Library Science Advisor

Schools across Guyana were recently issued hundreds of books and are now searching for experienced librarians and reading enthusiasts to support the creation of school libraries.

Although more than 60% of students in grades 1–4 in Guyana meet the national standards, over 70% of middle school students perform below literacy benchmarks. Many students—particularly at those in rural and hinterland areas—struggle to master foundational skills due to teacher shortages and limited resources. To address these challenges, the Ministry of Education has launched several nationwide initiatives to bolster literacy skills, including distributing a set of over 350 storybooks to every elementary school and more than 150 to every middle and high school. The schools are now required to create libraries with sustainable management routines and reading clubs.

As a Library Science Advisor, you will collaborate with regional departments and schools to create a welcoming, organized, and engaging school library environment. Alongside the regional literacy coordinator and the national literacy unit staff, you will facilitate library‑based activities and provide management support to schools across the region. With your support, schools can close achievement gaps by ensuring every student has access to vivid stories that spark imagination, reinforce learning, and lay the foundation for long-term academic success.

Bachelor's degree in education, library sciences or a relevant field.
AND
Two or more years of experience in library science or related work.

Peace Corps Response Volunteers (PCRVs) serve in regional communities ranging from remote towns to semi‑urban villages. PCRVs will be accommodated in host families as a priority, with limited independent housing. Daily life may include modest living conditions with limited electricity, internet, and running water. While most sites are rural, Volunteers can visit larger markets monthly to restock supplies.

Expand your professional experience by helping schools to create inviting reading sanctuaries that cultivate a lifelong love of reading among young students.
Foster community engagement through literacy-focused activities that build capacity to sustain and grow school libraries.
Experience a unique Caribbean country and South American culture while building enduring relationships.

Assess the needs of schools for the establishment, refurbishment, or operationalization of school libraries.
Review, organize, catalog, and maintain a collection of age-appropriate literature.
Support school staff in designing and implementing library programs that meet student needs, including orientations, homework support, reading initiatives, and after‑school activities.
Provide training, resources, and professional development opportunities for educators and school staff on how to use library resources.
Help teachers integrate library materials and services into their classrooms, enhancing the learning experience for their students.
Advise on ways to get students to take on responsibility for maintaining the school library.
Encourage student curiosity through school-wide reading events.

You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as school-based and regional competitions to promote a culture of reading e.g. Summer Reading Competition, 1000 Word Challenge (learn 100 new words this semester)

After a two-week orientation on topics such as health and safety, you will move to an urban or rural community where you will collaborate with regional and national departments of governmental organizations to assess the needs and develop a work plan in line with their established goals.