Log In
Sign Up
Nature of Work
This part-time position involves paraprofessional library work providing reference information and guidance to GRPL patrons with an overall emphasis on providing direct public service, and involves helping patrons access library resources in-person, over the phone, and via email. Work is performed under the general supervision of a librarian and may involve coordinating the work of other library employees and volunteers.
This particular position has an emphasis on working in a youth services capacity, so applicants need to be comfortable working with children as well as adult caregivers. In addition to the points outlined in the job description, applicants will need to enjoy engaging with the public (performing storytime as well as leading and participating in programs and classes for youth of all ages.)
This position is regularly scheduled for work at the West Side Branch with the following schedule:
Tue: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Wed: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Thu: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Fri: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Sat: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Examples of work:
Provides engaging public service to library patrons in-person, over the phone, and via email; assists patrons with periodical, book, and database searches; assists with interlibrary loan; provides books-on-hold service; uses other basic reference tools.
Assists with planning and implementation programs and services.
Prepares and presents programming, including storytime in an engaging, entertaining manner according to GRPL's curriculum and standards.
Develops meaningful relationships with families and helps build community among program participants.
Represents GRPL at community events and outreach opportunities.
Develops bibliographies, pathfinders, and finding aids in support of Readers' Advisory and reference services.
Provides instruction to patrons in groups or individually.
Maintains the inventory of library holdings and updates the inventory as needed.
Maintains statistics for branches and special programs.
Creates and maintains book displays; participates in programming efforts; visits schools and other agencies; and speaks to groups about library materials.
Maintains records, correspondence, inventories and other general office functions.
May be assigned to assist at different branches as necessary.
Performs other duties of a similar nature as assigned.
Minimum Training and Experience
Bachelor's degree or any equivalent combination of training and experience is required.
Previous public library experience is preferred.
Ability to effectively communicate verbally in Spanish is preferred.
Other Necessary Qualifications
Ability to work 20-24 hours per week.
Ability to work evenings and weekends.
Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with diverse groups both verbally and in writing.
Ability to provide engaging and consistent customer service.
Ability to work collaboratively with supervisor and coworkers.
Knowledge of modern library methods and techniques.
Knowledge of GRPL system and services offered.
Knowledge of community, books, and authors.
Ability to maintain library records and prepare reports.
Ability to solve research problems and provide reader's advisory service.
Knowledge of electronic reading devices and platforms; ability to assist and instruct patrons around hardware and software issues as they relate to library resources and public workstations.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time in the performance of the duties associated with this position. Lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds without assistance is also required; ability to access, input, and retrieve information from electronic devices is essential to this position.
Other Information
This position is open to the general public.
Please note the following:
Please fill out your work history completely.
If you have submitted an application for a different job opening in the past, please make sure your information is current before submitting for this or other opportunities. In particular, please verify your email address. Email will be the primary means of communication.
This position includes paid vacation, holiday, and sick time.
Please visit the library's jobs page for a list of other open positions at Grand Rapids Public Library. All inquiries related to this posting should be directed to:
Grand Rapids Public Library
111 Library St NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-988-5400
jobs@grpl.org
Recommended Skills
- Writing skills
- Customer service
