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Teen Library Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Teen Library information

See Missouri salary details

$29.1K

$61.2K

$96.1K

How much do teen library jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for teen library in Missouri is $61,151.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,300.00 and $70,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a teen library?

Teen Library jobs are positions within a library that focus on serving teenagers and young adults. These roles may include organizing programs and events for teens, recommending age-appropriate books and resources, providing homework help, and creating a welcoming environment for young library users. Staff in these positions often work closely with teens to promote literacy, creativity, and community engagement. Common job titles include Teen Librarian, Youth Services Assistant, or Teen Program Coordinator.

What are the common responsibilities of a teen librarian, and how do they collaborate with other library staff?

As a Teen Library Specialist, you will typically be responsible for planning and leading programs that engage teens, such as book clubs, workshops, and community events. You’ll curate collections that appeal to young adults, provide research assistance, and foster an inclusive, welcoming space. Collaboration with children's librarians, adult services staff, and community partners is common to ensure cohesive programming and outreach. This teamwork helps create a supportive environment that addresses the diverse needs of teen patrons while promoting literacy and lifelong learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a teen librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Teen Librarian, you need a background in library science (often an MLS/MLIS degree), knowledge of young adult literature, and experience with youth programming. Familiarity with library catalog systems, digital resources, and social media platforms is typically required. Strong interpersonal, communication, and creativity skills help build rapport with teens and create engaging programs. These skills ensure effective outreach, foster a welcoming environment, and support the educational and recreational needs of teen patrons.

What is the difference between Teen Library vs Youth Librarian?

AspectTeen LibraryYouth Librarian
CredentialsLibrary degree or relevant certificationLibrary degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentPublic or school libraries focusing on teen collectionsLibraries serving children and teens, often in educational settings
Employer & IndustryPublic libraries, school libraries, community centersPublic, school, or specialized youth services
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to teen services in librariesRoles involving youth engagement and library services for children and teens

Both Teen Library and Youth Librarian roles involve working with young audiences, but Teen Library typically refers to the department or space dedicated to teenagers, while Youth Librarian is a specific job title for professionals providing services to children and teens. The roles often overlap, with Youth Librarians working across age groups, including teens, in various library settings.

What do teen librarians do?

Teen librarians organize and manage library programs, collections, and activities specifically for teenagers. They assist young patrons with research, reading recommendations, and technology use, often creating engaging events to promote literacy and community involvement. Strong communication skills and knowledge of youth interests are important for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Teen Library jobs in Missouri?

For Teen Library jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Teen Library jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Teen Library job openings:

Infographic showing various Teen Library job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,151 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Youth Librarian (Plaza)

KANSAS CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$51K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description

Under the general supervision of the Plaza Youth Services Manager in cooperation with the Plaza Branch Senior Manager, engages children in fun learning activities, and promotes library service to children, teachers, families, and other caring adults in the Plaza Branch serving area. Creates and conducts programming for children, provides outreach services to youth in the community, and partners with youth serving organizations. Seeks opportunities to support the work system-wide in ensuring quality library service for children and youth in Kansas City.  

This is a full-time, exempt position with a starting salary of $51,036, plus benefits . 


Schedule

Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday: 8:30 am - 5 pm

Wednesday: 12:30 pm - 9 pm

Saturday: 9 am - 6 pm


Job Duties (Essential Functions) 

  1. Provides and promotes programming and services to meet the needs of children, teens, and the important adults in their lives with a focus on those in the Plaza area of service. These include coordinating youth events at the location, maintaining a child and youth friendly and interactive space, as well as conducting school visits and representing the Library at Outreach events.  
  2. Works as a team with Youth Services staff at Plaza and may serve as the leader in charge when the Youth Services Manager is not available. Helps ensure the operations of the location in the absence of other location leaders. 
  3. Meets regularly with Plaza Youth Services Manager to communicate concerns, share ideas and information, and solicit input or help as needed.  
  4. Assists in collection maintenance needs as required. Seeks ways to market collection to location patrons.  
  5. Communicates any concerns with children's computers to IS to ensure they are in working order for the children who use the location.
  6. Participates in the planning and implementation of system-wide programming for children, teens, and their families. Communicates effectively with staff in the location regarding branch specific and system-wide children programming. Assists other youth librarians as needed. 
  7. Attends all Youth & Family Engagement and Plaza staff meetings. Relays information from YFE staff meetings to Plaza staff and represents Plaza concerns at YFE meeting. 
  8. Continuously maintains Microsoft Outlook calendar that is shared with YFE leadership and staff, and location leadership and staff. 
  9. Connects with schools, childcare providers, and community organizations to provide and promote library services to children and teens.  
  10. Maintains accurate statistics for programming and services. Prepares and shares monthly reports. Notes and shares stories of engagement with children, their families, and their learning environments (schools, child development centers, etc.). Utilizes data to refine and develop services.  
  11. Other responsibilities include supervising temporary employees and volunteers, and assisting other branches with Kid's Cafe.
  12. Performs other related work and undertakes special projects as assigned.  

Requirements

  1. Demonstrated ability to create a welcoming environment for children and their families in the branch and to provide engaging and effective library services for this audience.  
  2. Outstanding customer service and engagement skills with strong understanding of trauma-informed service.  
  3. Working knowledge of children's and teen literature, online resources, and an understanding of child and adolescent developmental stages. 
  4. Demonstrated excellence in story time planning and presentation, incorporating Every Child Ready to Read into these learning experiences. 
  5. Ability to assess the needs of the community, reach out to organizations in the service area that serve children and youth, and create partnering opportunities. 
  6. Ability to work independently and as part of a team and handle multiple projects simultaneously. 
  7. Demonstrated capacity for responding to changing circumstances and expectations.  
  8. Demonstrated desire to gain knowledge and stay current with trends and developments in library children and youth services. 
  9. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated ability to follow oral and written instructions. 
  10. Advanced computer skills including technology skills used in libraries.  
  11. Must have reliable transportation to access locations throughout the Library District.
  12. Ability to work with diverse populations (i.e., age, gender, class, sexual orientation, ethnicity, etc.).
  13. Able to lift 30 lbs. 
  14. Ability to effectively communicate in and understand English is required. Additional consideration may be given to individuals that are proficient in any non-English languages utilized in the Kansas City area including American Sign Language, Vietnamese, French, Arabic, and Swahili. 

Required Education & Experience 

  • Master's Degree in library Science or the equivalent combination of other Master's or Bachelor's degree and applicable work experience. 
  • Significant experience working with youth and the important adults in their lives. 
  • Understanding of child and adolescent development and a passion for excellent library services for and with youth. 
  • Experience working with children and youth preferred. 
  • Knowledge of children's literature preferred. 
  • Experience planning activities for children preferred. 

Work Environment

Work is primarily performed at the Plaza Branch. Primary workspace is shared with co-workers and patrons from a diverse socio-economic community. Working at other library locations and in the community occurs occasionally.


Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.


The employee must be able to perform the essential functions and job requirements of the position satisfactorily. If requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship.


How to Apply

Please apply for this position through our web application system. We only accept applications for specific currently open positions made through our online system. Access the online application from the job listing on the Job Opportunities page. The application system allows you to attach a document (such as a cover letter or a resume) toyour application (10MB limit per document). When you submit your application, anacknowledgement will be sent to the email address you provided. You are welcome to apply for asmany positions as you wish. However, to minimize problems, close and restart your browserbetween each application.


All online Application for Employment forms must be completely filled out. For technical assistance, call 816.701.3712.


Kansas City Public Library is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating aninclusive environment for all employees.