Job Title
Librarian
Job Type
Full-time, roughly 200 contract days with school breaks
Direct Supervisor(s)
Executive Director, Principal
Overview
The Librarian is a visionary leader who champions the library as a dynamic hub of inquiry for over 900 students and all staff. You will lead the school’s information literacy efforts, managing digital databases and curating a vibrant book collection that reflects CCPS core values. By blending a lifelong joy of reading with rigorous research and ethical information use, you will inspire a school-wide passion for discovery and help every student become a confident, principled learner.
Responsibilities
- Academic Integrity & Information Literacy: Design and deliver formal instruction on ethical information use; provide expert-level guidance on MLA and APA citation styles; train students in sophisticated research skills, including the use of citation management software and the evaluation of source credibility to uphold rigorous academic standards.
- Extended Essay (capstone research paper) Coordination: Oversee the Extended Essay process by coordinating supervisor assignments and monitoring progress to ensure all IB Diploma Programme requirements and deadlines are met; Provide specialized mentorship on research methodologies to all juniors and seniors, guiding students through the complexities of independent inquiry while maintaining meticulous documentation for official submission.
- Strategic Database & Collection Management: Oversee the lifecycle of all library resources; curate a “nimble” and diverse collection of print and digital assets; manage complex database subscriptions and ensure seamless remote access for the CCPS community.
- Instructional Support & Collaboration: Partner with faculty to teach advanced research strings, data retrieval, and media literacy including artificial intelligence; act as a “roving reference librarian” who helps students navigate misinformation in the digital age.
- Community Hub Cultivation: Energize the library as a sought-out hub; actively incorporate student voice and use data-driven insights to select culturally responsive resources that reflect students’ lived experiences; champion intellectual freedom by defending the right to read and ensuring a collection that represents a broad spectrum of ideas and diverse perspectives.
- Technology Integration: Support students in utilizing digital platforms (including databases, citation managers, AI-driven research tools, and creative media) to enhance and share their learning.
- Professional Development: Lead staff training on evolving trends in Library Science, including AI prompt engineering, database navigation, and support for neurodiverse learners.
Desired Skills
- Technical Expertise: Proficiency in Integrated Library Systems such as Follett Destiny, academic database management (e.g., JSTOR, EBSCO, Gale), and AI-assisted research methodologies.
- Information Architecture: Ability to organize complex digital and physical information systems to maximize student engagement and ease of access.
- Pedagogical Expertise: Experience in developing curricular-based programming for grades 6-12 with a focus on 21st-century information literacy.
- Analytical Thinking: Highly developed organizational skills with the ability to use circulation data and trends to drive collection development.
- Communication: Excellent oral, written, and presentation skills; ability to translate complex technical concepts for a 6-12 audience.
- Physical Ability: Ability to lift +35 lbs unassisted.
License
Ability to obtain a New Mexico School Librarian License (secondary license with library endorsement or Pre-K-12 Speciality)
Education
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Library and/or Informational Sciences (MLIS) is highly preferred.
Experience
3–5 years of professional experience, specifically demonstrating expertise in collection management and instruction.
Compensation
Commensurate with experience and education according to NM Licensed Salary Tiers plus benefits including health, dental, retirement, and tuition assistance.
At Cottonwood Classical Preparatory School, we believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the rich tapestry of our local and global community. Embracing the values outlined in our Mission and Diversity Statements, we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We are committed to creating an environment where everyone’s unique perspectives and talents are celebrated and valued. Diversity makes us stronger.