Harris County Public Library is hiring: Library Specialist I, Programming in Tow

Overview

Harris County Public Library (HCPL) - History

The Harris County Public Library (HCPL) system, established in 1921, began as a collection of small libraries located in stores, post offices, and private homes. Over the years, it has grown into a robust network comprising 26 branch libraries, two technology service centers, and two partner locations that provide collection and circulation services. HCPL serves the communities of unincorporated Harris County and cities without independent library systems.

In 2024, HCPL received the prestigious National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest honor awarded to libraries in the United States. Bestowed annually by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), this award recognizes institutions that deliver exceptional service to their communities. The library was recognized for innovative initiatives like HCPL Connected, Enhanced+ Library Cards, and its Mobile Outreach Librarian program.

HCPL is also recognized as one of the best places to work, offering a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Its dedication to employee well-being, diversity, and community impact makes HCPL more than just a workplace—it’s where individuals can grow, inspire, and contribute to meaningful change.

What you will do at Harris County Public Library

This position is responsible for creating and promoting programs for all ages. Provide customer service, reader’s advisor, basic reference service, and support lab activities. Exemplify the high standards and expectations for the library system in its daily operations and services.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide customer service, reader’s advisory, and basic reference service within and beyond our walls
• Plan and conduct training classes, programs and community outreach to customers of all ages.
• Promote library services to all ages in the community
• Collaborate with the branch team to develop, implement, and market programs in the library and community
• Develop and maintain cooperative relationships with local schools and community organizations
• Develop an engaging and attractive library collection
• Attend staff meetings, activities, and/or professional conferences and actively serve on committees
• Troubleshoot equipment problems
• Other duties as assigned

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Note: for EEO information, refer to the county’s Equal Employment Opportunity Plan. If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net. This position is subject to a criminal history check; only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university
• One (1) year of program experience (e.g., activities for all ages)

OR

• Associates degree in any field or 60 hours of secondary education credits from an accredited college or university
• Three (3) years of program experience (e.g., activities for all ages)

OR

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. Equivalent
• Five (5) years of program experience (e.g., activities for all ages)

With

• One (1) year of customer service experience

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Excellent communication skills (verbal & written)
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and foster teamwork in a diverse environment
• Ability to work well with public and staff members
• Proficient with Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.)
• Proficient with the Internet and Office 365
• Must use a personal mobile device for the Multifactor Authentication process

Note: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.

Language:

• Bilingual (preferred)

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work

• Full-time | Regular
• Position generally scheduled Monday - Saturday; occasionally weekend work.
• May require attendance at evening meetings, council sessions, or after-hour events and off-site meetings.
• Possible work in an outdoor environment with exposure to inclement weather or various temperature changes.

Salary

• Paid Biweekly

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Driving: Available and reliable transportation for work-related duties
• Office Equipment: Daily use of a computer, keyboard, copier, scanner, printer, calculator, phone (desk and cell). Daily use of software programs including Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, Word, Excel, and GPS.
• Physical Activities: Sits for long periods; light physical activity that may include walking, sitting, standing, stooping, bending, reaching, lifting, and carrying
• Lifting: Ability to lift, carry, and exert up to 25 pounds. Occasionally lifts, carries, and exerts up to 40 pounds
• Vision and Hearing: Must have visual acuity to see and read paper and electronic documents. Must be able to answer telephones, communicate conversation, and respond to verbal inquiries.
• Exposure to Environmental Conditions: The position generally works in an office setting with overhead lighting and long periods of screen time.

Reporting Relationships

• Reports to Position: Branch Manager and Assistant Branch Manager
• Supervises Positions: None

Work Location

• Stratford Branch Library - 509 Stratford, Highlands, TX 77562

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.