Entry Level Library Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Description

You belong to a team of extraordinary people who make the magic happen behind the scenes. You are a vital member of the Processing Department and HCLS depends on you to accurately prepare new materials for our shelves. You contribute to the team effort and are capable and efficient in your work. You welcome new and exciting challenges. You make us shine.

You embrace and maintain an environment of inclusion, diversity, and respect for your coworkers and customers. Whether working directly with customers or behind the scenes, our remarkable team is committed to education that aids in the dismantling of unjust systems and creating a more equitable and just society for all people. As such, we work to ensure that this mission achieves our racial and social equity goals in all that we do.

We are seeking a highly motivated entry-level Processing and Inter-library Loan Specialist to join our team! Candidates from traditionally underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply! collaborative work environment and a generous benefits package including 15 paid holidays and your birthday off. Interested in joining our team?

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• You process all new materials in various formats
• You accurately enter detailed data into computer system
• You create detailed labels, pack items into boxes, and log boxes for pickup
• You receive new items in the computer system and generate workslips
• You check in items for existing branches using the Polaris system
• You reserve holds and route to appropriate branches
• You delete materials from the database and dispose of obsolete/worn materials
• You accept and scan deliveries of materials for Administrative Branch 
• You unpack boxes of new materials and verify that items received match packing slip
• You monitor supply needs and order replacement inventory
• You prepare daily statistics for supervisor according to standard process
• You process Marina requests via the Relais and OCLC software (ILL materials)
• You search OCLC database to place customer requests
• You print and prepare HCLS notices for mailing
• You handle customer and staff ILL queries
• You unpack and distribute BCPL and HCLS deliveries
• You grow professionally by participating in professional training
• You step up when needed to perform other duties and special projects as assigned
• You can be depended upon to maintain regular and predictable attendance
• You take pride in adhering to all policies and procedures

We are guided by these shared responsibilities:

Mission & Vision

• We are your place to learn, connect, and grow
• We contribute to achieving HCLS' racial and social equity goals. Please view the Brave Voices, Brave Choices initiative.
• We advance HCLS' educational mission, effectively communicating our curriculum, which comprises Three Pillars (Self-Directed Education, Research Assistance & Instruction, Instructive & Enlightening Experiences)

Requirements

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS

• High school diploma, college preferred
• People skills - ability to work effectively with others and enjoy it
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective, collaborative working relationships
• Great attention to detail
• Ability to work quickly and accurately
• Experience with Polaris is preferred
• Professional experience moving and unpacking boxes quickly and accurately is preferred
• Demonstrated ability to understand and retain detailed instructions
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks efficiently and effectively
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and clearly, both orally and in writing
• Current valid driver's license

Your job at the library will be active:

• Job allows for variance in work routine and considerable amounts of standing, walking, bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and sitting
• Job requires sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, pulling, pushing, and driving. In addition, strenuous activity is required, such as lifting cartons of books or moving heavy furniture, equipment, and packages, while using appropriate equipment to assist, such as a hand truck.

Additional Details:

• Grade 2; Salary range $34,557-$60,596/annually
• Position located at the Administrative Branch
• Works under the supervision of the Processing Supervisor
• Full-time; 37.5 hours/week; Monday through Friday
• Position closes 4:00 PM on Wednesday, June 17, 2026

EEOC Statement

Howard County's diversity is its greatest asset. Howard County Library System embraces its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic character. All communities, including communities of color and immigrant communities, are fundamental to our spirit of service, workforce and long-term success. Equity and empowerment are top priorities. We believe all Howard County residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress. Among our goals is for our workforce to reflect the community it serves. We are actively working to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and/or multicultural skill sets and experiences. Howard County Library System takes pride in providing equal employment opportunities.