Library Educator (PT)

School Overview 

Valley Beth Shalom Harold M. Schulweis Day School is a K-6 independent Jewish Day School located on the Valley Beth Shalom Synagogue campus in Encino, California. The school was founded in 1978 by nationally renowned Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis z"l, and established to provide both a stellar General Studies and Judaic studies curriculum. Rabbi Schulweis believed that school should be a place where students grapple with questions and issues cultivating their critical thinking and learning to take action to make the world a better place. He believed this should be done in an environment that fostered strong Jewish values and active involvement in Jewish experiences and community. 45+ years later, the school stands true to the original mission as a forward- thinking learning environment, linking traditional Jewish values and teaching to modern-day decision making and action, all within a vibrant and nurturing Jewish community. 

Position Overview

The Library Educator is responsible for developing, managing, and overseeing the Rosen Family Library. This role ensures the acquisition, organization, and integration of print, digital, and multimedia resources. The Library Educator provides leadership, expertise, and advocacy to align the library media program with the mission and goals of VBS Day School and the VBS Early Childhood Center.

Essential Responsibilities

Library Collection & Literacy Programs

• Curate and maintain a diverse, inclusive, and engaging collection of print and digital resources.
  
  
• Foster a culture of literacy through reading programs, book clubs, author visits, and storytelling sessions.
  
  
• Collaborate with teachers to integrate library resources into classroom instruction, research assignments, and literacy activities.
  
  
• Teach students research skills and responsible technology use to support academic success.
  
  
• Guide students in information literacy, media literacy, and critical thinking to promote independent learning.

Collaboration & Curriculum Integration

• Work with the Principal, Director of Teaching and Learning, and Director of Jewish Life and Learning to integrate literature, project-based learning, and technology into the curriculum.
  
  
• Support faculty and staff by recommending instructional materials, research tools, and reading selections aligned with curriculum goals.
  
  
• Introduce early library literacy skills to preschool students to foster a love of reading.

Library Operations & Technology

• Maintain a user-friendly, organized, and welcoming library environment conducive to study and collaboration.
  
  
• Implement and manage library technology, including online databases, digital archives, and multimedia tools.
  
  
• Plan and coordinate school-wide literacy events, such as book fairs, reading challenges, and community literacy initiatives.
  
  
• Recruit, train, and oversee library volunteers for shelving, cataloging, and event coordination.
  
  
• Manage the library budget, track expenditures, and advocate for resources to enhance offerings.
  
  
• Regularly assess library programs, student engagement, and resource usage to guide improvements.

Other Responsibilities

• Provide basic troubleshooting support for computers, A/V equipment, and hardware issues.
  
  
• Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Library Media, Library Science, or a related field preferred.
  
  
• Library Services Certification or degree in Library Sciences preferred.
  
  
• Proficiency in computer use, including database management, internet research, and word processing.
  
  
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
  
  
• Ability to work independently, multitask, and meet deadlines.
  
  
• Knowledge of critical thinking, information evaluation, and literacy strategies.