Children’s Librarian

Industry:
Education
Last Updated:
July 19, 2023

Job Description Overview

A Children’s Librarian job description is an exciting career path in the Education industry that involves working with young learners and inspiring their love of reading. As a Children’s Librarian, your role is to create a welcoming and educational environment for children of all ages. You will be responsible for selecting and organizing books, media, and other resources that are suitable for children. You will lead storytelling sessions, reading programs, and other events to engage and inspire kids to develop their love of learning.

You'll work closely with parents, teachers, and other professionals to develop literacy skills, provide homework support, and contribute to the community. You'll also be a wealth of knowledge on current literature for kids and help families find new and exciting books that children will love. Delivering programs that encourage children to read, learn and grow is a fulfilling and meaningful job that makes a difference every day.

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Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Select and purchase books, magazines, and digital media for children of various ages and reading levels.
  • Plan and lead interactive and educational library programs, such as storytime, book clubs, and craft activities for kids.
  • Promote the library and reading among children and parents through outreach and collaborations with schools, community organizations, and local businesses.
  • Assist children and their caregivers with finding and using library resources, including books, online databases, and technology.
  • Maintain a welcoming and safe environment for children, including monitoring behavior and enforcing library policies.
  • Collaborate with colleagues and library administration to develop and implement library policies, strategic plans, and budgets related to children's services.
  • Continuously learn and keep up-to-date on current trends, issues, and best practices in children's librarianship through professional development and networking opportunities.
  • Advocate for literacy and intellectual freedom for children, and support diversity and inclusion in library collections and services.
  • Evaluate and assess the effectiveness and impact of children's library programs and services, and use data to inform decision making and improvements.

Experience and Education Requirements

To become a Children's Librarian in the Education industry, you'll usually need a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Library Science, Education or a related field. Many employers also require certification, so you'll need to check your state's specific licensing requirements. Experience working with children, either in a library or educational setting, is also important. You may need to demonstrate your knowledge of children's literature and expertise in developing and implementing age-appropriate programming. Other skills that can be helpful include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, creativity, leadership ability, and a passion for working with kids. Additionally, staying current with trends and developments in library science, education, and technology is vital for success in this field.

Salary Range

Looking to become a Children’s Librarian and wondering about the salary range? According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for librarians in May 2020 was $60,820. However, Salary.com states that the median salary for Children's Librarians in the U.S. is around $50,000, with the top 10% earning over $66,000.

In other countries, the salary range for Children’s Librarians may vary. For example, in the UK, a Children’s Librarian can expect to earn between £22,000 and £35,000 per year, according to Prospects.ac.uk.

It's important to note that salaries will vary depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and the type of institution in which a Children’s Librarian works. However, working as a Children’s Librarian can be a fulfilling and rewarding career path that offers opportunities to positively impact young minds.

Sources:

  • United States Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/librarians.htm#tab-5
  • Salary.com: https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/childrens-librarian-salary
  • Prospects.ac.uk: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/librarian#salary

Career Outlook

The career outlook for a Children's Librarian in the Education industry is growing! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of librarians is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This is due to the continued need for librarians to manage libraries and help patrons find information. Additionally, as more children's literature is published and libraries focus on serving their communities, the demand for Children's Librarians will continue to grow.

 

In order to become a Children's Librarian, typically a Master's degree in Library Science is required. However, there are many other opportunities to gain experience and start working in libraries without this degree. Whether you choose to advance your education or gain experience in other ways, the outlook is positive for those interested in a career as a Children's Librarian.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is a Children’s Librarian?

A: A Children’s Librarian is a professional in the Education industry who helps children and young adults find and access books, media, and resources to support their learning and development.

Q: What does a Children’s Librarian do?

A: A Children’s Librarian plans and delivers programs, services, and activities that encourage children to read, learn, and explore the world around them.

Q: What education or training do I need to become a Children’s Librarian?

A: Typically, a Children’s Librarian will have earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education or English and may also have a Master’s degree in Library Science or a related field.

Q: What skills do I need to have to become a Children’s Librarian?

A: Some skills that are essential for a Children’s Librarian include excellent communication skills, a love of reading and knowledge of children’s literature, creative and strategic thinking, and knowledge of library technology.

Q: What is the outlook for jobs in the Children’s Librarian field?

A: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for Librarians is expected to decline slightly over the next several years as more resources become available online. However, the need for Children’s Librarians at schools and public libraries is likely to remain steady.


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