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DC Public Library is seeking a Library Associate (Floater) to support customer service and paraprofessional functions across the DCPL system. The position offers flexible hours and assignments across all 26 branches to meet coverage needs.
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree and at least one year of in-person customer service experience, plus comfort with basic tech tasks and operations. This role requires adaptability and strong communication skills.
THIS POSITION IS OPEN UNTIL FILLED WITH PERIODIC SCREENIGS BEING CONDUCTED
This position is within Public Services of the District of Columbia Public Library system and serves as a Library Associate (\"LA\" Floater). The position is responsible for paraprofessional functions that support the efficient operation and best use of the libraries by customers of all ages.
The Library Associate (Floater) is a part‑time, systemwide position designed to provide flexible staffing support based on the operational needs of the DC Public Library (DCPL). Unlike positions assigned to a specific library location, employees in this role may be required to work at any of DCPL's 26 library locations throughout the District of Columbia, with assignments varying based on coverage needs, programs, vacancies, absences, and other operational priorities.
This position requires a high degree of flexibility and adaptability. Work schedules and locations may vary from week to week and are determined based on the needs of the library system. The ability and willingness to report to different DCPL locations as assigned is an essential expectation of the Floater position.
Individuals considering this role should understand that flexibility is both work location and scheduling is a fundamental component of the position and necessary to support effective library operations across the DCPL system.
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 to establish and 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 Temporary Appointment (WAE)
Tour of Duty/Schedule:This work will require availability outside of standard business hours and on weekends.
Reporting Location(s):Appointments will be assigned to all of our 26 branches across the DCPL system on an as needed bases.
Division/Department: Public Services | Will provide coverage for all 26 branches across the DCPL system as needed.
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 $28.03 (CS-8 Step 2) to a maximum salary of $31.49 (CS-8 Step 6). Incumbents will be compensated at an hourly rate for hours worked.
IMPORTANT NOTE: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 hired in a temporary appointment (When Actually Employed \"WAE\") must serve in their capacity for a minimum of ninety (90) days of service prior to earning Safe and Sick Leave. Covered employees shall accrue paid leave on a prorated basis at a rate of (1) hour of paid leave per biweekly pay period not to exceed seven (7) days. An employee may begin to access the accrued paid leave after ninety (90) days of service with the District government.
The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer: all qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, or disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination, which is also prohibited. In addition, harassment based on any of the above-protected categories is prohibited.