Youth Services Librarian, School and Community Outreach (Full-Time, Permanent) in Preston
Youth Services Librarian, School and Community Outreach (Full-Time, Permanent)

Youth Services Librarian, School and Community Outreach (Full-Time, Permanent) in Preston

Preston Full-Time 77561 - 77561 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
Idea Exchange

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead exciting youth programs and connect with schools and communities.
  • Company: Join the vibrant team at Cambridge Public Library.
  • Benefits: Enjoy health benefits, retirement savings, and a positive work-life balance.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through literacy and community outreach.
  • Qualifications: Master's degree in Library Science and experience with youth required.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to lifelong learning.

The predicted salary is between 77561 - 77561 ÂŁ per year.

This is a posting for an existing vacancy. Under the direction of CPL’s Manager, Youth Services, the Youth Services (YS) Librarian, School and Community Outreach provides leadership in the development and delivery of early literacy programs, school-based services and community outreach initiatives for children. The role leads in building strategic relationships with local school boards and community partners who focus on children and/or families. This position supports CPL systemwide in creating, developing and implementing outreach visits, coordinates curriculum-connected programs and library orientations that promote reading engagement, information literacy, and equitable access to library resources. The YS Librarian, School and Community Outreach provides systemwide project leadership, partnership development, and supports staff systemwide through training, resources and program and service development.

What You’ll Do

  • Responsibility for program/service delivery (internal/external), coordination of staff.
  • Supports and provides expertise in the development, delivery and evaluation of youth programming, specifically early literacy and elementary school programs and school tours.
  • Works with community partners to maintain existing services, and create new initiatives in Cambridge (e.g., Baby Connections, 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, SRC Outreach).
  • Coordinates, schedules, plans, organizes and conducts weekly youth services programs and assists with or conducts other programs or events as requested.
  • Acts as CPL’s primary contact with school principals, teachers and other leaders within the four (4) school boards in Cambridge to promote the library and use of its services and programs. Also acts as CPL’s primary contact for homeschool groups.
  • Teaches information literacy skills with age‑appropriate curriculum‑based presentations, tours and visits, both in‑library and on‑site in schools.
  • Prepares and coordinates distribution/circulation of library materials and supplemental resources.
  • Develops and conducts elementary tour/visit plans, and provides instruction to staff on delivering tours/visits.
  • Coordinates and prepares content with the marketing department for the website, newsletters and other marketing collateral to promote programs, events and services.
  • Responsible for addressing inappropriate or disruptive behaviour of members according to the established procedures.
  • Answers member questions in person, by telephone or by internet: General inquiries, Advanced catalogue search and use of available reference tools.
  • Readers Advisory including assisting members to find resources using the library catalogue, electronic databases, microfilm equipment and the internet and making recommendations to members regarding leisure reading, viewing and listening material.
  • Instruct members in the use of computers, maker equipment and/or software for users with all skill levels.
  • Project management (planning, producing, implementation, monitoring, reporting).
  • Undertakes systemwide projects with a youth services focus. This includes research, service recommendations, as well as creating and delivering youth services training, program pilots, conducting program evaluations and coordinating program implementation across all locations.
  • Collects statistics and writes reports.
  • Assists the Manager, Youth Services, in organizing the annual Children’s Summer Reading Club with a focus on Outreach in the community (SRC); supports SRC committee work and evaluation of SRC program.
  • Makes recommendations leading to the development of policies and procedures.
  • Assists the Manager, Youth Services, in hiring, training and supervision of SRC summer students and youth services staff.
  • Creates, updates and delivers staff training in the provision of early literacy‑oriented and curriculum‑based learning services, and provides additional staff instruction as required.
  • As assigned, provides some direction to library staff, SRC staff, co‑op students and volunteers. Acts as Person In Charge when assigned.

What You Bring

  • Required – University Master’s degree in Library Information Science or Information Studies.
  • Required – Experience working in public library – Two (2) years.
  • Required – Experience working with youth in a work environment – Two (2) years.
  • Required – Experience working in a service environment – Four (4) years.
  • Required – Experience developing and delivering staff training.
  • Preferred – Knowledge of makerspace technology and applications.
  • Preferred - Experience supervising staff.
  • Ability to plan and execute programming for youth.
  • Maintains a knowledge of library trends in Youth Services and Early Literacy.
  • Expertise in information literacy, technology, and curriculum‑based resource development and instruction.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate professionally with internal and external partners.
  • The ability to connect with people of all ages and offer hands‑on assistance.
  • Strong analytical skills and a keen attention to detail.
  • Superior organization and time management skills to address competing priorities.
  • Exceptional verbal and written communication, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills, including the ability to explain complex technology to non‑technical users.
  • Has an inclusive and empathetic approach and service‑oriented mindset.
  • A passion for supporting the diverse interests and needs of the Cambridge community.

Why Cambridge Public Library (CPL)?

Working at Cambridge Public Library offers you the opportunity to be part of an organization that is welcoming, collaborative, and passionate about the community. By joining our team, you’ll become part of a passionate group of professionals dedicated to enriching lives and inspiring lifelong learning.

Competitive Benefits Package:

  • Your well‑being is important to us. We offer health, dental, vision care, and employee & family assistance program (EFAP).
  • Retirement Savings: Membership in OMERS, one of Canada’s largest defined benefit pension plans, can help provide a secure and stable income in retirement. Which you’ll be eligible on the first day.
  • Free Onsite Parking: Parking shouldn’t be a hassle. That’s why we offer free onsite parking for employees.
  • Reliable Work Schedules: We understand the importance of work‑life balance. Our scheduling process ensures that you’ll have a consistent schedule.
  • Positive Work-Life Balance: We strive to maintain a positive work‑life balance, ensuring that you have the time and energy to enjoy life outside of work.

Salary: $77,561 per annum (Level 10 in our salary grid). Hours: This is a full‑time permanent position, 70 hours in a bi‑weekly period.

How to Apply

To be considered for the position, applications must be received by 4:00 pm EST on April 7, 2026. Late applications will not be considered. Tell us why we should consider you for this position! Please provide both a cover letter and resume, combined as a single PDF document. Submissions containing links, multiple files or missing required documents will not be considered. When applying by email, please quote “26-13 Youth Services Librarian” in your email subject line.

The anticipated start date for this position is May 2026. The position is open to internal and external candidates. We thank everyone for their interest, however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Cambridge Public Library aspires to employ a staff complement that fully represents the diversity of the community we serve. All qualified individuals who would contribute to the further diversification of our organization are encouraged to apply. Cambridge Public Library is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to accommodating individual needs in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you need any accommodations during the hiring process, please contact Human Resources at hr@cambridgepl.ca. A Vulnerable Sector Check that is satisfactory to CPL will be required. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada. Cambridge Public Library (CPL) will communicate regarding employment opportunities via email and/or telephone. Applicants are required to maintain up‑to‑date contact information. As communications may be time‑sensitive, applicants are encouraged to monitor their email and voicemail regularly. Failure to respond may be interpreted as a withdrawal of interest in the position. If it is determined that any information submitted is inaccurate, misleading, or incomplete, Cambridge Public Library (CPL) may, at its discretion, remove the application from further consideration.

Youth Services Librarian, School and Community Outreach (Full-Time, Permanent) in Preston employer: Idea Exchange

Cambridge Public Library is an exceptional employer that fosters a welcoming and collaborative work environment, dedicated to enriching the lives of the community. As a Youth Services Librarian, you will enjoy a competitive benefits package, including health and dental coverage, a secure pension plan from your first day, and a commitment to work-life balance with reliable schedules. Join a passionate team that values professional growth and offers unique opportunities to make a meaningful impact on youth literacy and community engagement in the vibrant city of Cambridge.
Idea Exchange

Contact Detail:

Idea Exchange Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Youth Services Librarian, School and Community Outreach (Full-Time, Permanent) in Preston

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the library and education sectors. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues and partners. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised.

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your past projects, especially those related to youth services and community outreach. This will give you an edge during interviews and help demonstrate your hands-on experience.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your experiences in early literacy programs and community initiatives. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Cambridge Public Library team. Let’s make it happen!

We think you need these skills to ace Youth Services Librarian, School and Community Outreach (Full-Time, Permanent) in Preston

Leadership in program development
Early literacy programming
Community outreach initiatives
Relationship building with school boards
Curriculum-connected programming
Information literacy instruction
Project management
Staff training and development
Collaboration with community partners
Analytical skills
Attention to detail
Communication skills
Problem-solving skills
Knowledge of library trends in Youth Services
Empathetic and service-oriented mindset

Some tips for your application 🫡

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for youth services and community outreach. Share specific examples of your experience that align with the role, and don’t forget to express why you’re excited about joining Cambridge Public Library.

Tailor Your Resume: We want to see how your skills match up with what we’re looking for. Customise your resume to reflect your relevant experience in public libraries and working with youth. Use keywords from the job description to make it clear you’re the perfect fit!

Follow Application Instructions: Pay close attention to the application requirements. Combine your cover letter and resume into a single PDF, and make sure to include the job posting number in your email subject line. We can’t stress enough how important it is to follow these details!

Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Youth Services Librarian, strong communication is key. Ensure your written application is clear, concise, and free of errors. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your exceptional verbal and written communication skills right from the start!

How to prepare for a job interview at Idea Exchange

✨Know Your Audience

Before the interview, research Cambridge Public Library and its community outreach initiatives. Understand their current youth programs and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.

✨Showcase Your Experience

Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your skills in developing and delivering youth programming. Highlight any successful partnerships you've built with schools or community organisations, as this is crucial for the role.

✨Be Ready to Discuss Trends

Stay updated on the latest trends in youth services and early literacy. Be prepared to discuss how these trends can be integrated into the library's existing programs. This shows that you’re proactive and passionate about the field.

✨Ask Thoughtful Questions

At the end of the interview, ask insightful questions about the library’s future plans for youth services or how they measure the success of their outreach programs. This not only demonstrates your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the role is the right fit for you.

Youth Services Librarian, School and Community Outreach (Full-Time, Permanent) in Preston
Idea Exchange
Location: Preston

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