Librarian - All Levels

About the Role

Springfield Public Schools is a cultural gem in Western Massachusetts committed to providing a learning environment that opens doors of infinite possibilities for students and staff. As the 3rd largest district in Massachusetts, we serve approximately 24,000 students with over 44 languages spoken and over 60 countries represented. We foster a positive and professional environment where people feel valued, respected, supported, seen, and heard, and are committed to equity and excellence.

We empower educators through competitive salaries, benefits, and numerous professional development opportunities shaped by data to ensure relevance and actionability. Our teaching staff receives support from instructional leadership specialists and effective educator coaches throughout the year in lesson planning, data analysis, and management. We offer career advancement opportunities and invest in "Grow our Own" and educational pipeline programs to help staff achieve college degrees or certification pathways.

Responsibilities

• Operate and supervise the school library.
• Evaluate, select, and requisition new library materials.
• Assist teachers in selecting books and instructional materials, making library resources available to supplement the instructional program.
• Inform teachers and staff about new library acquisitions.
• Maintain a comprehensive and efficient cataloging system for all library materials and instruct teachers and students on its use.
• Arrange for interlibrary loans of materials for teachers.
• Work with teachers to plan assignments that extend the use of library resources.
• Promote appropriate student conduct in the library.
• Help students develop independent reference skills and use reference materials for assignments.
• Present and discuss materials with classes studying specific topics, upon teacher invitation.
• Participate in curriculum meetings.
• Create frequently changing book-related displays and exhibits to engage patrons.
• Prepare and administer the library budget.
• Supervise library aides in their duties.
• Actively participate in library and other educational/professional associations at local, regional, state, and national levels.
• Oversee clerical routines to ensure smooth library operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; Master’s degree preferred.
• Licensed as a School Librarian or Unified Media Specialist (all grades) by the Massachusetts Department of Education, or in the process of licensure.
• Candidates with licensure in Elementary Education and knowledge of library operations may be considered but must document formal enrollment in an accredited program leading to Unified Media Specialist licensure.
• Recent preparation or coursework in contemporary methods and materials in library science.
• Ability to collaborate with principals, classroom teachers, parents, and students.
• Willingness to engage in professional reading and attend meetings to stay current in library operations.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries and benefits.
• Cutting-edge professional development opportunities shaped by district data.
• Support from instructional leadership specialists and effective educator coaches for lesson planning, data analysis, and management.
• Career advancement opportunities and "Grow our Own" programs to help staff achieve college degrees or certification pathways.