Full Time Outreach Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Description Harris County Public Library (HCPL) - History The Harris County Public Library (HCPL) system, established in 1921, began as a collection of small libraries located in stores, post offices, and private homes. Over the years, it has grown into a robust network comprising 26 branch libraries, two technology service centers, and two partner locations that provide collection and circulation services. HCPL serves the communities of unincorporated Harris County and cities without independent library systems.

In 2024, HCPL received the prestigious National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest honor awarded to libraries in the United States. Bestowed annually by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), this award recognizes institutions that deliver exceptional service to their communities. The library was recognized for innovative initiatives like HCPL Connected, Enhanced+ Library Cards, and its Mobile Outreach Librarian program.

HCPL is also recognized as one of the best places to work, offering a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Its dedication to employee well-being, diversity, and community impact makes HCPL more than just a workplace-it's where individuals can grow, inspire, and contribute to meaningful change. What you will do at Harris County Public Library: Provides library outreach services, programs, and resources primarily outside library walls at partner facilities and community locations throughout Harris County.

Develops, promotes, implements, and evaluates all-age library programs, outreach services, and special events. Identifies community needs; supports remote collections, provides reference, reader's advisory, and circulation assistance; and maintains strong partnerships as a vital part of HCPL's Programs, Partnerships, and Outreach Division. Duties & Responsibilities: Develops, facilitates, and delivers off-site library programs and services at community centers, residential facilities, partner sites, and other community locations throughout Harris County Plans, coordinates, promotes, implements, and evaluates all-age library programs, outreach services, summer reading activities, and special events Identifies community information needs and develops programs, services, and resources to meet those needs Builds and maintains cooperative relationships with schools, youth organizations, residential facilities, community centers, local organizations, and other community partners Attends outreach events to promote HCPL services, programs, and resources to Harris County community members, partners, and stakeholders Delivers in-person and virtual presentations to community partners, local organizations, and the public to promote library services, programs, and resources Curates, maintains, and supports remote collections, displays, and library materials at partner facilities, including providing circulation assistance as needed Provides reader's advisory, reference assistance, and general library service support to patrons in off-site and outreach settings Collects photographs, videos, and other new content assets at outreach events and programs in accordance with established procedures Reviews and evaluates existing programs and services; recommends improvements to procedures, service delivery, and program effectiveness Evaluates and applies knowledge of current library trends, community engagement practices, and all-age programming to improve outreach services and programs Attends staff meetings, trainings, activities, professional conferences, and related events; actively participates in committees and workgroups Performs other duties as assigned Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net This position is subject to a criminal history check

Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate. Requirements All applicants must register and take the HRT Clerical Skills Test and score a minimum of 80% with a typing speed of 30 wpm and 80% accuracy. https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/harriscountytx/jobs/998426-0/hrt-clerical-skills-test Please see testing instructions in the General Information section below

Education & Experience: Master Degree in Library Science from an accredited university or college Consideration will be given to individuals currently pursuing a master's degree in Library Science and will be completing the degree within the next four (4) months Proof of completion of the degree will be required for permanent status in the position One (1) year of full-time public library experience One (1) year of full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups OR Bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited college or university Two (2) years of full-time public library experience Two (2) years of full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups OR Associate's degree in any field or 60 hours of secondary education credits from an accredited college or university Four (4) years of full-time public library experience Four (4) years of full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups OR High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent Six (6) years of full-time public library experience Six (6) years of full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups Additional Requirements: Reliable transportation with a valid state of Texas driver's license and auto liability insurance. Candidates must complete a clerical skills test and achieve a minimum typing speed of 80% aptitude, 30 WPM with at least 80% accuracy Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Knowledge of public library principles, practices, terminology, resources, and the theory and philosophy of librarianship Skill in verbal and written communication, including in-person and virtual presentations, reports, patron assistance, and partner communications Skill in providing exceptional customer service through empathy, clear communication, problem-solving, and professional interaction with diverse patrons, staff, and partners Skill in planning, promoting, delivering, and evaluating engaging programs and services for all ages, including structured computer classes, technology Q&A sessions, book clubs, ESL, children's story times, children's crafts, literacy, cultural, recreational, and outreach activities Skill in building partnerships, delivering in-person and virtual presentations, preparing reports, and maintaining statistical records Ability to identify community needs and develop responsive programs, services, collections, and resources Ability to work independently and collaboratively, manage multiple priorities, exercise initiative and discretion, and foster teamwork in a diverse environment Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), Office 365, Internet resources, library systems, digital tools, social media platforms Ability to use a personal mobile device for required multifactor authentication processes NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application

You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications. Preferences Experience: Experience working with one or more age groups (preferred) Language: Bilingual (preferred) General Information Register Online for the HRT Clerical Skills Test using the following link: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/harriscountytx/jobs/998426-0/hrt-clerical-skills-test Click the above link to the HRRM Clerical Skills Test registration page Click on "Apply" to submit your request for testing You will receive a test invitation and instructions via e-mail within 48 hours You will have no more than 5 calendar days to access and complete testing Your score will be automatically uploaded to your application The test may be taken once every 30 days Most recent test scores are retained for up to 6 months Position Type and Typical Hours of Work: Position generally scheduled Monday-Friday, with attendance at weekend and evening events regularly required

Possible work in an outdoor environment with exposure to inclement weather or various temperature changes. Salary: $24.91 Per Hour Paid Biweekly Work Environment and Physical Demands: This job typically operates in a professional office environment with overhead lighting and long periods of screen time. Daily use of a computer, keyboard, copier, scanner, printer, calculator, phone (desk and cell)

Daily use of software programs including Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, Word, Excel, and GPS. At times, work may be performed in an outdoor environment and may have possible exposure to inclement weather or various temperature changes. Driving: Available and reliable transportation for work-related duties.

Sitting for long periods; light physical activity that may include walking, standing, stooping, bending, reaching, lifting, and carrying. Ability to lift, carry, and exert up to 25 pounds. Occasionally lifts, carries, and exerts up to 40 pounds.

Reporting Relationships: Reports To Position: Manager IV - Outreach Services Supervises Positions: None Work Location: HCPL Administrative Office - 5749 South Loop East, Houston, TX 77033 Employment is contingent upon passing a background check. Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.