Open Books Mobile Coordinator

Open Books seeks an enthusiastic team player passionate about literacy in the City of Chicago to serve as Open Books Mobile Coordinator. The Open Books Mobile Coordinator will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations and outreach efforts of Open Books Mobile, our mobile book granting vehicle and for supporting our efforts to develop relationships in our priority communities. They will join a team of 30 staff members who seek to transform lives through reading, writing, and the unlimited power of books.

Core Responsibilities:

Operations & Logistics

• Manage and execute the Open Books Mobile schedule, coordinate and implement visits to schools, parks, community events, and other locations.
• Serve as the principal driver of Open Books Mobile, our mobile book granting vehicle.
• Communicate in English and Spanish with our communities through one on one interactions and translation of materials for publication.
• Ensure the Booksmobile is well-maintained, safe, and stocked with books and resources.
• Collaborate with the Book Access Manager to maintain the booksmobile inventory of books and materials. This includes: sorting book donations for Open Books Mobile at our Pilsen warehouse, collaborating across the organization to facilitate book buys, and with the Education team to ensure distribution of literacy materials.
• Collaborate with the Education team to execute special targeted events.
• Work with the Operations team to ensure regular working order and maintenance of the vehicle.

Community Outreach & Engagement

• As a part of the Community Engagement team, develop and maintain relationships with community organizations, schools, neighborhood networks, and event organizers to expand our program audience and Bookmobile services and visits.
• Promote Booksmobile visits through community networks, social media, and outreach events in English and in Spanish.
• Serve as the primary contact for inquiries about Booksmobile services and scheduling in English and in Spanish.
• Support planning of all community engagement initiatives.

Data & Reporting

• Track and report on Booksmobile usage, attendance, and feedback from community members to improve services.
• Monitor inventory levels and gather input on popular titles to inform future book acquisitions.
• Help ensure the overall health, vitality, and positive morale of Open Books.
• Uphold and regularly demonstrate the core values of Open Books: Accountability, Collaboration, Empowerment, Ingenuity, and Respect.

Role Requirements

• Valid IL driver’s license and ability and comfortability driving a large van.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Fluent Spanish speaking skills
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage inventory and visit schedule
• Experience with community organizing especially around issues facing youth and families in Chicago
• Experience working directly with youth and/or families
• Ability to communicate and collaborate across organizational departments
• Regularly move boxes of books on and off the vehicle (up to 30 lbs)
• Must be available to work nights and weekends year-round. During the summer months at least one weekend day will be required.
• Attendance required at special retail and program events including Independent Bookstore Day (April) and Printers Row Lit Fest (September), Open Books Slide Into Summer (June) and Lit Fest (August).