredited program leading to licensure as a Unified Media Specialist by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Responsibilities

Operates and supervises the school library.
Evaluates, selects, and requisitions new library materials.
Assists teachers in the selection of books and other instructional materials, and make library materials available to supplement the instructional program.
Informs teachers and other staff members concerning new materials the library acquires.
Maintains a comprehensive and efficient system for cataloging all library materials, and instructs teachers and students on use of the system.
Arranges for interlibrary loan of materials of interest or use to teachers.
Works with teachers in planning those assignments likely to lead to extended use of library resources.
Promotes appropriate conduct of students using library facilities.
Helps students to develop habits of independent reference work and to develop skill in the use of reference materials in relation to planned assignments.
Presents and discusses materials with a class studying a particular topic, on the invitation of the teacher.
Participates in curriculum meetings.
Arranges frequently changing book-related displays and exhibits likely to interest the library’s patrons.
Prepares and administers the library budget.
Supervises library aides in the performance of their duties.
Participates actively in library and other educational and professional associations on the local, regional, state, and national level.
Supervises the clerical routines necessary for the smooth operation of the library.