Middle School Librarian

Job Description

Summary

The Albuquerque Academy Library is seeking an individual for the position of Middle School Librarian. This position is responsible for being an instructional partner, an information specialist, and a library leader. As the primary provider of library services to students and teachers in the 6-7 and 8-9 divisions, the Middle School Librarian models and fosters lifelong reading and learning, and supports the missions of both the library and the school. They engage with students to encourage joyful reading and effective use of information, collaborate with faculty, and use professional expertise in the evaluation, selection, acquisition, and organization of information resources and technologies. Strong candidates are attracted to our mission and see themselves as engaged community members. As part of the library team, the Middle School Librarian strives to provide an environment in which students:

• feel empowered to explore their curiosity, make discoveries, and experience moments of joy. 
• have the resources and skills they need to be their best selves, both at Albuquerque Academy and in the broader world.
• feel safe, welcome, and respected at the library.

All employees at Albuquerque Academy approach their work in accordance with the values in our mission and in a spirit of kindness, professionalism, generosity, and civility to all members of the community. Our community norms, listed below, underlie our school culture, and all community members are expected to commit themselves fully to them.

• Value and respect the diverse contributions of each person in the community.
• Assume positive intent and inquire if you are left with questions or concerns.
• Engage in face-to-face direct conversations; be clear, open, and honest in your conversations.
• Be present and participate.

Albuquerque Academy seeks to maintain a diverse and energetic staff to work on campus. We encourage applications from groups traditionally underrepresented in independent school communities. The position is open until filled, and applicants are asked to submit a letter of interest and resume along with their online application. Please explain why Albuquerque Academy is the right fit for you and detail your passion for the position.

 Essential Functions

• Collaborate with faculty primarily in the 6-7 and 8-9 divisions, as well as faculty working in the k-8 summer session, to develop curriculum, curate resources, provide instruction, and enrich programming. 
• Promote use of the library and librarian support to the division teachers.
• Support and empower students in the process of locating, interpreting, evaluating, and applying information, including the use of both print and digital resources.  
• Use timely and extensive knowledge of middle grade and young adult literature to connect students to books and promote joyful recreational reading.
• Curate resources for faculty, students, and community groups.
• Maintain the portion of the library’s collection of books and materials (print, digital, audio, audiovisual) primarily used by sixth through ninth grade students and summer session students. This work includes selecting, ordering, and receiving new items; reviewing the collection to remove outdated material; and responsibly and accurately managing collection expenditures.
• Assist in the selection of products and services, such as subscription databases, which benefit student learning and research. 
• Promote the ethical use of information.
• Support the school and its mission, always maintaining a high degree of professionalism.
• Model life-long learning by engaging in professional and personal growth through sustained continuing education.
• Foster and maintain a culture of mutual respect, equitable practice, and joy. 
• Demonstrate cultural competence and communicate and collaborate effectively across differences.

Other Responsibilities

• Perform typical library duties, as assigned.
• Attend staff meetings, school wide trainings, and Library Team meetings as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications

Education

• A Master’s degree in Library Science or Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited institution is required.

Experience

• Minimum two years of experience as a Middle School Librarian is preferred.
• Previous experience teaching in a secondary school classroom or library is preferred. 
• Previous experience in database and research skill instruction, collection development, reference service, and readers’ advisory preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Ability to use library management software, content management and curation platforms, subscription databases, and standard office software.
• Knowledge of current middle grade and young adult literature.

Special Requirements

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Working Environment

• Majority of work is performed in an indoor setting in the campus Library.
• Work hours are generally 8:00 a.m. to 4:30pm, but special hours may be required on occasion.

Physical Demands

• Prolonged sitting and computer use
• Prolonged standing and walking
• Regular lifting, pushing, and reaching 

EEO/ADA Compliance

Albuquerque Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Academy will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.