Location: Evanston, IL

Salary: $86,395.22 - $107,470.07 annually

FSLA Classification: Exempt

Hours: Schedule varies including evenings, weekends and holiday hours. Hours are flexible. Full-time, 37.5 hours per week, On-Site

The Evanston Public Library is seeking an Early Learning & Literacy Manager. This position is responsible for the development and management of programs, services, activities and resources for the department, serving children, parents and caregivers. The position actively provides and ensures excellent customer support and satisfaction through high-quality, engaging services and interactions with the surrounding community. Duties include strong, effective management of department staff including hiring and supervision; design and execution of innovative programming; management of department programing budget and external partnerships; maintenance of the collection; collaboration with members of the administrative team on greater Library policies, procedures and other matters.

Benefits: Evanston Public Library offers a comprehensive and affordable benefit package which includes PTO, 457 retirement plan, IMRF, medical (PPO and HMO), prescription, dental, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and vision plans along with life insurance, additional life and AD&D coverages. Employees are eligible to enroll within the first 31 days after hire date.

Position Overview

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Specific assignment will include some or all of the following):

• Leads and coordinates the work of the Early Learning & Literacy (ELL) team to deliver innovative, high-quality services and programs for children, families, and caregivers.
• Supervises, monitors and evaluates departmental staff, including librarians and library assistants along with student interns for accuracy, follow through, and alignment with performance expectations and exceptional customer service standards.
• Recruits, trains, and mentors new team members, fostering professional growth and collaboration. Administers disciplinary actions as needed.
• Plans and facilitates regular team training sessions and meetings to ensure alignment with library goals and community needs.
• Promote teamwork, innovative practices and motivation through effective communication and leadership skills.
• Contributes to strategic planning and decision-making as part of the library's Administrative Team.
• Acts as Person-in-Charge of the building when designated, ensuring smooth library operations.
• Identifies, applies for, and manages grants and funding opportunities in coordination with the Development Team to support effective and innovative programming and services.
• Oversees budgeting for ELL programs and supplies, ensuring resources are allocated effectively.
• Works in collaboration with others to manage the collection budget for the department and support librarians in the collection selection process
• Builds and strengthen partnerships with local schools and organizations serving children, families, and caregivers, including delivering presentations to promote library services.
• Develops equitable and inclusive policies, services, and programs that reflect the diverse needs of the community.
• Stays informed on trends in early learning, literacy, and library innovation to implement best practices and emerging technologies.
• Finalizes and enforces policies and procedures to ensure consistent and high-quality services for children, families, and caregivers.
• Uses data and evaluation tools to measure program outcomes, improve services, and prepare reports for the Library Board of Trustees or external stakeholders.
• Represents the library at professional and community meetings, with a focus on advocacy for children and families.
• Leads the implementation of innovative technologies and services to enhance user experiences, particularly for children and caregivers.
• Analyzes service delivery trends and recommends improvements to enhance accessibility and engagement, including virtual services.
• Promote awareness and usage of early learning resources through data-driven outreach strategies.
• Oversee youth selectors with the Collections Manager to ensure appropriate curation and alignment of the collection with community needs.
• Performs additional responsibilities assigned to advance the library's mission and strategic goals.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:

• Master's degree in library and information science from an ALA accredited university
• Five (5) or more years' experience in a library working directly with children, families and caregivers
• Two (2) years or more experience working in a managerial role with supervisory, hiring, training and performance management experience; union experience preferred
• Valid driver's license and a safe driving record
• Available to work a regular schedule that can include weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and supervise a team of employees effectively
• Strong knowledge and skill in public speaking and presentations.
• Ability to establish good rapport and to positively engage a diverse group of customers and other departmental contacts.
• Ability to learn new technology and communicate this knowledge to patrons.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise tact and use good judgment in relation to library practices, services policies applied to the public.
• Ability to exercise initiative and to make independent decisions.
• Working knowledge of Windows operating systems, MS Office applications, and the internet.
• Regularly analyze and assess the collection to ensure its accuracy, relevance, and up-to-date status, making necessary updates or recommendations for improvements as required.
• Take a proactive approach in maintaining the safety, cleanliness, and overall presentation of the area, ensuring a welcoming and secure environment for both staff and customers and request maintenance when necessary.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing; facility with another language is preferred

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:

The ability to work in a position that requires standing, sitting, and movement throughout the building space. Able to use up to 10 pounds of force frequently and lift 20 to 35 pounds occasionally. The ability to frequently lift, carry or otherwise move objects, including moving carts, shifting books or materials. Extensive hours of computer use are also required. The employee is subject to inside environmental conditions: protection from weather conditions, but not necessarily from indoor temperature changes. There are no environmental hazards associated with this classification.

Chosen candidates will be required to provide proof of licenses, certifications and/or education required for this position. Candidates will also be subject to qualify pre-employment processes, including medical examinations, drug/alcohol screening, employment verification, and criminal background checks.

The Evanston Public Library connects a community through learning, discovery and shared experiences, providing equitable access to resources, fostering personal growth, and creating spaces where everyone can belong, learn and connect. The library strives to ignite limitless possibilities, inspire bold ideas and empower every person to build a connected inclusive community.

The Evanston Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To apply for this position, please submit your resume by clicking the apply button.

Early Learning, child development, department management, budgeting, library policies, supervision, team training, advocacy for children and family, community involvement, performance management