Lower school librarian

The Librarian is both an instructional partner and an information specialist who promotes literacy, inquiry, and the ethical use of information. The Librarian ensures that students and staff are effective users of ideas and information by empowering them to be critical thinkers, enthusiastic readers and skillful researchers. The Librarian provides meaningful learning experiences, in alignment with Graded’s mission and values.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction and Student Learning

• Teach and integrate information literacy, research skills, and digital citizenship across grade levels.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers to design and co-teach units of study that embed library resources and inquiry-based learning.
• Promote reading for pleasure and for learning, encouraging engagement with diverse perspectives and genres.
• Provide individual and group support to help students locate, evaluate, and use information effectively.
• Empower students to assess their own learning, work collaboratively, and develop as independent, lifelong learners.

Leadership

• Serve as an active leader and advocate for the school library program.
• Participate in school improvement and accreditation activities.
• Share expertise by leading workshops for faculty, students, and families.
• Promote the ethical use of information and intellectual freedom.
• Communicate the impact of the library program through reports, publications, and presentations.

Collaboration and Curriculum Development

• Partner with faculty to ensure curricula include literacy skills (information, media, visual, and digital).
• Join with teachers and specialists to implement meaningful experiences that promote inquiry and a culture of reading.
• Provide professional development for faculty on effective use of resources and research-based instructional practices.

Program and Resource Management

• Develop and maintain a diverse and inclusive collection of print and digital resources that supports curriculum and student interests.
• Organize and manage resources for maximum access and effective use.
• Use evidence of student learning to guide program improvement.
• Ensure library spaces are welcoming, safe, flexible, and conducive to collaboration and learning.
• The Head of Department would also oversee budget, acquisitions, policies, and staff related to library operations.

Certifications and Education

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field, with a teacher preparation program
• Valid teaching certification/license.

Desired

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science, Education, or related field.
• Certification as a school librarian/media specialist.

Experience

Required

• Classroom teaching experience.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with teachers to integrate library resources into instruction.

Desired

• Experience in international or multicultural school settings.
• Experience managing library programs, budgets, and resources.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Required

• Strong knowledge of children’s and young adult literature, information literacy, and digital resources.
• Proficiency in technology tools and library management systems.
• Ability to design engaging, differentiated learning experiences.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Desired

• Familiarity with international curricula (e.g., IB, AP).
• Skills in emerging educational technologies and global information networks.

Personal Attributes

Required

• Commitment to Graded’s mission, vision, and values.
• Passion for literacy, inquiry, and lifelong learning.
• Professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality in all aspects of the role.
• Collaborative, reflective, and open to continuous professional growth.

Desired

• Creativity and innovation in programming and instructional design.
• Enthusiasm for engaging the community in literacy initiatives.
• Dedication to building inclusive and student-centered learning environments.