Children's Librarian (FT) - West Deptford Free Public Library

West Deptford Free Public Library
Reports To: Library Manager
Hours: 35 hours per week, including evenings and Saturdays

Position Summary
The West Deptford Free Public Library is seeking an imaginative, enthusiastic, and service-oriented Children’s Librarian to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a passion for literacy, early childhood development, and community engagement, and will provide engaging programming and support to children and families.

The West Deptford Free Public Library serves a population of 22,500. The library is a member of LOGIN (Libraries of Gloucester, Salem, and Cumberland Information Network), a consortium, or cooperative group, of twenty-three (23) public, associate, and academic libraries.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and present story times, crafts, and other programs, including Summer Reading, for children (birth–12) and their families.
• Provide reader’s advisory and reference services to children, caregivers, and educators.
• Develop, manage, and maintain the children’s collection in print and digital formats.
• Represent the library at community events, and visit schools, daycares, and other community organizations to promote library services.
• Set up, maintain, and clean program spaces, materials, and equipment.
• Maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment in children’s area.
• Stay current with trends in children’s literature, technology, and library services.
• Prepare grant materials in cooperation with other professional staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

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.
• New Jersey State Professional Librarian’s Certificate, or the ability to obtain such.
• The ability to read, write, and speak the English language sufficiently to perform the duties of this position.
• The selected candidate must comply with the “NJ First Act.” Candidate must live in New Jersey or move to New Jersey within a year of being hired.
• Experience working with children in a library or educational setting.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Two years of experience as a professional librarian working with children in a public library preferred.
• Knowledge of children’s literature, early literacy principles, and programming techniques.
• Excellent communication, customer service, and interpersonal skills.
• 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 skills.
• Comfortable working with children and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Flexibility, initiative, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365, and library databases.

Work Environment

• Must be available to work some evenings and some Saturdays.
• Must be able to lift up to 25lbs.

How to Apply
Please submit a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to:
Jenna McAndrews, Library Director – jmcandrews [at] westdeptford.lib.nj.us (jmcandrews[at]westdeptford[dot]lib[dot]nj[dot]us), please indicate “Children’s Librarian” in subject line.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Only candidates of interest will be contacted.