Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library invites applications for Preschool Specialist, a part-time position.
Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library is an award-winning library serving Bristol Borough and surrounding areas. Our mission is “Opening doors, inspiring minds, connecting community.” We achieve this through outstanding and personalized customer service, high quality programming, free and open access to technologies and the internet, specialized services to support research in the areas of local history, nonprofits and grantseeking, and active community outreach.
The Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library is funded by The Grundy Foundation, which also supports the Grundy Museum. For more information about the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library, visit our website at http://www.grundylibrary.org.
Primary Responsibilities: Reporting to the Community Services Manager, the Preschool Specialistdesigns and delivers literacy-based programs for children of all ages in library and outreach locations. Typical programming areas would include early literacy and emergent reader programs for babies, toddlers, preschool children and caregivers as well as literacy and STEM learning for preschool and school-age children, their caregivers, and families. Identify, select, and order materials to support programming. Schedule program sessions and identify, evaluate and assess program outcomes and related community needs. Design and create marketing materials to highlight programs and services. As a member of the Community Services department provides friendly professional customer service as it relates to information/reference, reader’s advisory, and related information services to all ages. Assists the public with the access and use of print and online resources, computers, mobile devices, and other technologies.
Other Duties:
Handles a variety of tasks related to circulation, reference, and instruction; assists with maintenance of library collection in all formats as needed; conducts online reference services; instructs the public on use of library services and information sources; prepares informational, instructional, and promotional materials; conducts tours and makes presentations to groups at both the Library and the adjacent Grundy Museum (late-Victorian house museum) as needed; enforces Library, Museum, and Foundation policies; acts as librarian-in-charge in the absence of library managers; performs other related duties assigned.
Requirements:
ALA-accredited Master’s Degree in library or information sciences, or a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Development or Education;
Minimum of two years working with children in a library, classroom, or preschool setting;
Extensive knowledge of popular and classic reading materials and media for young children;
Knowledge of best practices in library services to youth;
Knowledge of principles and practices of reference and reader’s advisory services;
Experience with public services and a commitment to excellent customer service;
Familiarity with online search strategies;
Fluency with personal computers and software, mobile devices, online databases, and integrated library systems (ILS);
Good stamina; ability to stand on feet and walk most of the day; easily operates computer keyboards, mice, printers, and other devices; ability to kneel, bend, stoop, and reach repeatedly; lift and carry library material weighing 30 lbs. and push book carts weighing 125 lbs.
Must have current driver’s license, insurance, and own transportation or ability to travel among outreach sites.
Preferred Qualifications:
Knowledge of Pennsylvania Learning Standards for Early Childhood;
Knowledge of Pennsylvania Core Standards;
Experience in a public library setting;
Experience with desktop design programs like Canva and Microsoft Publisher;
Experience with OCLC Wise or other Integrated Library System (ILS);
Experience with Power Library databases;
Ability to understand, speak, and write Spanish.
Skills Needed: Creative, outgoing,self-motivated and proactive; makes decisions based on good business practices and library philosophy; excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills; warm and approachable personality; tact, courtesy, and flexibility; initiative; commitment to public service. Strong technology skills, especially with computers and mobile devices, extensive experience with Windows operating systems, Microsoft 365, and online searching. Ability to adapt to a changing work environment.
All library positions require criminal background and child abuse clearances.
Hours: 20–22 hours per week on average – including evenings and weekends.
Preferred schedule: Mondays, 12:15pm-8:15pm; Tuesdays, 9:00am-1:00pm; Wednesdays, 9:00am-1:00pm; Thursdays, 9:00am-1:00pm; Saturdays (about once per month), 8:45am-4:15pm.
Compensation: $20-23 per hour (dependent on education and experience).
Application: Please submit current resume, three work references, and letter of introduction to Dana Barber, Library Director, Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library, 680 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA 19007 or email them to db@grundylibrary.org. Review of applications will begin immediately. Open until filled.
