Library Research Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Position Description

The Librarian/Media Specialist manages the in-school library education program and is responsible for teaching and planning multiple library and/or reading intervention classes a week. They will be responsible for assessing the information needs of students and staff, and managing the library book collection along with library-specific technology. Successful candidates will have a demonstrable track record of working effectively with diverse youth, strong classroom management skills, experience in library science and media, and a passion for food, social, and environmental justice. The best candidate will have a true love for working with young children. 

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional Services

• Create and implement a developmentally appropriate, anti-bias and anti-racist library specials curriculum aligned with the Montessori philosophy for linguistically and culturally diverse students.
• Work closely with students to support self-assessment, foster individual progress, and accommodate varying learning abilities, including students with exceptionalities.
• Lead reading intervention classes for small groups of students using appropriate curricula
• Document all lesson plans, assignments, rubrics, and instructional methods.
• Evaluate the library media program continuously using established standards of quality.

Collection Development & Access to Information 

• Develop and implement an ongoing media collection plan to evaluate, select, and update media center resources including books and online resources  that support diverse learning and curricular needs.
• Advocate for intellectual freedom and uphold the school’s anti-bias, anti-racist mission.
• Adhere to and promote copyright and ethical use guidelines in the distribution and use of all resources.
• Manage the library budget, and maintain accurate records.
• Maintain consistent student and staff visitation hours to the media center for research needs and encourage broad use of print and electronic resources at school and home.

Facilities & Technology

• Instruct students and staff in the effective use of technology to access resources and information,  including information literacy, digital citizenship, and safety for older students.
• Develop and maintain an efficient circulation system of resources to maximize student and staff access.
• Organize the library media center to maximize equitable access to digital and physical resources. 
• Maintain the library book collection and reshelve in a timely manner.
• Manage Chromebooks and other physical technology to support digital library curriculum.

Community Engagement

• Develop community-wide initiatives such as book fairs, student showcases, and community partnerships as needed to promote literacy and the library program.
• Reinforce and help develop school-wide expectations and rules that honor students’ cultural backgrounds.
• Interact effectively with students, staff, families, and the community to expand the visibility and impact of the library media program.

Additional  Duties and Responsibilities

1. Assist with school day activities (recess, lunch, field trips, arrival/dismissal) and occasional events outside of regular school hours;
2. Attend regular staff meetings and school-wide professional development activities;
3. Maintain paper and electronic student files;
4. Seek training in culturally relevant curriculum and pedagogy;
5. Perform additional school and administrative duties as needed. 

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required. Master's degree in Library and Information Science preferred.
• Knowledge of AASL standards
• A love of working with children
• Experience in a Montessori setting preferred

EEO Statement

Lee Montessori Public Charter School strongly encourages women, people of color, LGBT individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.

Lee Montessori is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.