Position Title

Library Media Specialist - Probationary

Required Application Type

Teacher / Admin

Job Description

The Plainedge Public School District is dedicated to providing a nurturing and innovative learning environment for students in grades K-5. We believe that a well-equipped library is essential to fostering a love of reading and supporting student success across all subject areas. Our library media specialist will possess an understanding of the importance of digital literacy in today's world, as we strive to equip our students with the skills they need to thrive in a digital age. As the Elementary School Library Media Specialist, you will serve as the heart of our school's literacy and information resource center. You will play a vital role in promoting digital literacy and responsible technology use among our students, as well as collaborate with teachers to integrate library resources into the curriculum, teach students critical information literacy skills, and promote a lifelong love of reading. This position offers an exciting opportunity to engage with young learners in innovative ways and empower them to become confident digital citizens while making a lasting impact on their educational journey. To support this mission, we are seeking a qualified, passionate, and dynamic individual to join our team as an Elementary School Library Media Specialist proficient in the Computer Science and Digital Fluency Standards.

Performance Responsibilities (may include, but are not limited to):

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the elementary school library, including cataloging, circulation, and collection development.
• Coordinate with building administration to ensure the library budget is utilized in a fiscally responsible manner to support the building's needs.

• Collaborate with classroom teachers to design and implement lessons that integrate library resources, support curriculum objectives, and digital media into the curriculum and design lessons that promote digital literacy skills.
• Teach information literacy skills, including research techniques, digital citizenship, responsible use of technology, and how to evaluate and critically analyze digital information, including distinguishing between reliable and unreliable sources.
• Provide instruction on digital citizenship, including online safety, privacy, and responsible social media use.
• Promote a culture of reading by organizing book clubs, author visits, and other literacy-focused events.
• Assist students in selecting books and other materials that match their interests and reading levels.
• Maintain a welcoming and inclusive library environment, that supports student interests based on circulation reports.
• Support students in using technology tools for research, multimedia projects, and creative expression.
• Stay informed about emerging trends in children's literature and best practices in digital media and incorporate them into library programming.
• Assist teachers in implementing technology-rich learning experiences and troubleshooting technical issues as needed.
• Foster a culture of innovation and experimentation by providing opportunities for students to explore new digital tools and technologies.
• Collaborate with parents and community members to promote literacy, digital literacy,  and the use of library resources for families.
• Participate in school and district committees as needed and represent the library program at school events.

Job Qualifications

Candidates must possess a New York State Library Media Specialist Certification.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in library science, library and information science, or a related field.
• Valid state certification/licensure as a school library media specialist.
• Experience working with elementary-aged students in a library or educational setting.
• Strong knowledge of children's literature across genres and reading levels.
• Proficiency in Computer Science and Digital Fluency Standards Standards and familiarity with educational technology tools.
• Familiarity with library management systems and educational technology tools.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Passion for promoting literacy and a love of reading among students.

Job Category

Teacher

Job Location

Charles E. Schwarting Elementary

Additional Information