Harris County, TX
Library Specialist I, Programming (Stratford Branch Library) Job at Harris Count
Harris County, TX, Houston, TX, US, 77246
Salary: $20.00 Hourly
Location : Highlands, TX
Job Type: Regular Full-time
Job Number: 15864
Department: Public Library
Opening Date: 11/13/2025
Closing Date: 12/14/2025 11:59 PM Central
Max Number of Applicants: 200
Position Description
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:
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
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.
Requirements
Education & Experience:
Preferences
Language:
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
HARRIS COUNTY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Harris County offers a highly competitive benefits program, featuring a comprehensive group health plan and defined benefit retirement plan.
The following benefits are offered only to Harris County employees in regular (full-time) positions:
Health & Wellness Benefits
* Participation may vary by County department. The employee benefits plans of Harris County are extended to all eligible participants across various departments with the exception of the Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department, for which the cited Health & Wellness Benefits are administered through the State of Texas.
In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, group health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Harris County Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.
For plan details, visit the Harris County Benefits & Wellness website:
01
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education completed as it relates to this position?
02
Have you completed a minimum of 60 hours of secondary education credits from an accredited college or university?
03
Which of the following best describes your verifiable program experience (e.g., activities for all ages)?
04
Which of the following closely aligns with your related children's program experience?(Select all that apply.)
05
Please provide details about your verifiable program experience (e.g., activities for all ages).*** Do not use "See Resume", as we do not use resumes to assess qualifications.***(To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your application's employment history)Include your (a) role(s), (b) types of organizations, (c) scope of duties and responsibilities.If you do not have this experience, please type "None" in the space provided.
06
Which of the following best describes your verifiable customer service experience?(To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your application's employment history)
07
Please provide details about your verifiable customer service experience.*** Do not use "See Resume", as we do not use resumes to assess qualifications.***(To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your application's employment history)Include your (a) role(s), (b) types of organizations, (c) scope of duties and responsibilities.If you do not have this experience, please type "None" in the space provided.
08
How would you rate your organization, written and oral communication skills?
09
Which of the following describes your level of proficiency using a personal computer and common office software such as MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook). Please select your level of proficiency based on the following descriptions:Advanced:A person with this level of skills is able to produce very large, complex formal documents that require a table of contents, footnotes, endnotes, bookmarks, and other special elements; a wide range of graphic effects, and use advanced techniques for analyzing and manipulating data. Has full mastery of Macro commands and skills to tie the objects together into a cohesive system by using Macros and Visual Basic for Applications code. Makes interactive presentations by using hyperlinks and action buttons.Intermediate:A person with this level of skills is able to customize toolbars, import and insert graphs, embed Excel data, and elaborate reports. Understands the concepts of databases and is able to work with charts and to use the list management capabilities of Excel. Able to use complex query techniques, create efficient forms and reports, and create Macros to automate these forms. Makes interactive presentations by using hyperlinks and action buttons.Basic:A person with this level of skills is able to use basic formatting, editing, printing functions, and understands the document page setup. Has the ability to enter and correct data, modify a workbook, format a worksheet, and use printing functions. Understands the different database concepts and structures and is familiar with data validation and is able to create a simple presentation in PowerPoint, run it, and print it.Entry Level:A person with this level of skills has the ability to open, create, save and modify documents in Word, send and receive email in Outlook and create spreadsheets in Excel. Format documents for printing, comfortable using the printer menu to preview documents. Has ability to change the font, the margins, insert or delete pages and use the built-in spellchecker and grammar check.
10
Which of the following language(s) are you bilingual and fluent?Select all that apply:
Required Question
Location : Highlands, TX
Job Type: Regular Full-time
Job Number: 15864
Department: Public Library
Opening Date: 11/13/2025
Closing Date: 12/14/2025 11:59 PM Central
Max Number of Applicants: 200
Position Description
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
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
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.
Requirements
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university
- One (1) year of program experience (e.g., activities for all ages)
- 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)
- High School Diploma or G.E.D. Equivalent
- Five (5) years of program experience (e.g., activities for all ages)
- One (1) year of customer service experience
- Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Proficient with Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.)
- Proficient with the Internet and Office 365
- Excellent communication skills (verbal and 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
- Ability to exercise initiative and act with discretion
- Must use your personal mobile device for our Multifactor Authentication process
Preferences
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.
- Paid Biweekly
- 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.
- Reports to Position: Branch Manager and Assistant Branch Manager
- Supervises Positions: None
- Stratford Branch Library - 509 Stratford, Highlands, TX 77562
HARRIS COUNTY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Harris County offers a highly competitive benefits program, featuring a comprehensive group health plan and defined benefit retirement plan.
The following benefits are offered only to Harris County employees in regular (full-time) positions:
Health & Wellness Benefits
- Medical Coverage
- Dental Coverage
- Vision Coverage
- Wellness Plan
- Life Insurance
- Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
- Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
- Ten (10) days of vacation leave per year (accrual rate increases after 5 years of service)
- Eleven (11) County-observed holidays
- One (1) floating holiday per year
- Paid Parental Leave*
- Sick Leave
- 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
- Professional learning & development opportunities
- Retirement pension (TCDRS defined benefit plan)
- Flexible work schedule*
- METRO RideSponsor Program*
* Participation may vary by County department. The employee benefits plans of Harris County are extended to all eligible participants across various departments with the exception of the Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department, for which the cited Health & Wellness Benefits are administered through the State of Texas.
In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, group health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Harris County Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.
For plan details, visit the Harris County Benefits & Wellness website:
01
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education completed as it relates to this position?
- High School or GED diploma
- Associate Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree or higher
- None of the above
02
Have you completed a minimum of 60 hours of secondary education credits from an accredited college or university?
- Yes
- No
03
Which of the following best describes your verifiable program experience (e.g., activities for all ages)?
- Less than one (1) year
- One (1) year or more but less than two (2) years
- Two (2) years or more but less than three (3) years
- Three (3) years or more but less than four (4) years
- Four (4) years or more but less than five (5) years
- Five (5) years or more
- I do not have this experience
04
Which of the following closely aligns with your related children's program experience?(Select all that apply.)
- Children's Services/Programs
- Community Outreach Initiatives
- Education/Training
- Library Services
- Child Development
- Other qualifying experience (Please explain below)
- None of the above
05
Please provide details about your verifiable program experience (e.g., activities for all ages).*** Do not use "See Resume", as we do not use resumes to assess qualifications.***(To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your application's employment history)Include your (a) role(s), (b) types of organizations, (c) scope of duties and responsibilities.If you do not have this experience, please type "None" in the space provided.
06
Which of the following best describes your verifiable customer service experience?(To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your application's employment history)
- Less than one (1) year
- One (1) year or more but less than two (2) years
- Two (2) years or more but less than three (3) years
- Three (3) or more years
- I do not have this experience
07
Please provide details about your verifiable customer service experience.*** Do not use "See Resume", as we do not use resumes to assess qualifications.***(To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your application's employment history)Include your (a) role(s), (b) types of organizations, (c) scope of duties and responsibilities.If you do not have this experience, please type "None" in the space provided.
08
How would you rate your organization, written and oral communication skills?
- High: Confident/Competent
- Medium: Some areas of strength
- Low: Limited skills
- I do not possess this skill and/or experience
09
Which of the following describes your level of proficiency using a personal computer and common office software such as MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook). Please select your level of proficiency based on the following descriptions:Advanced:A person with this level of skills is able to produce very large, complex formal documents that require a table of contents, footnotes, endnotes, bookmarks, and other special elements; a wide range of graphic effects, and use advanced techniques for analyzing and manipulating data. Has full mastery of Macro commands and skills to tie the objects together into a cohesive system by using Macros and Visual Basic for Applications code. Makes interactive presentations by using hyperlinks and action buttons.Intermediate:A person with this level of skills is able to customize toolbars, import and insert graphs, embed Excel data, and elaborate reports. Understands the concepts of databases and is able to work with charts and to use the list management capabilities of Excel. Able to use complex query techniques, create efficient forms and reports, and create Macros to automate these forms. Makes interactive presentations by using hyperlinks and action buttons.Basic:A person with this level of skills is able to use basic formatting, editing, printing functions, and understands the document page setup. Has the ability to enter and correct data, modify a workbook, format a worksheet, and use printing functions. Understands the different database concepts and structures and is familiar with data validation and is able to create a simple presentation in PowerPoint, run it, and print it.Entry Level:A person with this level of skills has the ability to open, create, save and modify documents in Word, send and receive email in Outlook and create spreadsheets in Excel. Format documents for printing, comfortable using the printer menu to preview documents. Has ability to change the font, the margins, insert or delete pages and use the built-in spellchecker and grammar check.
- Advanced
- Intermediate
- Basic
- Entry Level
- Not proficient
10
Which of the following language(s) are you bilingual and fluent?Select all that apply:
- English and Spanish
- English and Vietnamese
- English and Chinese
- English and Arabic
- English and Urdu
- English and Tagalog
- English and Other Language(s)
- None of the Above
Required Question