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"How can I find library jobs in Boston while starting my grad program at Simmons?"
A recent Kenyon graduate preparing to begin her master’s at Simmons University reached out to alumni in Boston for advice. Passionate about children’s literature and librarianship, she wanted guidance on finding part-time work in a library while in graduate school.
An alum responded with both encouragement and practical help. He shared resources like the Minuteman Library Network and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners job board, while also offering to connect her directly with his library’s director and children’s program coordinator.
This exchange captures the heart of librarianship: connection, mentorship, and shared knowledge. By offering advice and opening doors, experienced librarians help the next generation find not just a job, but a future in a field that continues to evolve through both human relationships and technology.
Question
I’ll be starting my master’s program in library and information science and children’s literature at Simmons University this September. While I’m in Boston, I’m hoping to find part-time work in a library, especially in children’s services. I’d love any advice on where to look for opportunities and how to secure a role while in graduate school.
Response
Congratulations on choosing this career path and on starting your graduate studies at Simmons. Most of my career was in publishing, and I came to librarianship later. I have now been a circulation manager at a small library in the Hudson Valley for six years.
I’m familiar with one library system near Boston, the Minuteman Library Network (https://www.minlib.net/), which is an excellent resource. I use it frequently when setting up bibliographic records in the Mid-Hudson Library System.
For employment, I’d suggest exploring positions within the Minuteman Network. You can also search library jobs across Massachusetts here: https://mblc.state.ma.us/jobs/.
If you’d like, I’d be happy to chat about your career plans, and I’m sure the director and children’s program coordinator at my library would also be willing to speak with you briefly.
Congratulations again on graduating from Kenyon. I hope you enjoyed your time on The Hill. It is a college I deeply admire for its commitment to the principles of a liberal arts education.
Follow Up
Hello! I would really appreciate the opportunity to connect with your library’s director or children’s program coordinator. I think speaking with them would be very helpful for me.
Thank you also for sharing the resources. I’ll be sure to use them to look for a job while I’m in graduate school.
Impact
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