senior library assistant, children's services

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DEPARTMENT:

Library

DATE POSTED:

November 24, 2025

CLOSING DATE:

December 08, 2025

HIRING RANGE:

$41,315 - $44,000

POSITION NUMBER:

JOB TYPE:

Full-Time, 37.5 hrs/week, Non-Exempt

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Performs difficult paraprofessional work assisting in the delivery of library services with the public library system. Performs related work as required.

Work is performed under the supervision of the Children's Services Manager.

The position is based at the Main Library, but the selected candidate may be asked to work at other library locations.

Typical Schedule:

Monday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Must be able to work a flexible schedule. This position includes one evening shift per week (Wednesday), every third Saturday, and every twelfth Sunday on a rotating basis.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Encourages the use of the library's resources through imaginative programs
• Plans and executes story times, special programs, and activities, both in-house and through outreach, using creative formats and techniques; participates in system-wide programs
• Promotes the library's collection through the use of displays, exhibits and book lists
• Provides guidance in the use of the collection to individuals and groups
• Assists with monitoring and answering LibAnswers/LibChat
• Acquaints juvenile borrowers with library resources, services and policies
• Explains the use of the Polaris ILS, internet, other electronic resources, and general reference tools
• Demonstrates good knowledge of books and authors, and of reader interests; offers effective reader advisory service or assistance to general and special populations as appropriate to position; recommends materials for addition or replacement
• Prepares bibliographies, book talks and other special tools to increase access to library resources
• Shares in the responsibility for coverage of the unit's information desk
• Assists as needed with sorting, shelf-reading, shifting, shelving and in maintaining general order throughout the unit.
• Performs other related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Thorough knowledge of children's literature
• Through knowledge of current library practices, principles, procedures, public library services and programs, especially in children's services
• General knowledge of reader interests and of books and authors
• General knowledge of the theory and objectives of a public library system
• Some knowledge of print and electronic reference sources
• Skill with library technology
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement services for children
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Ability to organize and maintain materials and reference files
• Ability to understand and interpret library rules, policies and procedures
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as part of a team
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with library employees and patrons
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs.
• Commitment to excellence in customer service

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited community college with study in library science or related specialty area and two years of experience in general library services or the related specialty area.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to communicate in Spanish is highly desired

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE:

Durham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Durham County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

BACKGROUND CHECK STATEMENT:

This position may be subject to a background check, which could include, but is not limited to, criminal history (employment-related and/or SBI fingerprint-based), credit history, motor vehicle records, educational verification, and checks of the sexual offender registry, depending on the specific requirements of the role. A conviction record does not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment consideration, unless otherwise required by applicable state law.