Part-Time Library Assistant (2 Openings) — Dover Free Public Library

Dover Free Public Library; Dover (NJ); On-site; USD 22,000 - 32,000; Part time

Job summary

Dover Free Public Library is seeking two part-time Library Assistants (up to 15 hours/week) to join a vibrant, multicultural community hub in Dover, NJ. The roles emphasize customer service, program support, bilingual communication, and helping patrons access resources.

You'll work evenings and weekends, handle check-ins/outs, shelving, and express a willingness to learn new systems as the library modernizes its services and expands cultural programming.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform alphabetical filing beyond the initial letter.
• Ability to perform numerical filing beyond the initial digit.
• Basic arithmetic skills.
• Strong communication skills — friendly, courteous, and clear.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
• Willingness to learn new electronic and manual systems.
• Physical ability to perform essential job functions (with or without reasonable accommodation).
• Availability to work evenings and participate in weekend rotation.

Responsibilities

• Check materials in and out and assist patrons with services.
• Help patrons discover library resources and programs.
• Assist Spanish- and English-speaking patrons with membership, holds, and locating materials.
• Maintain the collection using the Dewey Decimal System and ensure items are shelved properly.
• Contribute to programs and events including bilingual storytimes.
• Manage fines, overdue materials, and locate hard-to-find items.
• Repair and prepare materials for circulation and create displays.
• Learn and operate library systems as we modernize services.

Skills

Customer service

Communication skills

Bilingual Spanish/English

Team player

Willingness to learn new systems

Tools

Dewey Decimal System

Job description

Part-Time Library Assistant (2 Openings) — Dover Free Public Library

Join a library that's MORE than just books!

About Us

The Dover Free Public Library serves as a vibrant hub in one of Morris County's most culturally diverse communities. With 75% of our residents identifying as Hispanic and over half born outside the United States, we're not just a library — we're a connector, a trusted resource, and a catalyst for community engagement.

We're in the middle of implementing an exciting new strategic plan (2026–2030) focused on expanding cultural programming, strengthening multilingual services, and building deeper community connections. If you're passionate about making a difference where it truly counts, we want you on our team!

Who We're Looking For

We're hiring two self-motivated, community-focused Library Assistants who thrive in a dynamic, multicultural environment. You'll be someone who:

• Takes initiative and sees opportunities to help before being asked
• Genuinely enjoys connecting with people from all backgrounds
• Brings energy and enthusiasm to everyday tasks
• Embraces learning new systems and technologies
• Finds satisfaction in being part of something bigger than yourself

What You'll Do

As a Library Assistant, you'll be the friendly face patrons see when they walk through our doors. Your day might include:

• Connecting with Community: Check materials in and out, answer questions about our services, and help patrons discover resources they didn't know existed
• Supporting Diverse Needs: Assist Spanish- and English-speaking patrons with library membership, reserves, and finding materials
• Keeping Things Organized: Maintain our collection using the Dewey Decimal System, ensuring materials are properly shelved and accessible
• Contributing to Programs: Help prepare for cultural celebrations, bilingual storytimes, and community events
• Problem-Solving: Handle fines and fees, track overdue materials, and help locate hard-to-find items
• Hands-On Work: Repair and prepare materials for circulation, create displays, and maintain special collections
• Growing with Us: Learn various electronic and manual library systems as we continue modernizing our services

Schedule

We have two positions available, each up to 15 hours per week. Specific days and shifts will be set based on library need and your availability, and may be adjusted seasonally. Both positions require:

• Willingness to work evenings
• Participation in weekend rotation and coverage

We'll work with you to find a schedule that fits, but flexibility across evenings and weekends is an essential part of this role.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to perform alphabetical filing beyond the initial letter
• Ability to perform numerical filing beyond the initial digit
• Basic arithmetic skills
• Strong communication skills — friendly, courteous, and clear
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions
• Willingness to learn new electronic and manual systems
• Physical ability to perform essential job functions (with or without reasonable accommodation)
• Availability to work evenings and participate in weekend rotation

Highly Desired (But Not Required)

Bilingual skills in Spanish and English are strongly preferred and will significantly enhance your candidacy. We have a specific need for staff who can read, write, speak, understand, and communicate effectively in both languages.

Additional Information

• Valid NJ driver's license required only if vehicle operation is essential to the position
• This is a local government position
• Wage follows the NJLA Salary recommendations; this position starts at $19.73/hour, up to 15 hours per week
• Information about current programs and events at the library can be found at www.dfpl.org
• Equal opportunity employer — persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply

Additional Information

• Se requiere licencia de conducir válida de NJ solo si operar un vehículo es esencial para el puesto
• Este es un puesto de gobierno local
• El salario sigue las recomendaciones de la NJLA; este puesto comienza en $19.73/hora, hasta 15 horas por semana
• Información sobre programas y eventos actuales de la biblioteca en www.dfpl.org
• Empleador de igualdad de oportunidades — se anima a las personas con discapacidades a postularse

The Dover Free Public Library empowers all residents by providing equitable access to information, fostering cultural understanding, and serving as a hub for lifelong learning, community connection, and civic engagement.

The Dover Free Public Library is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

La Biblioteca Pública Gratuita de Dover es un empleador de igualdad de oportunidades. Celebramos la diversidad y estamos comprometidos a crear un ambiente inclusivo para todos los empleados.