Librarian -Early Childhood Specialist

The East Hartford Public Library is seeking a dedicated early childhood specialist with experience in libraries, education, or school settings to join our collaborative and innovative Children and Teen Services team. This role focuses on delivering high-quality services to young children and their caregivers, developing and implementing engaging programs, and building strong outreach connections with schools and community partners.

The East Hartford Public Library operates two newly renovated and expanded branches featuring bright, welcoming spaces designed for children and teens. Our staff work across departments to provide inclusive, community-centered programs and services for all East Hartford residents.

Work is performed under the general supervision of a senior librarian or library administrator.

This is a full-time 35-hour per week position including evening shifts. Educators and social service professionals are encouraged to apply. Bilingual candidates, especially those fluent in Spanish, are preferred.

The Town of East Hartford proudly stands as an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a work environment free from discrimination. We firmly uphold the principles of equality, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Our commitment to inclusivity and diversity is unwavering, and we enthusiastically encourage applicants from all walks of life to join our team.

• Plans work according to established library procedures
• Establishes task priorities within work unit
• Assists in near-term and long-range planning
• Provides reference and readers advisory services
• Assists with library circulation functions as needed
• Provides technology instruction and basic support
• Plans and executions library programs
• Markets library programs and services through flyer creation, social media promotion, written press releases, and other strategies
• Collaborate with community partners
• Prepare statistical reports as requested
• Supports collection management functions, including materials selection and weeding
• Attends meetings and participates in professional library organizations

• May train and supervise clerical, paraprofessional and subordinate professionals in specific tasks
• May administer the entire library in the absence of a librarian in a more responsible position
• May work cross-departmentally, including with different age groups (adult, teen, children’s) regardless of primary departmental assignment

• A well-developed knowledge of the principles and practices of library work related to assigned areas of expertise such as reference, children’s, teens, or technology
• Ability to apply principles of library science to solve practical problems
• Ability to keep current with new technologies and methods
• Working knowledge of computer applications, including integrated library systems
• Ability to work effectively with library staff and patrons
• Knowledge of basic research materials, print and electronic
• Knowledge of literature is appropriate to a specific division: such as children, adults, media, reference, etc.
• Ability to interact with the public and employees in a courteous and professional manner
• Ability to deal with disruptive patrons and emergency situations
• Skill in resolving confidential/sensitive situations
• Ability to manage and supervise subordinate staff
• Familiarity with the ethics and values of the profession, including an understanding of the Library Bill of Rights, the ALA Code of Ethics, freedom of information, confidentiality of library records, and privacy issues

Work is performed under the supervision of a supervisory librarian or library administrator in a public service or office setting which is subject to interruptions and background noise. Performs varied functions requiring judgment to ensure compliance with applicable departmental and town policies, procedures, and methods. Must be mobile, able to push/pull 50 pounds and lift objects up to 30 pounds. Must be able to stand or sit for prolonged periods, up to four hours.

Must be able to perform such tasks as writing, filing, keyboarding, using a calculator, and other skills which require hand-eye coordination. May be in constant contact with employees and the public. Must be able to…