Library Media Specialist

Description

Develop and maintain a library media program that empowers students to be critical thinkers, enthusiastic readers, skillful researchers and ethical users of information. Collaborate with classroom teachers and specialists to design and implement lessons and units of instruction for improving students’ communication, collaboration, creativity, and ­critical thinking, and assess student learning and instructional effectiveness. Provide leadership and expertise necessary to insure that the school library program is aligned with the mission, goals, and objectives of the school.

Collaborate with teachers to design and implement engaging inquiry & learning experiences for students including assessments that incorporate multiple literacies and foster critical thinking. Teach students to become critical thinkers, read for understanding, gain exposure to Hawaiian worldviews, diverse global perspectives and 21st century skills while learning to embrace the world of information and all of its formats.

Use strategic planning for the continuous improvement of the library’s program including maintaining in the school library media center a teaching and learning environment that is inviting, safe, flexible, and optimizes student learning.

Develop and maintain a collection of resources appropriate to the curriculum, learners, teaching styles and instructional strategies which support learning associated with Hawaiian identity and diverse global perspectives. Providing guidance in software evaluation, understanding copyright, fair use, and licensing of intellectual property, and assisting users with understanding and observance of the same.

Maintain frequent and timely communication to all stakeholders through the school and library websites, e-mail, and/or other formats.

Prepare and manage the library’s budget that is specific to the school library media program’s goals, and supervise and evaluate support staff.

Organize the library’s collection for maximum and effective use including weeding.

Performs other related duties as assigned or requested.

Position Requirements

2 - 3 years of related work experience.

Thorough knowledge of the subject area(s) to be taught and of the instructional methods appropriate for middle school students.

Desire and ability to work with 11-14 year-old students with diverse backgrounds and levels of ability toward accomplishing their educational goals.

Ability to:

Multi-task, organize responsibilities, manage time, & meet varied deadlines.

Manage small and large groups of students in a classroom environment.

Communicate effectively with students, parents, counselors, staff, and school administrators including the ability to discuss topics, which may breach sensitive subject matter.

Develop and maintain effective, positive working relationships with colleagues and school administrators.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master’s Degree in library information science (MLISc).

Knowledge of AASL 21st-Century Learner Standards, school curriculum, formative & summative assessment, and current instructional strategies appropriate for middle school students.

Previous experience working with teachers.

Recent teaching experience with middle school students in the primary area of responsibility.

Knowledge of and sensitivity to Hawaiian culture and Christian values.