Upper School Library Research and Innovation Specialist

The Upper School Library Research and Innovation Specialist is a full-time position reporting to the Head of the Upper School. The Specialist is responsible for creating and implementing an effective, proactive program that supports Potomac’s philosophy of inquiry and reflection; enhances the learning and research experience of Potomac students; and prepares them to engage critically with and apply information.

Job Functions:

• Actively create strong relationships with individual departments, students, and the parent body.
• Collaborate with faculty on resources and instruction for assignments, including providing information and training in library media center resources, especially electronic resources
• Partner with Middle school Librarian to plan strategies for reaching library program goals.
• Collaborate with Technology, faculty, and other staff in integrating current technology and information literacy skills into the curriculum.
• Provide students and teachers with individual and class instruction in locating and evaluating information resources.
• Promote self-directed reading among students and staff.
• Create and foster an environment that students and the community want to utilize.
• Facilitate experiences that advance student learning, creativity, and innovation.
• Partner with the academic technologist to design, develop, and evaluate learning experiences that incorporate digital tools.
• Model, motivate and facilitate faculty to use innovative applications of technology as related to research and information literacy.
• Manage the Upper School Library by collaboratively working with the Division Head, Department Chairs and other faculty members to meet specific curriculum and program objectives.
• Select and purchase all materials and resources for the library media center collection, including print, audio and e-books, magazines, newspapers, videos and electronic databases.
• Select, catalog, and circulate library materials to support the school’s educational program.
• Submit and administer annual Library budget.
• Oversee all technical and clerical functions of the library media center, including the use and updating of the library’s automated circulation and catalog databases, implementation of electronic databases, and supplies ordering.
• Manage the circulation of library technology (i.e. Chromebooks, headphones, mice)
• Establish and enforce library media center policies, including materials selection and de-selection, circulation and conduct.
• Maintain and develop professional competency through memberships in local and national organizations, attending professional workshops and conferences, completing professional classes, and regular reading of professional journals.
• Continually evaluate, reflect and share current research and professional practice to make effective use of existing and emerging contemporary tools and strategies.
• Serve on committees, including but not limited to: Senior Project and Curriculum Committees.
• Participate in occasional faculty duties outside regular school hours, including but not limited to: chaperoning and parent teacher conferences.
• Advise a small group of Upper School students by developing meaningful relationships with them and supporting their academic and social-emotional growth.
• Other duties as assigned.