About the Role
About CM Youth Center:
The Government of Meghalaya, in partnership with Sauramandala Foundation (www.sauramandala.org) and Project DEFY (www.projectdefy.org), has established 22 rural SDL (Self-directed learning) centres for youth, called the Chief Minister's Youth Center with an aim to build resilience, sustainability, and problem-solving skills in the next generation of the community. The youth centres are established to bridge the digital divide with the help of innovation and entrepreneurship skills by providing access to the Internet along with open learning opportunities. The main features of the centre are a Nook (SDL space), a Library/Arts and a Sports program. The learning is open to all ages to have more involvement from the community.
About the Role:
The Manager - Library Specialist will play a crucial role in shaping and managing the libraries within the Chief Minister’s Youth Centres (CMYCs). The SME-LSM will be responsible for curating and managing resources, developing library programs, and ensuring that the libraries serve as vibrant learning hubs that promote joyous learning, life skills, and a love for reading among children and young adults. The SME will also train and mentor librarians, helping them integrate innovative library practices that support holistic child development.
Key Responsibilities
Resource Curation and Management:
Curate a diverse collection of books, educational materials, and digital resources tailored to the needs and interests of children and young adults in rural areas.
Ensure that library collections are up-to-date, relevant, and culturally appropriate, with a focus on promoting joyous learning, a love for reading and lifelong learning.
Oversee the cataloguing and classification of library materials, ensuring efficient organisation and easy access for learners.
2. Program Development:
Design and implement library programs that promote reading habits, life skills, and a love for learning.
Develop specialised programs that integrate life skills, such as critical thinking, empathy, and communication, into library activities.
Collaborate with educators and community leaders to create programs that align with the broader educational goals of the CMYCs.
3. Training and Mentorship:
Train and mentor librarians in best practices for library management, interactive learning, and child/learner engagement.
Develop and deliver training modules on topics such as library management, storytelling, reading facilitation, and child psychology.
Provide ongoing support to librarians, helping them address challenges and continuously improve their efforts.
4. Library Operations Management:
Oversee the day-to-day operations of the libraries within the CMYCs, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and stimulating environment for all learners.
Implement policies and procedures that ensure efficient library operations, including circulation, inventory and overall data management for all library programs.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of library programs and efforts, making recommendations for improvements.
5. Community Engagement and Outreach:
Lead efforts to engage the community, majorly families/parents/guardians, including the members of the Village Executive Council (VECs) in library activities, fostering a culture of reading and learning.
Organise events, workshops, and reading campaigns that encourage participation and raise awareness of the library's resources.
Build partnerships with local organisations, schools, and community groups to support and promote inclusive community libraries.
6. Innovation and Best Practices:
Stay current with trends and innovations in library science and management, applying new ideas and technologies to improve CMYC libraries.
Foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the libraries, encouraging experimentation and the adoption of best practices.
Develop and implement strategies for integrating digital literacy and e-learning resources into the library's offerings.ership Development:
Eligibility:
Minimum of 3-5 years in core Library Science, with a preference for overall work experience of 6-9 years in the non-profit or social sector.
Experience in rural community development or education in North East India is highly desirable.
Strong knowledge of library science principles, including cataloguing, classification, and collection development.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to train and mentor staff effectively.
Experience in program development, particularly in the areas of literacy promotion and life skills integration.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, with strong organisational and time-management skills.
Proficiency in using library management systems and digital resources.
Strong leadership qualities with the ability to inspire and motivate a team.