Library Associate Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

THIS POSITION IS OPEN UNTIL FILLED WITH PERIODIC SCREENIGS BEING CONDUCTED
JOB SUMMARY
This position is within Public Services of the District of Columbia Public Library system and serves as a Library Associate (aka LA). The position is responsible for paraprofessional functions that support the efficient operation and best use of the libraries by customers of all ages.
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.
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF OF PUBLIC SERVICES
Chief T. Alston | Public Service Announcement
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• 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.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a bachelor's degree from 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).

Preferred

• Experience working in urban public libraries

LICENSURES AND CERTIFICATIONS
N/A
WORKING CONDITIONS/ENVIRONMENT
Work involves everyday risks or discomforts typically associated with libraries, offices, and meeting and training rooms, which are adequately heated, lighted, and ventilated.
DISTRICT REFERENCE CHECK
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.
GENERAL SUITABILITY SCREENING
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.
ENHANCED 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.
OTHER SIGNIFICANT FACTORS
Type of Appointment: Career Service Regular Appointment
Tour of Duty/Schedule: This work will require availability outside of standard business hours and on weekends.
Reporting Location(s): Appointments will be assigned at one of our 26 branches across the DCPL system.
Division/Department: Public Services
Collective Bargaining Unit: The position is covered under the collective bargaining unit, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 1808. For more information, please visit: Local 1808 | DC Public Library (Non-Facilities, Non-Safety) | District Council 20 .
Promotion Potential: None
Appointed Salary - The selected incumbent will be appointed at the appropriate salary rate of a CS-08.
Budgeted Salary - This position is budgeted for a minimum salary of $58,305 to a maximum salary of $65,513.
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.
RESID I ENCY REQUIREMENT
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.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
Selectee will be eligible for health and life insurance, annual (vacation) and sick leave, and will be covered under the District of Columbia government's retirement plan. However, if the selectee was previously employed in the District of Columbia government under an appointment for which he/she was eligible for Civil Service Retirement (CSR), contributions to CSR will resume upon re-employment.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
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.