Children’s Librarian or Children’s Library Associate (Full-Time)

Job Title: Children’s Librarian or Children’s Library Associate (Full-Time)
Location: Elizabeth Public Library – Various Branches
Reports To: Head of Youth Services
Hours: 35 hours per week, including evenings and weekends

Position Summary
The Elizabeth Public Library is seeking an enthusiastic, creative, and service-oriented Children’s Librarian or Children’s Library Associate to join our dynamic team. This position requires flexibility to work at any of our library branches and to support system-wide children’s services. The ideal candidate will have a passion for literacy, early childhood development, and community engagement, and will provide engaging programming, reference, and support to children and families.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, present, and evaluate storytimes, crafts, and other programs for children (birth–12) and their families.
• Provide reader’s advisory and reference services to children, caregivers, and educators.
• Collaborate with other children’s staff to develop and promote system-wide programs, including Summer Reading and STEM initiatives.
• Assist in the selection, maintenance, and weeding of children’s materials in print and digital formats.
• Visit schools, daycares, and community organizations to promote library services.
• Maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment in children’s areas.
• Stay current with trends in children’s literature, technology, and library services.
• Perform circulation duties and other branch-level responsibilities as needed.

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Library or Information Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution or enrollment in an MLS/MLIS program with anticipated graduation within six months.
• Experience working with children in a library or educational setting.
• Strong knowledge of children’s literature, early literacy principles, and programming techniques.
• Excellent communication, customer service, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-branch, team-oriented environment.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills reflective of the Elizabeth community.
• Experience with outreach or community engagement programs for children and families.
• Familiarity with digital resources, technology, and early literacy tools.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent public service and communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Comfort working with children and caregivers from diverse backgrounds.
• Flexibility, initiative, and strong problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and library databases.

Work Environment

• Requires travel between library branches.
• Must be available to work some evenings and weekends.

How to Apply
Please submit a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to:
Alex Laudisi, Assistant Director – alaudisi [at] elizpl.org (alaudisi[at]elizpl[dot]org)

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.