Full-Time Middle School Library Media Specialist

PURPOSE

A library media specialist facilitates library media and/or instructional technology programs as aligned to school and district priorities. They promote the use of multiple forms of media to support literacy development and lead teachers/students to become effective users of information and technology skills and tools necessary for college and career readiness. A library media specialist oversees the School Library Media Program in accordance with the Cudahy Information and Technology Strategic Plan. Their work offers an equitable, multi-cultural setting and teaches all children to think deeply, critically and creatively. The employee will be required to perform duties with awareness of all district requirements and Board of Education policies.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Reports to: Building Principal (Direct Supervisor)

Duration: 190 days

Evaluation: Performance will be evaluated annually by the Building Principal prior to June 30th.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Program Management & Administration

• Plan, evaluate, and manage the daily operations, hours, and circulation procedures of the library media program.
• Administer the library budget, including authorizing orders and payments, and maintaining accurate records of expenditures.
• Design and arrange the library media center to create a welcoming, orderly, and flexible environment that supports a variety of learning activities, including a Makerspace or STEM/STEAM learning hub.
• Participate in recruiting, training, and supervising clerical help, library assistants, and volunteers.
• Maintain accurate records, including keeping circulation statistics, conducting regular inventory, and compiling data for annual reports.

Instruction & Student Support

• Work collaboratively with teachers to plan learning activities, integrating library resources into the broader educational program and special projects.
• Instruct students in comprehensive library media skills, including digital citizenship, media literacy, evaluating sources for misinformation (including AI-generated content), and media production.
• Provide individual and group guidance on the use of modern technology, including 1:1 devices, Chromebooks, tablets, and makerspace equipment.
• Develop programs to motivate reading, listening, viewing, and communication skills , while establishing clear rules for student behavior and equipment care.
• Supervise students, answer reference questions, and supply necessary materials for college and career readiness.

Collection Development & Management

• Evaluate, select, and acquire new materials (physical and digital) while conducting regular diversity audits to ensure the collection is equitable and reflects the student population.
• Implement and manage a modern Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) or digital library management system.
• Oversee the cataloging, classifying, and physical preparation of all media and software.
• Continually evaluate the collection by managing the withdrawal, physical discarding, and digital deselection of obsolete or damaged items.

Professional Leadership & Community Outreach

• Curate and digitally share relevant educational articles, trends, and resources to promote professional reading and growth among staff.
• Survey faculty and students to assess resource needs, continuously familiarizing yourself with course curriculum and student interests.
• Serve on relevant departmental, faculty, curriculum, and technology committees to align the instructional media program with school goals.
• Supervise public relations activities to promote the library program, including bulletin boards, displays, announcements, and special activities.
• Cooperate with local library systems and engage in continuous professional development through academic courses and relevant professional organizations.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Understand and adhere to all District policies and procedures.
• Demonstrate a positive attitude to foster a welcoming atmosphere.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment with many interruptions.
• Strong independent problem-solving and assessment abilities.
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.
• Must be able to effectively interact with others in person, by phone, or in written communication.
• Models high standards of integrity and personal performance.
• Ability to use web-based programs (Skyward: SIS, GoIDEA, Google Workspace), e-mail, and technology (laptop, Smartboard, etc.) effectively.

QUALIFICATIONS

Possess a Bachelor's Degree in Education or a content-related field. Hold the appropriate teaching certificate issued by the State of Wisconsin for the designated subject area.

PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANDS

• Must be able to stand, walk, climb, crawl or sit for prolonged periods with or without back support.
• Must be able to maintain concentration and focus on tasks.
• Must be able to follow safety practices at all times.
• Move or lift packages or boxes up to 25 pounds; requires the occasional exertion of up to 50 pounds of force.
• Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word and conveying detailed or important instructions to others accurately, loudly, or quickly.
• Hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels and to receive detailed information through oral communications, and/or to make fine distinctions in sounds.
• Frequently remain in a stationary, standing, or walking position for extended periods of time.
• Operate a computer, printer, copier, and other standard office equipment.
• Ability to effectively communicate (verbal and written) with parents, colleagues, administration, and all other members of the educational community.
• Ability to instruct students and coach adults effectively and capably.
• Ability to maintain emotional control under stress.
• Ability to use web-based programs (Skyward: SIS, IEP, G Suite for Education), e-mail, and technology (laptop, Smartboard, etc.) effectively.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Indoor classrooms/School, exposure to: student noise, lawn mowing, music, odors of food, mowed grass, and possible communicable diseases.
• Outdoor schoolyard and grounds, field trips; exposure to temperatures (hot, warm, cool, cold), and exposure to mowed grass.
• Regular and consistent work attendance.
• The employee shall remain free of any alcohol or illegal substance in the workplace in compliance with Policy 3122.01 throughout his/her employment in the District.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The School District of Cudahy is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose such discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation.

DISCLAIMER

Nothing in this job description restricts the Supervisor's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. The description reflects Supervisor's assignment of essential functions and does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. This job description is subject to change at any time.