PS & LS Library Media Specialist

General Summary :

Supports and aligns the School's mission through developing and administering a school library media program in the PS/LS. Serves the roles of teacher, instructional partner, and information specialist. In fulfilling these roles, the LMS works collaboratively with school administration and faculty to develop a library program that supports the curriculum; provides instructional leadership for the teaching of literacy skills; develops and maintains a media center collection rich in both print and non‐print materials, and manages the media center as a flexible, multi‐task learning environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Develops a PS/LS library program that addresses learning and innovation, media and technology literacy, and life and career development. Empowers all members of the community to become critical thinkers, enthusiastic readers, skillful researchers, curators, and ethical users of information. Conduct outreach activities to engage families and the community in library events and services. Collaborates and co-teach with classroom teachers and specialists as a partner in the instructional process, to ensure that information literacy skills are embedded systematically throughout the PS/LS curriculum. Creates and maintains a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and inviting learning environment that fosters intellectual inquiry. Establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to achieve an optimal learning environment. Develops and maintains an updated diverse collection of print and non-print resources appropriate to the curriculum, learners and instructional strategies to reflect students' interests. Provides leadership and expertise to integrate educational technology tools and resources into library programs to enhance learning experiences, promote digital literacy, and facilitate access to information in various formats. Teach students how to locate, evaluate, and ethically use information, fostering critical thinking and inquiry skills necessary for academic success and lifelong learning. Encourages reading in traditional and innovative ways such as social media, digital media, and print, while instilling a love of learning in all students and ensures equitable access to information and resources. Models and promotes the ethical use of digital citizenship: copyright, fair use, and licensing of intellectual property. Serves as an advocate and a resource for the School's library programs and services by utilizing a variety of communication and technology tools, in alignment with the School's mission and strategic plan. Manages and adheres to the PS/LS library budget, prepares reports, and maintains documentation for all resources/material orders. Manage physical and virtual library operations, including cataloging, circulation, and inventory management, ensuring efficient access to resources and maintaining an organized and welcoming library environment. Stays informed about current trends and best practices in library science, education, and children's literature through professional development opportunities, conferences, and networking with peers. Attends and participates in professional meetings, including collaborative teams and PS/LS meetings. Maintains frequent and timely communication with the community stakeholders. Works with community partners and administration to organize author visits. Completes other tasks as deemed appropriate by the PS/LS Administration.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Extensive knowledge and understanding of the concepts, principles, and methodologies of teaching and learning, and of current best practices in library and information science. Outstanding customer service and interpersonal skills. Ability and desire to serve as an advisor to a small group of students. Ability to differentiate instruction in mixed ability classrooms. Strong understanding of PS/LS students and developmental differences between grades. Passion for PS/LS and literature. Strong classroom management skills with the ability and the desire to work with a diverse student body. Ability to work collaboratively with others and maintain positive professional relationships. Ability to read, comprehend, follow and give oral and written instructions. Ability to use and optimize resources effectively. Excellent writing and communication skills. Excellent organizational skills with a strong degree of self- direction and motivation. High level of maturity, confidentiality, and assertiveness. Capable of using tact and diplomacy in dealing with others. Highly skilled in operating technology.

Education and Experience:

Master's Degree in Library/ Information Science preferably from an ALA-accredited library program. WI DPI Library Media Specialist 1902 license (preferred). 3-5 years' experience in PS/LS teaching and library experience grades PK-5. Experience with educational technology. Experience with coaching (preferred).