Library Scientist Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the Director of Teaching and Learning and in collaboration with elementary principals, the Library Media Specialist supports and enhances library and media services across all five elementary schools in the district. The Library Media Specialist assists students and teaching staff by providing access to enriching library/media resources, maintaining library collections, developing literacy and instructional programs, promoting a culture of reading, and instructing students and staff in the effective use of library resources and technology.

Essential Functions

• Provides library media services and instructional support across all five elementary schools within the district.
• Develops, coordinates, and maintains a consistent elementary library program aligned with district curriculum goals and literacy initiatives.
• Operates and supervises elementary library/media center services across assigned school locations.
• Evaluates, selects, and requisitions appropriate books, instructional materials, digital resources, and equipment; maintains inventory records and oversees circulation systems district-wide.
• Collaborates with administrators, instructional coaches, and teaching staff to support curriculum, literacy development, research skills, and media literacy instruction.
• Coordinates with elementary principals and teachers to ensure equitable access to library resources and programming across all elementary buildings.
• Serves as a resource to students and staff by providing research assistance and guidance in locating and evaluating information.
• Maintains a comprehensive and efficient system for cataloging, organizing, and managing library materials and digital resources.
• Coordinates systems for lending and sharing library materials among elementary schools.
• Participates in classroom lessons and co-teaching opportunities with elementary teachers to support literacy, research, and information literacy skills.
• Plans and implements district-wide reading initiatives, author visits, book fairs, literacy events, and other programs that promote student engagement with reading.
• Develops and arranges library displays and promotional materials across elementary sites.
• Assists with the preparation and administration of the elementary library budget and provides recommendations regarding resource allocation and collection development.
• Trains, supervises, and supports library/media center support staff and volunteers as assigned.
• Analyzes library usage data and makes recommendations to improve student access, engagement, and achievement.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and remain current on educational trends, library science practices, instructional technology, and literacy initiatives through professional development opportunities.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students, parents, and staff.
• Ensures that student conduct conforms to school and district expectations and maintains a positive learning environment within library settings.
• Supports district initiatives, committees, and projects related to literacy, instructional resources, and educational technology.

Additional Duties

Performs other related tasks as assigned by elementary principals, the Director of Teaching and Learning, and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not intended to be all-inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Equipment

Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printers, copy machines, telephones, audiovisual equipment, and library management software.

Travel Requirements

Regular travel between district elementary school buildings and professional meetings is required.

Qualifications Profile

Certification/License:

• Kansas State Certification as a Librarian, Library Media Specialist, or other certification required for the position.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in education, library science, or related field.

Experience:

• Successful teaching experience preferred.
• Experience in library media services, literacy instruction, or educational technology preferred.

FLSA Status: Exempt