Posted: 02-Jan-25
Location: Augusta, Georgia
Type: Full Time
Categories:
Preferred Education:
DESCRIPTION OF ROLE
Episcopal Day School, a respected independent day school in Augusta, Georgia, serving PreK-8 students since 1944, seeks a dedicated and innovative Library Media Specialist for the 2025-2026 academic year. We are looking for an enthusiastic educator passionate about fostering a love of reading, supporting student learning, and enhancing access to diverse resources. The ideal candidate will manage the library collection, teach research and information literacy skills, and collaborate with faculty to integrate these skills into the curriculum. The librarian will also connect with families and the school community by organizing events like book fairs, author visits, and literary fundraisers, while keeping up with the latest trends in literature and library services. Join us in creating a dynamic and engaging library environment that fosters learning, curiosity, and a lifelong love of reading!
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Library Collection & Budget Management:
- Curate, manage and update the library’s books, digital resources, and materials collection.
- Develop and manage the library budget, ensuring funds are allocated for new acquisitions and technology.
- Organize and maintain physical and digital library spaces for easy access to resources.
Instruction & Research Skills:
- Teach research skills, including locating, evaluating, and using resources effectively.
- Lead literacy and research instruction for K-8 students, fostering a love of reading.
- Collaborate with teachers to design research-based assignments and integrate library resources into school projects.
Collaboration with Teachers:
- Partner with classroom teachers to incorporate library resources into instruction.
- Develop instructional tools, research guides, and workshops.
- Support interdisciplinary projects through collaborative planning and resource sharing.
Parent & Community Engagement:
- Organize school events such as book fairs, author visits, and fundraisers.
- Communicate regularly with parents about library activities and recommended resources.
- Involve school volunteers to support library initiatives.
Professional Development & Trends:
- Stay current on library science trends, literature, and educational technology.
- Provide faculty updates on copyright laws, library trends, and instructional resources.
- Attend conferences and workshops to enhance library services.
Technology Integration:
- Incorporate technology into library instruction using digital tools and apps.
- Help students and staff navigate digital resources and online databases.
Advocacy & Promotion:
- Promote the library as a hub for academic and personal enrichment.
- Encourage independent reading through book recommendations, reading challenges, and thematic programs.
- Advocate for the library’s role in supporting educational goals.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND QUALITIES
Education:
- A bachelor’s degree in education or a related field
- School Library Media Specialist certification
Experience:
- 1-3 years of experience in an educational library setting
- Experience managing library collections, budgets, and events.
- Familiarity with library technology systems, cataloging, and digital learning platforms.
- Background in teaching research skills and supporting project-based learning.
Skills:
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency with the Follett Operating System and TitleWave.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, students, and parents.
- Strong knowledge of children’s and young adult literature.
- Understanding of copyright laws, intellectual property, and fair use in education.
- Ability to create engaging lesson plans and interactive library programs.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Master of Library Science (MLS)
- Bachelor's or Master’s in Education combined with an MLIS, emphasizing educational pedagogy and student learning support.