How to become a youth services librarian

How to become a Youth Services Librarian

Becoming a youth services librarian involves a combination of education, practical experience, and professional development. Here's a guide on how to pursue a career as a youth services librarian:

• Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: While there is no specific undergraduate major required, choosing a field related to library science, education, child development, or a related discipline can be beneficial.
• Earn a Master's Degree: Most youth services librarian positions require a Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited program. Some programs may offer specializations in youth services.
• Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships or volunteer positions in libraries, especially those with a focus on youth services. This hands-on experience will provide valuable insights into working with children and young adults in a library setting.
• Build Relevant Skills: Youth services librarians need excellent communication skills to interact effectively with children, teens, and their caregivers. Gain experience in planning and implementing library programs, storytimes, and events for children and young adults.
• Obtain Professional Certification: While not always required, obtaining professional certification, such as the Public Library Professional Certification (PLPC) offered by the American Library Association, can enhance your credentials.
• Networking: Join professional organizations such as the American Library Association (ALA) and the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC). Attend conferences, workshops, and networking events to connect with professionals in youth services librarianship.
• Apply for Entry-Level Positions: Look for entry-level positions in libraries, with a focus on youth services. These roles might include library assistant or associate positions, providing you with practical experience and exposure to the daily operations of a youth services department.
• Pursue Specializations: Consider specializing in a particular area within youth services, such as early literacy, teen services, or multicultural programming. Specializations can enhance your expertise and make you more competitive in the job market.
• Create a Portfolio: Develop a portfolio showcasing your relevant skills, experiences, and any programming or outreach initiatives you've led. This can be a valuable tool when applying for youth services librarian positions.
• Apply for Youth Services Librarian Positions: Once you have gained the necessary education and experience, actively search and apply for youth services librarian positions in public libraries or other institutions serving children and young adults.
• Prepare for Interviews: Be prepared to discuss your passion for working with youth, your programming ideas, and your understanding of the importance of libraries in the educational and cultural development of young people.

Helpful Resources
Youth services librarians can benefit from a variety of resources to support their professional development, stay informed about industry trends, and enhance their services for children and young adults. Here are some helpful resources:

• American Library Association (ALA): ALA provides a wealth of resources, including publications, conferences, and professional development opportunities. The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of ALA, is specifically focused on services for children.
• Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC): ALSC offers resources, publications, and professional development opportunities for librarians serving children and young adults. They provide guidelines, book lists, and toolkits for various aspects of youth services.
• LibraryLinkNJ - Youth Services Section: LibraryLinkNJ offers resources and professional development opportunities for youth services librarians in New Jersey. While specific to New Jersey, many of their resources are applicable to librarians nationwide.
• Storytime Underground: A collaborative community that provides resources, ideas, and support for librarians who conduct storytimes for children. It includes a blog, forums, and a wealth of practical information.
• Booklist: Published by the American Library Association, Booklist offers reviews and recommendations for a wide range of books, including those suitable for youth collections.
• School Library Journal (SLJ): SLJ offers reviews, articles, and resources for librarians serving youth, including school librarians. It covers trends in children's and young adult literature.
• Programming Librarian: A resource from ALA that provides ideas, tools, and resources for planning and implementing library programs, including those for children and teens.
• Association for Library Service to Teens (YALSA): YALSA is a division of ALA focused on library services to teens. It offers resources, publications, and professional development opportunities for librarians serving young adults.
• Reading Rockets: A national multimedia project that offers research-based resources to help educators and parents support children's literacy development.
• Storyblocks: A project by Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy (CLEL), Storyblocks provides videos demonstrating early literacy skills and activities for children.
• Jbrary: Jbrary is a YouTube channel and website dedicated to promoting early literacy through songs, rhymes, and fingerplays. It's a valuable resource for storytime planning.