Librarian I (Central Library)

About the Role

The Houston Public Library (HPL) is seeking energetic, flexible, team-oriented individuals with a passion for customer service to work as a Librarian I at the Central Library. Successful candidates will demonstrate strong communication skills, deliver outstanding customer service, and exhibit a genuine interest in engaging with individuals of all ages and diverse backgrounds.

HPL is a forward-thinking library organization serving a diverse population of 2.2 million people in the nation’s fourth largest city. We link people to the world through educational, recreational, and cultural programs and services across Houston and the surrounding region via Neighborhood Libraries, a Central Library, and three History Research Centers.

Responsibilities

• Provide customer assistance to find information and library materials.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of electronic devices needed for library services and provide technology assistance, including troubleshooting and one-on-one sessions.
• Support library operations, including schedules and statistics.
• Serve as a back-up agent for Passport Services.
• Assist and promote library services and programs in the community.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Master of Library Science degree from a school accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). No experience is required.
• Alternatively, requires a Bachelor’s degree plus 18 hours toward a Master of Library Science degree from an ALA-accredited school and one year of library experience providing reference and programming. A Master’s of Library Science degree must be completed within two years of being hired.

Preferences

• Comfortable working with diverse populations.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to motivate, develop, train, and direct staff in a collaborative team environment.
• Knowledge of current trends in library services to youth and their caregivers.
• Experience using MS Office Suite and knowledge of electronic devices such as e-readers, tablets, and other technologies.
• Bilingual (Spanish and English) preferred.
• Preference given to eligible veteran applicants who meet the qualifications.

Working Conditions

• Occasional stooping or bending.
• Occasional very light lifting (up to 20 pounds, e.g., three or four reams of paper or books).
• Normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature, and air conditions.
• Requires coordinated gross motor movements or eye/hand coordination within low to moderate tolerances.

Schedule

Monday – Sunday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (rotating schedule, subject to change).

Pay

Pay Grade 16. Salary is determined based on candidate qualifications and pay rates of other employees in this classification.