Teens' Instructor & Research Specialist (Part-time)

Howard County Library System•Laurel, MD

1d•$26 - $46•Onsite

About The Position

This part-time role is for a Teen Instructor and Research Specialist who will be part of a team serving teen communities. The position involves welcoming customers, creating a sense of belonging, and planning classes and events. The specialist will be a point of contact for queries and encourage lifelong learning goals, aiming to create memorable customer experiences. A commitment to inclusion, diversity, respect, and education that dismantles unjust systems and creates a more equitable society is essential. Candidates from traditionally underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply. The role offers a friendly, collaborative work environment.

Requirements

Four-year college degree
1 to 3 years of professional experience instructing, supervising, or leading teen groups
1 year of teaching experience (not limited to a classroom setting)
People skills – ability to work effectively with staff and customers of various races and ethnicities and enjoy it
Exemplifies extraordinary and inclusive customer service, demonstrating an interest in working with the public, especially teens
Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective, collaborative working relationships
Demonstrated ability to engage teen customers with an enthusiastic, friendly, and approachable attitude
Great organizational and planning skills
Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines
Demonstrated ability to analyze and solve problems, to develop new processes and procedures in response to changing customer expectations and system-wide goals
Excellent communication skills, both written and oral
Knowledgeable about the community and current events
Tech-savvy – ability to use programs/processes such as the Internet, electronic databases, office applications, social networking applications, and gaming as well as other library-related programs
Current valid driver’s license
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, squat, reach, and push/pull carts.
Ability to perform strenuous activity, such as carrying bags or boxes of books or arranging rooms for classes and events.
Some driving may be required.

Nice To Haves

Enjoy teen's frenetic energy and silly humor
Enjoy mentoring teens
Love that they are serious and thoughtful about their world
Outgoing personality and engage well with others
Love the hunt for information. Persevere
Warm, friendly, and patient
Confident and knowledgeable about technology
May be required to participate in LATI (Library Associate Training Institute)

Responsibilities

Plan, teach, and facilitate engaging, participatory classes, events, seminars, and workshops that reflect teen interests and input.
Patiently deliver research assistance to customers in person, by telephone, or other electronic means.
Develop creative teen projects with the assistance of the Teen Curriculum Coordinator and Head of Children and Teens’ Curriculum.
Maintain the Teen collection with fresh displays for varied interests.
Actively participate on a committee of passionate Teens’ Instructors to plan teen seminars, events, and classes.
Create a fun space in the library where teens want to come and be together.
Collaborate with staff to assist in engaging teens visiting after school.
Share expansive knowledge of technology such as the Internet, electronic databases, office applications, social networking applications, and gaming, as well as other library-related programs.
Visit schools to teach A+ Partners in Education classes, share passion through book promotions, and provide e-resources for high school students and staff, acting as A+ Partnership liaison to middle and high schools.
Work closely with community representatives to promote HCLS.
Work at any HCLS Customer Service or Research Desk.
Assist with closing and building security as assigned.
Grow professionally by participating in professional training.
Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
Step up when needed to perform other duties and special projects as assigned.
Adhere to all policies and procedures.