Children's Librarian, Abbot Public Library (Marblehead)
Spark curiosity, foster discovery, and lead with passion. Abbot Public Library is seeking a dynamic Children’s Librarian who thrives on community connection and hands-on programming. If you have a deep love for children's literature and a passion for serving patrons up to 13 years old, we want you on our team.
Under the direction of the Library Director, the Children’s Librarian is responsible for the strategic vision, daily management, and delivery of all children’s library services (serving ages birth to 12). This role encompasses collection development, supervision of department personnel, reference and readers' advisory, and the design and execution of vibrant, inclusive programming and community outreach.
Located along Massachusetts’ historic North Shore, Marblehead is a picturesque coastal peninsula town of roughly 20,400 residents. Famous for its maritime roots, historic architecture, and scenic harbor, it’s a deeply connected community that values education, history, culture, and its public spaces.
Whether you are connecting with young families at storytime or collaborating with educators and creative minds, you'll find a welcoming home and a highly appreciative audience here.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Plans, organizes, and supervises the daily operations of the Children’s Department. Collects data for annual reports.
Performs specialized reference work for children and provides expert reader’s advisory guidance to parents, caregivers, and educators regarding children’s literature, literacy development, and research tools.
Designs, promotes and delivers innovative and specialized programs including story hours, early literacy initiatives, and sensory-based or hands-on interactive activities.
Participates in the development of library-wide policies for children. Assists the Library Director in preparing the annual materials and program budgets for the children’s department and responsibly maintains expenditures within the approved allocation.
Selects, evaluates, and manages all children’s books, media, and digital resources, building an inclusive collection guided by a commitment to both narrative excellence and diverse perspectives.
Assigns daily duties, coordinates schedules in collaboration with the Assistant Director, and supervises the work of library personnel and volunteers assigned to the department.
Initiates and maintains robust cooperative outreach programs with local elementary schools, preschools, and community organizations. Conducts school visits, hosts class visits to the library, and provides instruction on library resources.
Promotes children's services and library visibility through engaging exhibits, thematic displays, curated reading lists, and targeted digital publicity or social media outreach.
Utilizes the library's Integrated Library System (ILS) efficiently.
Stays current with emerging trends by reading professional literature and representing the library at regional and state professional meetings.
Performs other duties of a similar nature and complexity as directed by library leadership.
Qualifications
Required Background & Qualifications
Master’s Degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited library school.
Three to five years of professional, related library experience, with a proven focus on youth services or children's operations.
Core Competencies & Skills
Deep knowledge of children’s literature, publishing trends, and child development principles, with a strong background in early childhood or early literacy programming.
Exceptional communication and customer service skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse public and foster a welcoming, inclusive environment.
Proficiency with standard computer applications, electronic databases, internet research, and social media. A solid understanding of current and emerging library technologies and modern programming trends for children.
Highly flexible and organized, with the ability to manage multiple competing priorities, welcome organizational growth, and thrive in a high-volume public service environment.
Ability to bend, reach, sit, and stand for extended periods as required to maintain the department and assist patrons.
Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes regular evening and weekend shifts.
Full/Part Time
Full Time
Education
MLS/Masters
Salary Range
$1,204.64 - $1,469.66 / week
Salary Notes
Grade 6 in 8 steps
Closing Date
August 11, 2026
How to Apply
Please visit the Town of Marblehead website here:
https://marblehead.bamboohr.com/careers/87
Posted
2026-06-30