CityGov is proud to partner with Datawheel, the creators of Data USA, to provide our community with powerful access to public U.S. government data. Explore Data USA

Skip to main content
Plot Twist: Libraries Are Cooler Than You Think

Plot Twist: Libraries Are Cooler Than You Think

Libraries- The Original Life Hack

Forget the gym membership, overpriced coffee, or your latest self-improvement app- public libraries have been quietly helping people level up for centuries. Sure, they offer free books (and yes, that alone saves you serious money), but libraries are doing way more than that. They’re where curiosity meets career goals, where toddlers discover stories, and where seniors meet new friends. In short, libraries are one of the smartest investments any community can make.

More Than Just Bookshelves

Libraries are basically community super-centers in disguise. They’re safe, welcoming spaces where everyone- from students cramming for exams to new parents needing advice- can find support. Many libraries host classes, lectures, and workshops on everything from coding to creative writing. For job seekers, libraries often provide résumé feedback, interview prep sessions, and even free certification courses that build career-ready skills. Some branches host small business workshops or help patrons learn digital tools they need to thrive in the modern workplace.

Starting Early: Literacy and Lifelong Learning

Children’s programs remain some of the most popular library activities, but they’re far more than story time. Today’s libraries design literacy experiences that get kids moving, making, and imagining while sneakily building reading and language skills. Parents benefit too- they gain guidance, educational resources, and connections to community services. In many neighborhoods, the public library is the first (and most trusted) place families turn for early learning support.

Community Spaces and Social Connection

Libraries also serve as the beating heart of local life. They host community meetings, cultural celebrations, and even pop-up art exhibits. Ever been to a library concert or film screening? They’re often free, fun, and packed with familiar faces. For older adults, these events—or even casual book clubs—offer crucial social connection and a cure for isolation. Libraries make it easy to belong somewhere, no membership card required (unless you want to take the new mystery novel home, of course).

Real Help for Everyday Challenges

Modern libraries have evolved into hubs for practical life support. Need help registering to vote? Navigating health insurance forms? Understanding tenant rights? Your local library probably has a specialist—or at least reliable guidance—to point you in the right direction. Some even partner with social workers, healthcare providers, or civic organizations to host health screenings or info sessions about housing assistance. Libraries help people manage life’s complicated stuff, quietly and compassionately.

Supporting Students and Lifelong Learners

Beyond homework help and tutoring services, libraries give students a calm, tech-equipped place to focus. They’re internet access points for those without reliable Wi-Fi at home and study havens for anyone needing a quiet space. Bookmobiles, digital lending, and teen-led volunteer programs extend that mission outside the building walls, bringing resources directly to the neighborhoods that need them most. In today’s busy, screen-heavy world, the library is one of the few places where learning still feels human.

Conclusion: Your Library Is Waiting

Public libraries prove what happens when communities invest in belonging. They reduce isolation, boost literacy, support local economies, and open doors to knowledge- without charging admission. So the next time you walk by your local branch, don’t just see a building full of books; see a launchpad for ideas, connections, and change. Step inside- you might just find your next great story waiting on the other side of the checkout desk.

Bibliography

American Library Association. “Trends in Public Library Service Delivery.” Public Library Association, 2022. https://www.ala.org/pla/resources/tools/public-library-trends.

Institute of Museum and Library Services. “Public Libraries in the United States Survey.” IMLS, 2023. https://imls.gov/research-evaluation.

National Civic League. “The Role of Libraries in Civic Engagement.” NationalCivicLeague.org, 2021. https://www.nationalcivicleague.org/resource-center/library-civic-engagement.

Public Library Association. “Career and Workforce Development Resources.” American Library Association, 2023. https://www.ala.org/pla/resources/tools/workforce.

Urban Libraries Council. “Libraries as Social Infrastructure.” ULC Research Report, 2024. https://www.urbanlibraries.org/resources/libraries-as-social-infrastructure.

More from 2 Topics

Explore related articles on similar topics

Top Paying Jobs in Education and Media and Messaging

Highest paying opportunities related to this article

FULL TIME
Interim Director of Student Financial Aid
Rhode Island College

ABOUT THE ROLE The Interim Director of Student Financial Aid is a strategic, student-centered leader responsible for designing and delivering a comprehensive financial aid program at Rhode Island College. This temporary position oversees all financial aid operations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations while driving data-informed decision-making and fiscal integrity. The Director serves as the College’s primary expert on financial aid policy, partnering across campus to align aid programs with enrollment and retention goals, and championing equitable outcomes for diverse and first-generation student populations. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Manage coordination and delivery of federal, state, institutional, and private student aid funds - Serve as primary Compliance Officer for Title IV federal aid and state aid regulations; coordinate FISAP, HEERF, Common Data Set, and IPEDS reporting - Manage the overall College financial aid budget, including creating/updating packaging formulas and ensuring fiscal accountability - Plan, develop, implement, and evaluate financial aid policies and procedures to meet student needs and support enrollment goals - Administer awarding of financial aid packages (Pell, SEOG, State Aid, Work Study, etc.) and oversee verification processes - Manage Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) process, including policy reviews and appeal evaluations - Liaise with Admissions, Business Office, Registrar, and other departments to ensure integrated transactional activities - Provide leadership, supervision, training, and professional development for financial aid staff - Coordinate the College scholarship process and liaise with Alumni Relations and the College Foundation - Manage EdConnect, Common Origination and Disbursement (COD), and Department of Education interfaces - Develop and coordinate financial literacy workshops, orientation sessions, and recruitment events - Prepare statistical data and reports to inform recruitment strategies and improve student completion - Maintain and modify manuals of policies and procedures to ensure compliance and efficiency - Counsel students and parents on financial aid needs and concerns, modeling excellent customer service MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Master’s degree - Experience: Minimum of four years of full-time experience in the administration of student financial aid services at the college or university level - Experience must be progressively more responsible and include some supervisory elements - Skills and Abilities: - Demonstrated knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid policies and need-analysis theory - Demonstrated analytical, communication, and managerial skills - Ability to provide strong leadership and implement policies with a focus on customer service - Understanding and sensitivity to the needs of diverse, first-generation, and low-income student populations - Demonstrated intercultural competency and experience using data for equitable practices - Excellent oral, written, interpersonal, and technical skills SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Visa Sponsorship: The college is unable to provide visa sponsorship; candidates must have authorization to work in the US without employer sponsorship - Position Status: Temporary assignment ending May 29, 2027 - Direct Reports: Yes - Preferred Qualifications: - Experience with Peoplesoft is desirable - Full-time experience at or above the Associate Director level SELECTION PROCESS - Application review based on required documents (Resume) and supplemental questions - Verification of Master’s degree and minimum four years of progressive financial aid experience with supervisory elements - Standard higher education hiring procedures apply HOW TO APPLY - Posting Number: NC00854 - Application Open Date: June 17, 2026 - Application Close Date: Open until filled - Required Documents: Resume - Optional Documents: Cover Letter - Apply through the Rhode Island College official employment portal EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Schedule: Full-Time, 35 Hours per week, Monday through Friday - Location: Rhode Island College, Enrollment Management Department - Division: Student Success Division - Collective Bargaining Unit: PSA - Benefits: Full-time employees receive medical, dental, vision, wellness incentives, paid time off, retirement benefits, disability/insurance benefits, and tuition waivers for RIC, CCRI, and URI - Equal Opportunity Employer: Rhode Island College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, or any other protected status

Providence, Rhode Island
$100,000-$120,000
EducationAdministration and AppointmentsManagement and Finance
14 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Director of Sponsored Programs
Rhode Island College

ABOUT THE ROLE Rhode Island College seeks an experienced and collaborative Director of the Office of Sponsored Programs to advance the College’s research enterprise and expand external funding. Reporting to the Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, this role provides leadership in grant development, research collaboration, and regulatory compliance. The Director leads all pre-award sponsored program functions, supports faculty and staff in proposal and budget development, and ensures compliance with state and federal regulations. This position works closely with academic units, external partners, and the Rhode Island College Foundation to identify funding opportunities and diversify revenue streams. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead and support campus-wide and community collaborations to advance institutional, research, and strategic initiatives - Serve as the Vice Provost’s liaison to internal and external partners to advance institutional priorities and research capacity - Identify and cultivate funding opportunities, connecting them with faculty and staff expertise - Advance the profile of the College’s research enterprise through reports, publications, and metrics - Direct all functions of the Office of Sponsored Programs - Work closely with the Rhode Island College Foundation to diversify revenue streams - Lead and facilitate the development of interdisciplinary research initiatives and grant proposals - Direct and coordinate pre-award processes within the office and across academic/administrative units - Supervise the office’s Grant and Contract Specialist in proposal development, submission, award set-up, and modifications - Ensure College compliance with all relevant federal and state regulations governing research activities - Develop and publish new college policies and procedures to address compliance requirements as needed - Serve as the authorized official on grants and contracts for external funding - Assist personnel in maintaining and improving grant management software MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Bachelor’s Degree - Experience: Ten years of relevant experience, with at least seven of those years in grant development and management - Skills and Knowledge: - Demonstrated success in building internal and external partnerships and facilitating research collaborations - Successful record of public and/or private proposal development and submission - Extensive knowledge of standard pre- and post-award processes of sponsored programs and supporting software - Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with diverse internal and external audiences - Demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Work Authorization: Candidates must have authorization to work in the US without the need for employer sponsorship; visa sponsorship is not available - Schedule: Full-Time, Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM - Direct Reports: Yes (Supervises Grant and Contract Specialist) SELECTION PROCESS - Applicants must answer supplemental questions regarding degree status and grant development/management experience - Required documents include Resume and Cover Letter - Equal Opportunity Employer: Rhode Island College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, or any other protected status HOW TO APPLY - Apply via the Rhode Island College official application portal - Submit required documents: Resume and Cover Letter - Optional documents may be uploaded - Application Open Date: April 9, 2026 - Application Close Date: Open until filled EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Position Number: NC00841 - Department: Office of Sponsored Programs - Division: Academic Affairs Division - Position Type: Staff - Non Classified - FLSA Status: Exempt - Full Time / Part Time: Full-time - Position Status: Continuing - Reports To: Vice Provost for Academic Affairs - Collective Bargaining Unit: PSA - Location: Rhode Island College, Providence, RI - Benefits: Health and Wellness (Medical, Dental, Vision), Wellness Incentives, Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Holiday), Retirement Benefits, Disability and Insurance Benefits, Education Benefits (Tuition waivers for RIC, CCRI, & URI)

Providence, Rhode Island
$90,000-$110,000
EducationAdministration and AppointmentsManagement and Finance
14 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Director of Partnerships and Placements
Rhode Island College

ABOUT THE ROLE The Director of Partnerships and Placements provides strategic leadership for developing, managing, and evaluating partnerships with PK–12 schools, districts, and community organizations to support high-quality clinical experiences for students in the Feinstein School of Education and Human Development (FSEHD). Reporting to the Dean with direction from the Associate Dean, this role oversees all field placements, student teaching assignments, internships, and related training programs. The Director ensures compliance with state, accreditation, and certification requirements while strengthening collaborative relationships and promoting equity-focused placement opportunities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Establish and maintain mutually beneficial clinical partnerships with PK-12 schools and community agencies, including Tier I and Tier II partnerships. - Recruit, select, and support a diverse group of partner schools and organizations that prioritize educator diversity. - Oversee and coordinate all field experience placements, student teaching (Residency I and II), internships, and training for undergraduate and graduate programs. - Conduct regular visits to schools and agencies to create new or strengthen existing partnership agreements. - Supervise the Assistant Director of Partnerships and Placements and the department’s Administrative Assistant. - Develop and maintain a system for managing placements and matching teacher candidates with clinical educators. - Serve as a mediator between FSEHD personnel and teacher candidates regarding placement disputes. - Design and conduct training for college supervisors and clinical educators on best practices for mentoring. - Collaborate with faculty and the Associate Dean to support teacher candidates in passing Praxis exams and monitor pass rates. - Analyze teacher candidate data and outcomes to improve clinical experiences and program quality. - Implement annual monitoring and evaluation of field placements, cooperating teachers, and partnerships. - Ensure FSEHD meets RIDE standards, state-level initiatives, and accreditation requirements. - Contribute to biannual Title II reporting to the U.S. Department of Education. - Produce an annual report for the Office of Partnerships aligned with strategic goals. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: - Master’s degree in Education or related field from an accredited institution. Experience: - Prior education administration experience at the departmental, school, or district level. - Minimum of three (3) years’ experience working in PK-12 schools and higher education, specifically in developing relationships, creating partnerships, and conducting professional development. Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities: - Ability to mediate disputes, resolve problems, and implement solutions. - Knowledge of Rhode Island Standards for Educator Preparation. - Ability to maintain confidentiality. - Flexibility and creativity in problem-solving with the ability to multi-task. - Ability to manage and collaborate with a team of faculty, supervisors, teachers, and school administrators. - Facility with the Microsoft Office suite. - Ability to travel to schools throughout Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, and attend conferences elsewhere in the US. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must have authorization to work in the US without the need for employer sponsorship (visa sponsorship is not available). - References may be requested. - Preferred Qualifications: Bilingual abilities. SELECTION PROCESS - Applicants must answer supplemental questions confirming their Master’s degree and minimum three years of relevant experience. - Review of required documents (Resume and Cover Letter). - Evaluation based on qualifications, experience in partnership development, and leadership capabilities. HOW TO APPLY - Submit the following required documents: - Resume - Cover Letter - Application Open Date: 06/22/2026 - Application Close Date: Open until filled (no specific date listed). EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Institution: Rhode Island College - Division: Academic Affairs Division - Department: Feinstein School of Education and Human Development - Position Type: Staff - Non Classified - Position Status: Continuing - Reports To: Dean of the Feinstein School of Education and Human Development - Work Schedule: Full-Time, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM - Collective Bargaining Unit: PSA - Benefits: Full-time employees receive Medical, Dental & Vision, Wellness Incentives, Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Holiday), Retirement Benefits, Disability/Insurance, and Education Benefits (Tuition waivers for RIC, CCRI & URI). - EEO Statement: Rhode Island College is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Providence, Rhode Island
$90,000-$100,000
EducationManagement and FinanceAdministration and Appointments
14 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Director of Assessment & Accreditation
Rhode Island College

ABOUT THE ROLE Rhode Island College’s Feinstein School of Education and Human Development (FSEHD) is seeking a dynamic and data-savvy leader to serve as Director of Assessment and Accreditation. This role leads school-wide assessment efforts, drives continuous program improvement, and oversees state and national accreditation processes. The Director utilizes large data sets to drive program improvement and supports faculty and staff with assessment processes and documentation required for accreditation. The position reports to the Dean of FSEHD and serves on the Dean’s leadership team. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Direct assessment-related activities consistent with the FSEHD mission, vision, and continuous improvement process. - Collect and maintain school-wide assessment data, including key assessments, survey results, and student learning outcomes. - Analyze and interpret data for informed decision-making to drive program improvement. - Document and communicate assessment results to internal and external stakeholders, reporting strengths, challenges, trends, and opportunities. - Lead the accreditation process for educator preparation programs, ensuring program quality and compliance. - Serve as a member of the Dean’s leadership team and the FSEHD Assessment and Program Improvement Committee. - Provide expert consultation to FSEHD personnel regarding research methodology, data management, analysis, interpretation, and visualization. - Execute duties related to creating a sustainable accountability culture in the FSEHD. - Support grant and research-related activities in collaboration with the Dean. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: - Earned master’s or doctorate in Education, assessment and evaluation, statistics, or related field with relevant experience. Experience: - Assessment and evaluation experience relevant to higher education. - Experience with educator-preparation or student learning-outcomes assessment. - State and/or national accreditation experience. - Experience with continuous improvement or program review processes to improve curriculum and student outcomes. - Survey development and assessment strategies for measuring impact and outcomes. - Leadership and administrative experience. Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities: - Strong background in quantitative and qualitative assessment and evaluation. - Ability to effectively present data in graphical format. - Skills in designing, administering, and analyzing assessment instruments (e.g., rubrics, test blueprints, alumni surveys). - Strong statistical analysis and computing skills, including proficiency in MS Office, database systems, statistical and survey software, and contemporary digital technologies. - Familiarity with web-based platforms to manage assessment data. - Ability to provide professional development in assessment through coaching or presentations. - Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills. - Strong initiative and effective organizational and time management skills. - Strong verbal and written communication skills with flexibility to adapt to diverse audiences. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must have authorization to work in the US without the need for employer sponsorship (visa sponsorship is not available). - Preferred Qualifications: Doctorate in Education, assessment and evaluation, statistics, or related field; experience with CAEP, AAQEP, or state program approval; at least three years’ administrative experience at the college/university level; bilingual abilities. SELECTION PROCESS - Applicants must answer the supplemental question confirming their earned master’s or doctorate in a relevant field. - Review of required documents (Resume and Cover Letter). - Evaluation based on analytical expertise, accreditation experience, and leadership capabilities. HOW TO APPLY - Submit the following required documents: - Resume - Cover Letter - Application Open Date: 02/19/2026 - Application Close Date: Open until filled (no specific date listed). EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Institution: Rhode Island College - Division: Academic Affairs Division - Department: Feinstein School of Education and Human Development - Position Type: Staff - Non Classified - Position Status: Continuing - Reports To: Dean of the Feinstein School of Education and Human Development - Work Schedule: Full-Time, 35 Hours, Monday through Friday - Collective Bargaining Unit: PSA - Benefits: Full-time employees receive Medical, Dental & Vision, Wellness Incentives, Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Holiday), Retirement Benefits, Disability/Insurance, and Education Benefits (Tuition waivers for RIC, CCRI & URI). - EEO Statement: Rhode Island College is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Providence, Rhode Island
$85,000-$98,000
EducationManagement and FinanceAdministration and Appointments
14 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Director of the Division of College, Career, and Student Success - 36506
State of South Dakota

ABOUT THE ROLE The South Dakota Department of Education is seeking an innovative leader to serve as the Director for the Division of College, Career, and Student Success. This critical leadership role involves developing vision and strategy to ensure students have the necessary experiences and supports to graduate high school and achieve success afterward. The position oversees state efforts in Career and Technical Education, Jobs for America’s Graduates, student wellness, career development, and high school equivalency. As a member of the Department leadership team, the Director reports to the Deputy Secretary of Education and collaborates with various state agencies, postsecondary systems, and business/industry partners. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide vision and oversight for educational pathways, ensuring college, career, and life readiness for all students - Oversee Career and Technical Education, Jobs for America’s Graduates, student wellness, and high school equivalency programs - Manage business and industry outreach and collaboration - Align and engage with postsecondary education systems - Develop policy, manage staffing, and oversee budgeting - Orchestrate educational programs and workforce education efforts - Manage grants and integrate with departmental initiatives - Collaborate with other state agencies including Labor and Regulation, Economic Development, Social Services, Board of Technical Education, and Board of Regents - Support Jobs for America’s Graduates-South Dakota in dropout prevention and student engagement - Lead career development and student wellness efforts, including school counseling and suicide prevention - Craft and oversee budgets, grants, contracts, and fiscal reporting - Build, hire, retain, coach, and mentor a strong team - Ensure high standards of quality in services and programs - Build relationships with superintendents, principals, legislators, community leaders, and public/private sector partners - Understand federal regulations and coordinate with the U.S. Department of Education MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Experience: Successful experience in leadership positions in education administration, public administration, business, or related fields - Accomplished in facilitating large initiatives, bringing diverse groups together, policy development, staff deployment, strategic planning, grant administration, and lobbying - Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred in education, business, public administration, or related fields - Knowledge of educational opportunities and pathways for academic and workforce success - Knowledge of modern communication styles for creating and delivering compelling messages - Knowledge of leadership methods focused on strategic thinking, service, accountability, and follow-through - Ability to build coalitions across multiple levels and systems SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to travel approximately 20% (in-state and out-of-state) - Must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States (Form I-9 and E-Verify required) - The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas - National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC): Optional but encouraged; if possessed, submit with application SELECTION PROCESS - Applications must be submitted online via the provided link - Email submissions will not be accepted - Cover letter and resume must be attached to be considered HOW TO APPLY - Apply online at: https://gen-stateofsouthdako-trn.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=4A7 - Attach cover letter and resume - If applicable, attach National Career Readiness Certificate - Closing Date: July 16, 2026 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Pierre, SD - Agency: Department of Education - Division of College, Career, and Student Success - Job ID: 36506 - Full-time position - Exempt from the Civil Service Act - Benefits: $0 premium employee health insurance option, eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, other insurance options, and retirement benefits (Class A retirement under SDRS) - Contact: South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources and Administration, Telephone: 605.773.3148, Email: careers@state.sd.us - Equal Opportunity Employer

Pierre, South Dakota
85,900 - 96,500 US per year
EducationManagement and FinancePublic Policy
14 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Deputy General Counsel - 36414
State of South Dakota

ABOUT THE ROLE The South Dakota Department of Education is seeking a full-time attorney to serve as Deputy General Counsel. This position reports to the General Counsel and provides legal services to department staff, associated boards, and commissions. The role involves representing the department in administrative proceedings and litigation, providing legal advice on education law, and coordinating ethics investigations. Minimal travel is required. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Represent the department as a Special Assistant Attorney General in administrative proceedings and litigation in State and federal court - Provide legal advice and representation to the South Dakota Board of Education Standards, teacher and administrator ethics commissions, and other department boards - Coordinate investigations regarding teacher and administrator ethics issues - Provide legal counsel to department staff on the interpretation and application of State and federal laws related to education, schools, and public agencies - Respond to legal inquiries from school districts and the public - Draft statutes and administrative rules - Review contracts, joint powers agreements, and related documents - Perform other duties as assigned MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Graduate of an accredited law school - Member of the South Dakota State Bar - Qualify for appointment as a Special Assistant Attorney General - Three or more years of experience preferred - Excellent verbal and written communication skills - Strong work ethic and ability to organize and prioritize tasks - Interest in education law SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must attach a resume and a writing sample to be considered - National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) may be submitted but is not required - Veterans’ Preference is eligible per ARSD 55:10:02:08 - Must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States (Form I-9 and E-Verify required) - The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas - This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act SELECTION PROCESS - Applications reviewed based on attached resume and writing sample HOW TO APPLY - Apply online at: https://gen-stateofsouthdako-trn.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=481 - You must apply online; emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted - Attach your resume and a writing sample - Closing Date: Open Until Filled EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Pierre, SD - Agency: Department of Education - Job ID: 36414 - Benefits: $0 premium employee health insurance option, eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, other insurance options, and retirement benefits (Class A retirement under SDRS) - Contact: South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources and Administration, Telephone: 605.773.3148, Email: careers@state.sd.us

Pierre, South Dakota
79,200 - 95,770 US per year
EducationPolicy & PoliticsManagement and Finance
14 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Childrens Librarian II
City of Boston

ABOUT THE ROLE The Boston Public Library is seeking a Childrens Librarian II to assume responsibility for the effective execution of library programs serving a diverse urban population, with a specific emphasis on children. This professional role requires substantial knowledge and experience in library science, particularly in children's literature and programming. The incumbent will report to the Branch Librarian or ranking staff member and may supervise professional and non-professional staff as assigned. The position involves initiating, developing, and implementing services through consultations, reference work, outreach, and interactive community engagement. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Initiate, develop, plan, and implement library programs for children through personal consultations, reference, readers’ advisory services, outreach, and programs - Develop interactive relationships within the neighborhood to stimulate use of library resources by the community, schools, and agencies serving children and families - Plan and conduct comprehensive programming for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children, including story hours, book talks, craft programs, puppetry, book discussion groups, and summer reading programs - Perform readers’ advisory services and handle difficult or involved reference work for the general public - Provide instruction to increase patrons’ skills in using book resources and electronic databases - Manage program funds assigned to children’s services - Develop the children’s book collection and manage the appropriate materials budget - Compile annotated lists and bibliographies involving book and non-book materials - Recommend and/or plan changes in service or new services for children - Prepare oral presentations and written reports on children’s activities within the branch library - Assist in training professional and non-professional staff - Assume responsibility for day-to-day branch operations in the absence of the Branch Librarian or other ranking staff - Actively participate in system-wide committees, training, and professional activities - Represent the Library on city-wide and state-wide committees as needed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university - A master’s degree in library science from an accredited library school - Courses in children’s literature and children’s work taken for credit from an accredited library school - Two (2) years of pertinent professional library experience, or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training sufficient to indicate the ability to do the work - Broad knowledge of library policies, practices, and procedures - Extensive knowledge of children’s literature, including bibliographic tools and sources - Demonstrated knowledge of techniques for programming for children - Demonstrated interest in children and library work with children - Demonstrated ability and willingness to develop strong, interactive community relationships - Demonstrated ability and willingness to assume responsibility and carry out assignments independently - Proven oral and written communication skills - Ability to search the Internet and other electronic databases - Demonstrated ability to work well with staff and public; initiative, dependability, tact, and courtesy - Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Boston Residency Required - Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information (CORI) check with the City of Boston - Storytelling courses and/or experience are desirable - In exceptional instances, specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the educational requirements SELECTION PROCESS - Contact Email for inquiries: adavis@bpl.org - The City of Boston is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion HOW TO APPLY - Click "Apply for this job" on the posting to submit an application - Applications can be emailed to a friend or shared on social media via the provided links EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: BPL Children, Boston, MA - Department: Boston Public Library - Position Type: Regular Full-Time - Req ID: 2026-31959 - Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA/P-2 - Hours per week: 35 - Posting End Date: 11/20/2026 - Openings: 1

Boston, Massachusetts
69,070.95- 89,571.13
EducationAdministration and AppointmentsHiring and Onboarding
1 day ago
Apply
FULL TIME
SY 26-27 Anticipated Regular Teacher (Middle School Social Studies TAT)
Chicago Public Schools (CPS)

ABOUT THE ROLE This is a union position for a Middle School Social Studies Teacher located at Norman Bridge Elementary (3800 North New England Avenue) on the North/Northwest Side. Under the supervision of the school principal, the teacher is responsible for the instruction, progress, and discipline of all pupils in assigned classes. The role involves instructional planning, implementing contemporary teaching methodologies, and fostering a positive learning environment while adhering to the Chicago Public Schools' Uniform Discipline Code. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide written lesson plans and preparation in accordance with instructional program objectives. - Establish positive learning expectation standards and evaluate pupil progress. - Maintain current and accurate records of pupil achievements, attendance, and seating charts. - Implement instructional methods using contemporary principles of learning theory and available materials. - Participate in the development and implementation of new teaching techniques. - Create bulletin boards and interest areas reflective of pupils' current work. - Exhibit knowledge of curriculum content related to subject areas and instructional levels. - Participate in programs to improve student attendance and promote anti-vandalism initiatives. - Establish and maintain reasonable rules of conduct in classrooms and on school grounds. - Encourage student growth in self-discipline and positive self-concept. - Initiate conferences with parents, guardians, administrators, and ancillary personnel. - Communicate with parents regarding academic progress, attendance, and conduct. - Participate in in-service meetings, professional staff meetings, and extra-curricular activities. - Coordinate and attend class field trips and utilize community resources. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Successful completion of all student teaching requirements. - Completion of all coursework required to obtain appropriate teaching certificate(s) issued by the Illinois State Board of Education. - Possession of a valid Professional Educator License (PEL) or Educator License with Stipulations (ELS), properly endorsed for this position. - Knowledge of subject matter consistent with state certification requirements. - Knowledge of contemporary principles and practices of teaching. - Knowledge of classroom and behavior management techniques. - Ability to modify instruction to meet student needs. - Ability to cooperate with faculty and administration in developing articulated instruction programs. - Ability to work effectively with pupils, parents, staff, and community representatives. - Good oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills. - Skill in exercising sound and professional judgment. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Physical Requirements: Light work exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, or up to 10 pounds frequently. Includes ability to stoop occasionally, reach frequently, handle objects, talk and hear constantly, and use near visual acuity frequently. - Must understand the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional patterns of pupils. - Must ensure fairness in teacher-pupil relationships and exhibit respect for students. SELECTION PROCESS - Specific selection steps are not detailed in the posting, but candidates must meet the minimum education, license, and skill requirements listed above. - Applications are likely evaluated based on qualifications, experience, and alignment with Chicago Public Schools standards. HOW TO APPLY - Apply through the Chicago Public Schools career portal using Job Number 260001RH. - Ensure all licensing and certification documents are current and valid upon application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Position Type: Union Position - Primary Location: North/Northwest Side - Norman Bridge Elem (3800 North New England Avenue) - Posting Date: July 10, 2026 - Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage (Medical, Pharmacy, Dental, Vision, Behavioral Health), retirement options (Pension, 403(b), 457(b)), life and disability insurance, paid leave, sick leave, vacation days, parental leaves, and flexible spending accounts.

Chicago, Illinois
$64,469.94 to $82,839.39
EducationYouth ServicesCommunication and Speech
2 days ago
Apply