Position Title: Middle & Upper School Librarian/Media Specialist

Reports to: Head of Middle School and Head of Upper School

Employment Status: Full-Time Benefit Eligible

FLSA Classification: Exempt

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Walker School is seeking an energetic, dedicated individual to serve as the Middle and Upper School Librarian/Media Specialist beginning with the 2024-2025 school year. This position is central in fostering a reading culture in grades 6-12 and supporting our faculty in their teaching of research and technology skills. Our Bowden Library serves as a central hub for students to engage with books, study in groups, and connect with each other; the Middle and Upper School Librarian/Media Specialist is central to creating an environment in our library that is collaborative, welcoming, and social.

QUALIFYING CHARACTERISTICS

The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about engaging with teenagers, creative, and dedicated to instilling a passion for reading and research in Middle and Upper School students. They must have a growth mindset, be flexible, open to collaboration, and innovative as libraries evolve to support student learning. Candidates must also demonstrate reliability, resourcefulness, and empathy when working with both staff and students while embodying the school’s mission and philosophy.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Create a welcoming physical and digital library environment that promotes collaboration and belonging and encourages the use of Bowden Library as a hub for academic and social activity

• Collaborate with Middle and Upper School faculty to create and carry out projects within the curriculum that integrate the use of technology and research skills

• Maintain the library collection (both books and databases), with the primary aims being to foster a strong reading culture and to support the school’s academic programming

• Collaborate with the Department Chairs, Director of Educational Technology and Innovative Teaching Chair to leverage existing and emerging technologies (e.g AI and ChatGPT) to foster innovation, creativity, and curiosity among students

• Provide supervision of students within the library and coverage of the circulation desk

• Maintain databases, review usage statistics, and make recommendations for addition or removal of digital resources to support Middle and Upper School curricula

• Create programming for students in Middle and Upper School to develop their love of reading, research skills, and facility with integrating different forms of media into project work, which may include times before or after school

• Perform upgrades, modifications, and customization of library resources to encourage material usage and access

• Build partnerships with the local library system and university libraries in the metro area

• Engage in student activities, clubs, and/or advising as a fully integrated member of the school community

CORE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree required

• MLS degree from an ALA-accredited library school and/or extensive experience working in a 6–12 library setting preferred

• Broad knowledge of and passion for literature for young adults and beyond

• Excellent research and reference skills through a variety of online and other standard resources, and experience and ability teaching these skills to Middle and Upper School students

• Ability to integrate technology, use innovative curricula, and employ best pedagogical practices

• Excellent verbal, listening, and written communication skills

• Demonstrated commitment to The Walker School’s mission and core values

• Demonstrated ability to problem-solve and work in collaborative partnerships across all constituent groups.

About The Walker School

The Walker School is a leader among independent schools in the metro Atlanta area and has long been recognized for its first-rate academic program, close relationships between students and faculty, and abundant opportunities for students to engage in meaningful experiences in and outside of the classroom. Walker enrolls students from Pre-K3 through Grade 12 and is open to all faiths. Our commitment to diversity provides a welcoming and safe atmosphere for students to discover who they are and to successfully navigate an ever-changing world. The Walker School is proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. The best candidates will be able to demonstrate a proven commitment to working in diverse, multicultural settings.

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