Library Specialist I - Youth Programming (West University Branch Library)

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 programs for individuals 0-12 years of age. Provide customer service, reader’s advisory, and basic reference service. Exemplify the high standards and expectations for the library system in its daily operations and services.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Provide customer service, reader’s advisory, and basic reference service within and beyond our walls

• Develops and implements programs for the community

• 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, including summer reading programs, early literacy initiatives, family place, and other special events.

• Develop and maintain cooperative relationships with local schools and community organizations

• Develop an engaging and attractive library collection

• Attend staff meetings, activities, and professional conferences and actively serve on committees

• Other duties as assigned

Education & Experience:

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

• Associate 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 youth) 
• One (1) year of customer service experience 

• High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent
• Five (5) years of program experience (e.g., activities for all youth) 
• One (1) year of customer service experience

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

• 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

Experience:

• Experience working with youth groups (preferred)

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:

• Full-time | Regular
• Typical shifts are Day, Evening, Nights, Weekends, etc.
• May require attending meetings, council sessions, or after-hours events and off-site meetings. 

• Paid Biweekly

• This job typically operates in a professional office environment with overhead lighting and long periods of screen time.
• 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.
• At times, work may be performed in an outdoor environment and may have possible exposure to inclement weather or various temperature changes.
• Driving: Available and reliable transportation for work-related duties. 
• Sitting for long periods; light physical activity that may include walking, standing, stooping, bending, reaching, lifting, and carrying.
• Ability to lift, carry, and exert up to 25 pounds. Occasionally lifts, carries, and exerts up to 40 pounds. 

• Reports To Position: Branch Manager and Assistant Branch Manager - Youth
• Supervises Positions: None 

Work Location:

• West University Branch Library – 6108 Auden, Houston, TX 77005