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The District of Columbia Public Library is seeking motivated, customer service‑oriented individuals for the Library Associate role. This paraprofessional position supports library operations and helps customers of all ages use library resources efficiently.
You will assist with technology tasks, help librarians with programs and outreach, shelve materials, and maintain a welcoming environment while adapting to flexible hours and a busy urban library system across 26 branches.
This position is within Public Services of the District of Columbia Public Library system and serves as a Library Associate (aka “LA”). The position is responsible for paraprofessional functions that support the efficient operation and best use of the libraries by customers of all ages.
The District of Columbia Public Library is seeking motivated, customer service-oriented individuals who are passionate about serving a diverse public, including ethnic, cultural and gender diversity including customers who may be experiencing social and economic challenges. You will find the Library Associate position very rewarding if you love serving others through enriching and informative programs and services.Must embrace a spirit of teamwork that yields excellent customer experience for all District of Columbia residents and visitors.
Provides direct customer service to library customers and assistance in using the library and its resources.
Assists library customers with routine technology use, such as printing, scanning, copying, emailing, formatting, downloading, and other basic computer tasks. Monitors status of systems and troubleshoots as needed.
Assists librarians in preparation, promotion, delivery, and evaluation of programs and outreach as needed.
Provides assistance to librarians in preparation, promotion, delivery, and evaluation of programs and outreach as needed.
Assists in collection movement and maintenance by shelving, shelf reading, and merchandising, pulling from lists, processing incoming and outgoing materials, and checking materials in and out, as needed. Maintains familiarity with DCPL’s physical and electronic collections and resources.
Assists in maintaining a welcoming and comfortable library environment.
Performs routine clerical/administrative functions.
Must have a bachelor’s degreefrom an accredited college or university.
Minimum of 1 year of direct, in-person customer service experience.
Experience using computers and related technology, including smartphones, tablets, cloud‑based software, and mobile applications in a work environment.
Ability to exercise independent judgment and tact in the application of policies, procedures, rules, or regulations in difficult or sensitive situations.
Ability to communicate effectively in person and in writing.
Ability toestablishand maintain effective working relationships
For current District of Columbia employee candidates only - Possess at least 1 year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level of a CS 7 OR 2 years of specialized experience at a CS 6 (non-probationary).
Experience working in urban public libraries
N/A
Work involves everyday risks or discomforts typically associated with libraries, offices, and meeting and training rooms, which are adequately heated, lighted, and ventilated.
All applicants who are current or former District of Columbia Government employees will be subject to a background examination prior to the issuance of a conditional offer of employment. This review will include coordination with District agencies where the applicant is currently or was previously employed. The purpose of this examination is to verify the applicant’s employment standing and determine eligibility for rehire, reassignment, or promotion within the district government. Applicants found not to be in good standing may be deemed ineligible for further consideration.
By applying to this vacancy announcement, you hereby authorize the District of Columbia Public Library to conduct a background examination and reference check, including coordination with any District agencies where you are currently or was previously employed, to verify your employment standing and assess your eligibility for continued employment consideration.
This position is subject to general suitability screening; verification of employment history, reference checks and degree/license, as applicable. The appointee to the position may be offered employment contingent upon receipt of a satisfactory general suitability screening.
The position for which the individual is applying has been identified and designated as requiring enhanced suitability screening; If tentatively selected for the position, a criminal background check, traffic record check, consumer credit check, and mandatory drug and alcohol test will be conducted (as appropriate); and the appointee to the position may be offered employment contingent upon receipt of a satisfactory enhanced suitability screening.
Type of Appointment:Career Service Regular Appointment
Tour of Duty/Schedule:This work will require availability outside of standard business hours and on weekends.
Reporting Location(s):Appointments will be assigned at one of our 26 branches across the DCPL system.
Appointed Salary -The selected incumbent will be appointedat the appropriate salary rateof a CS-08.
Budgeted Salary -This position is budgeted for a minimum salary of $58,305 to a maximum salary of $65,513.
We appreciate every applicant’s interest. However, only those who meet the qualifications and are considered by the hiring committee or interview panel will be contacted for the next steps in the recruitment process. Meeting the qualifications and/or passing the screening does not warrant an interview automatically.
Applicants claiming residency preference will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.
If the position you are applying for is in the Career, Management Supervisory, or Educational Service at an annual salary of one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) or more, you must establish residency in the District of Columbia within one hundred eighty (180) days of the effective date of the appointment and continue to maintain residency within the District of Columbia throughout the duration of the appointment.
Selectee will be eligible for health and life insurance, annual (vacation)