Librarian I Job at Harris County Public Library in Houston

Overview

Harris County Public Library (HCPL) is a system established in 1921, serving unincorporated Harris County and cities without independent library systems. The network includes 26 branch libraries, two technology service centers, and two partner locations, providing collection and circulation services. In 2024, HCPL received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service for innovative initiatives such as HCPL Connected, Enhanced+ Library Cards, and the Mobile Outreach Librarian program. HCPL is recognized as a best place to work, offering a supportive and inclusive environment focused on innovation, collaboration, and professional growth, employee well-being, diversity, and community impact.

What you will do at Harris County Public Library

This position identifies and interprets user needs; plans and implements a variety of programs for various ages to encourage library usage and foster community relations; provides exceptional customer service, reference, and readers\' advisory; and assists patrons in the use of library services, facilities, and equipment. Leads Innovation and Maker Space Lab activities for a variety of ages and exemplifies high standards for the library system in daily operations and services.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Work with the public at various locations serving adults, young adults, and children; explain arrangements and resources of the library and assist patrons in their use; provide individual reading guidance and book selection.
• Locate and identify requested material and bibliographical information.
• Conduct online searches using a variety of electronic equipment and databases.
• Demonstrate the use of library catalogs and other reference aids.
• Research and respond to difficult or technical reference questions or complaints.
• Demonstrate superior customer service, integrity, and commitment to innovation, efficiency, and fiscally responsible activity.
• Plan, coordinate, and promote programs and services, including book clubs, story times, summer reading programs, library orientations, and homework assistance.
• Identify information needs in the community and plan and provide services to meet these needs.
• Develop and implement special programs and displays; evaluate existing programs and modify procedures as needed.
• Organize and maintain information files, indexes, bibliographies, and guides; assist in book selection and other library materials.
• Develop an engaging library collection aligned with current literature.
• Public relations activities in the library and community, including presentations and hosting activities and organizations; develop a public relations program for library services in the community.
• Oversee Innovation Lab and Maker Space activities; manage marketing including via social media.
• Provide reader\'s advisory and reference services; attend staff meetings, activities, and professional conferences; serve on committees; compile library activity reports and statistics.
• Oversee, monitor, and direct the work of lower-level personnel; exemplify high standards for daily operations and services.
• Other duties as assigned.

Equal Opportunity Employment

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need special services or accommodations, please call 713-274-5445 or email the ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net. This position is subject to a criminal history check; relevant convictions will be considered and may not automatically disqualify a candidate. Employment may close earlier than the advertised date due to high application volume.

Education & Experience

• Master\'s Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited university
• One (1) year of full-time customer service experience showing empathy, good communication, and problem-solving
• One (1) year of full-time experience designing, planning, and implementing educational activities for diverse ages in a learning environment

OR

• Bachelor\'s degree in any field; two (2) years of full-time customer service experience; two (2) years of full-time experience designing, planning, and implementing educational activities for diverse ages.

OR

• Associates degree or 60 hours of college credits; four (4) years of full-time customer service experience; four (4) years of full-time experience designing, planning, and implementing educational activities for diverse ages.

OR

• High school diploma or GED; six (6) years of full-time customer service experience; six (6) years of full-time experience designing and implementing educational activities for diverse ages.

Additional Requirements

• Unofficial copies of transcripts are required with the application.
• Available and reliable transportation for work-related duties.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Principles and practices of professional library work, including modern methods, techniques, and terminology.
• Theory and philosophy of librarianship; policies and procedures of the library system.
• Administration, budgeting, personnel administration, and public relations.
• Ability to establish and implement goals and objectives for the Library; initiative; discretion.
• Ability to analyze community needs and provide appropriate services; excellent customer service, empathy, and problem-solving.
• Strong communication skills; ability to work with diverse teams; self-discipline and independence.
• Proficiency with Internet, MS Office Suite, Office 365, social media, digital devices; ability to perform basic arithmetic.
• Must use personal mobile device for Multifactor Authentication.

Note: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on the job application. You may attach a resume as supporting documentation, but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. “See Resume” will not be accepted for qualifications. Experience: working with all age groups (preferred). Language: bilingual (preferred).

Position Details

• Position Type: Full-Time | Regular – 40 hours per week
• Typical shifts: Day, Evening, Nights, Weekends, etc.
• May require attending meetings or after-hours events and off-site meetings.
• Salary: $24.91 per hour; Paid Biweekly.

Work Environment

• Professional office environment with screen time; daily use of computer and standard office equipment.
• Software: Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, Word, Excel; GPS as applicable.
• Occasional outdoor work with possible inclement weather; transportation required; physical duties include lifting up to 40 pounds.

Reporting & Location

• Reports to Branch Manager and Assistant Branch Manager; no direct reports.
• Work Location: Jacinto City Branch Library - 921 Akron, Jacinto City.

Employment is contingent upon passing a background check. Positions may close prior to the advertised closing date at the discretion of the Hiring Department.