How to Be Childrens Services Librarian - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 10, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The role of a Children's Services Librarian is crucial to the development of young minds and the success of local libraries. By providing resources and programming for children, these librarians help foster a love of learning and reading in young people. These services also ensure that children have access to the information they need to grow and thrive in the world.

This access to knowledge and resources can have long-term positive effects, such as improved academic performance, career success, and a greater appreciation of literature and the arts. Furthermore, these services also boost library patronage and community engagement, creating an environment which encourages literacy and education.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. To become a children's services librarian, you must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Most librarians have degrees in library science, but other degrees such as English, history, or education may also be acceptable.
Earn a Master's Degree. Most librarians will need to obtain a master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) to become a children's services librarian. This type of degree program typically takes two years to complete and will require courses such as collection development, library technology, cataloging, and reference services.
Obtain Certification. Most states require librarians to obtain certification or licensure in order to work in the field. Requirements vary by state but may include passing an exam, completing a minimum number of hours of work experience, or completing continuing education courses.
Get Experience. Working in a library as a volunteer or in an entry-level position can help you gain the necessary experience to become a children's services librarian. You may also be able to find internships or part-time positions at local libraries or other educational institutions.
Build Your Skills. To become a successful children's services librarian, you must be knowledgeable about children's literature and have the ability to work with children of all ages. You should also have strong organizational and research skills, as well as excellent customer service skills.

The decline in childrens services librarians has significant effects on the community. The lack of qualified professionals to fill these positions can lead to a decrease in library services, resources, and programs specifically tailored for children, which can have a ripple effect on the development of childrens literacy and education. With fewer qualified librarians available, many libraries struggle to develop and provide quality programs for their youngest patrons, leading to a decrease in the amount of exposure and access young people have to the world of books, stories, and educational activities.

This can have a detrimental effect on the literacy levels of children, impeding their academic progress and impacting their future development. To ensure that our youth have access to quality library services and resources, it is essential that libraries have access to qualified and passionate Children's Services Librarians.

You may want to check Technical Support Specialist, Chief Librarian, and Special Collections Librarian for alternative.

Job Description

Develop and implement childrens programming, such as story time and special events.
Research, select and review materials for the library collection, including books, magazines, audio and video recordings, computer software, and other materials appropriate for children.
Provide reference and readers advisory services to children and parents.
Collaborate with other library staff, community organizations, and schools to identify and respond to the needs of children and families.
Create displays and other promotional materials to promote library services, materials, and events.
Instruct children in the use of library resources and technologies.
Participate in professional activities to maintain knowledge of current trends in library services for children.
Prepare reports and statistics on library services for children.
Provide direction and guidance to library assistants and volunteers working with children's services.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent customer service skills
Knowledge of library resources and services
Knowledge of library classification systems
Strong research and reference skills
Ability to develop and implement programming and services for children
Knowledge of child development and literacy
Knowledge of copyright and intellectual property law
Knowledge of local and state laws and regulations related to library services
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to use computer software and technology
Ability to supervise, mentor, and train staff
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
Ability to problem solve, multitask, and manage time effectively
Ability to remain flexible in a changing environment
Ability to maintain accurate records and manage data

Having a strong background in children's services is key for any Children's Services Librarian. This includes a deep understanding of the needs and interests of children, knowledge of the latest trends in children's literature, familiarity with the library's collection, and excellent customer service skills. having a good understanding of the library's policies, procedures, and resources can help children's librarians develop programming and services that meet the needs of their patrons.

Lastly, a willingness to collaborate with other librarians and community stakeholders is essential to ensure that the library is providing relevant and engaging services to children in the community. All of these skills are essential in providing the best possible experience to the children and families who visit the library.

Library Aide, Library Webmaster, and Library Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with children and young adults?
How have you incorporated technology into your work with children and teens?
What methods do you use to encourage children to read?
How do you foster a love of reading in children and teens?
What strategies do you use to help children select appropriate materials?
Describe your experience developing and delivering childrens programming.
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in childrens literature?
What experience do you have working with diverse populations?
How would you handle a difficult situation involving a child or teen patron?
What interests you about working as a Childrens Services Librarian?

Common Tools in Industry

Library Management System (LMS). A software system used to manage library collections, catalogs, member accounts, and circulation. (eg: Koha)
Digital Asset Management (DAM) System. A software system for organizing, storing, and retrieving digital assets such as images and videos. (eg: Cumulus)
Discovery System. A software system which allows users to search a librarys collections from a single interface. (eg: Primo)
Online Learning Platform. A platform for delivering online educational content and instruction. (eg: Blackboard)
Cataloging Software. A software system for organizing and managing library resources. (eg: SirsiDynix Symphony)
Automated Materials Handling System. A system for automating the sorting and shelving of library materials. (eg: Bibliotheca I-Flow)
RFID System. A system for tracking and managing library materials using radio frequency identification tags. (eg: 3M RFID Library System)
Content Management System (CMS). A software system for managing web content. (eg: WordPress)
Reference Software. A software system for helping patrons find answers to their questions. (eg: QuestionPoint)
Social Media Platforms. Platforms for managing library presence on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. (eg: Hootsuite)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Library Association
Special Library Association
Public Library Association
Association for Library Service to Children
Young Adult Library Services Association
International Association of School Librarianship
International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions
Association for Library and Information Science Education
Association of College and Research Libraries
Association of Children's Librarians of Northern California

We also have Community Engagement Coordinator, Research and Instructional Design Specialist, and Technical Services Librarian jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Shelving. The act of organizing and sorting library materials into specific order, usually by call number or subject.
Collection Development. The process of selecting and acquiring library materials, including books, periodicals, databases, videos, and other media.
Reference Services. Services provided by librarians to help users find and use information resources. These services may include research assistance, readers advisory, bibliographic instruction, and more.
Literacy Programs. Programs that promote reading and literacy among children and adults. These programs are often implemented in public libraries.
Programming. Events planned and hosted by libraries to engage and educate the public. These events can include book clubs, author talks, movie screenings, and more.
Cataloging. The process of recording information about a librarys materials, including title, author, subject, format, and call number.
Outreach. The act of bringing library services and resources to people who may not have easy access to a library building or who may not be aware of the services available to them.
Circulation. The process of managing the borrowing and returning of library materials, including checking out books, tracking renewals and overdue items, and enforcing library policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Children's Services Librarian? A1: A Children's Services Librarian is a professional librarian who specializes in providing library services to children, including selecting and organizing childrens books, developing programs and activities for children, and assisting children with research and recreational reading. Q2: What type of qualifications are needed to become a Children's Services Librarian? A2: To become a Children's Services Librarian, individuals typically need a master's degree in Library Science from an accredited university, as well as knowledge of the principles and practices of library services for children. Q3: What are some of the duties of a Children's Services Librarian? A3: Children's Services Librarians typically oversee the selection and organization of materials for a library's children's collection, create and implement programs and activities for children, provide reference and research assistance to children, and assist with technology support for children. Q4: How much does a Children's Services Librarian typically earn? A4: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for a Children's Services Librarian in the United States as of May 2019 is $56,880. Q5: What type of environment does a Children's Services Librarian work in? A5: Children's Services Librarians typically work in public libraries and school libraries, where they interact with children and their families to promote literacy and provide resources for recreational reading.

Web Resources

The Children's Library | The University of New Orleans www.uno.edu
Children and Young Adult Library Services | sils.unc.edu sils.unc.edu
Start Here - Children's Librarianship - LibGuides at Pratt Institute libguides.pratt.edu