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Mid Continent Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mid Continent Library information

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$8

$15

$29

How much do mid continent library jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for mid continent library in the United States is $15.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.78 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of collaboration can staff expect when working at Mid-Continent Public Library?

Teamwork is an essential part of working at Mid-Continent Public Library. Staff members frequently collaborate with colleagues across departments, such as programming, outreach, and circulation, to deliver excellent service and develop community initiatives. Regular staff meetings, cross-training, and project-based teams provide opportunities to share ideas and support one another. This collaborative environment helps foster professional growth and ensures that library services remain innovative and responsive to community needs.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian can be competitive, often requiring a master's degree in library science and relevant experience. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with library management systems, and good communication are also important for securing a position.

How much does Mid Continent library pay?

Salaries for positions at Mid Continent Library vary depending on the role, experience, and location. Entry-level library assistants typically earn around $10 to $15 per hour, while more experienced staff or specialized roles can earn higher wages. Benefits such as paid time off and retirement plans are often included for full-time employees.

Can you get a job in a library without being a librarian?

Yes, many library jobs do not require a librarian certification and include roles such as library assistants, clerks, or technicians. These positions often involve tasks like shelving, customer service, and administrative support, and may require basic computer skills and a high school diploma or equivalent.

What is the difference between Mid Continent Library vs Public Library Assistant?

AspectMid Continent LibraryPublic Library Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some positions may require library certificationsHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentPublic library setting, customer service, shelving, assisting patronsPublic library setting, customer service, clerical tasks, assisting visitors
Employer & Industry UsagePublic library systems, community service organizationsPublic libraries, educational institutions, community centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Mid Continent Library and Public Library Assistant roles both serve in public library environments, focusing on customer service and administrative tasks. While they share similar credentials and work settings, the Mid Continent Library may have specific regional or organizational differences. Both positions are essential for supporting library operations and community engagement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Assistant at Mid-Continent Public Library, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Assistant at Mid-Continent Public Library, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with library catalog systems, databases, and basic computer applications is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help you assist patrons and support library operations. These skills ensure efficient library services, positive patron experiences, and smooth daily workflows.

What is a Mid Continent Library?

Mid-Continent Public Library is a large public library system serving the Kansas City metropolitan area in Missouri. It provides access to books, digital resources, community programs, research assistance, and educational events for people of all ages. The library system operates dozens of branches and offers services like free Wi-Fi, computer access, meeting rooms, and outreach programs to support lifelong learning and community engagement.

What is the highest paying library job?

The highest paying library job is typically a Library Director or Chief Librarian, who oversees library operations and strategic planning. These roles often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and they can earn salaries significantly higher than other library positions such as librarians or library assistants.
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What cities are hiring for Mid Continent Library jobs? Cities with the most Mid Continent Library job openings:
What job categories do people searching Mid Continent Library jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mid Continent Library jobs are:
Infographic showing various Mid Continent Library job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 61% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 12% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,732 per year, or $15.7 per hour.
Story Center Associate

Story Center Associate

Mid-Continent Public Library

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$18.11/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Mid-Continent Public Library rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description



At Mid-Continent Public Library, we:

Imagine. We inspire innovation through curiosity and exploration.

Try new things. We empower what works and learn from the rest.

Lead the way. We connect people to information, ideas, and inspiration.

Welcome all. We embrace new perspectives and listen with humility.

Everything we do, we do together.


Schedule: Some evenings and weekends required.

Position Overview

The Story Center Associate helps to deliver core Story Center services and resources by hosting public programs, printing publications on the Espresso Book Machine, and orienting customers to Story Center resources, including the special collection, among other duties. The person is passionate about providing excellent service to all customers and about The Story Center's mission to empower library customers to create stories, share those stories, and connect with the stories of others.

Page Break

Essential Functions

  • Supports operations and functions of Story Center by staffing the main desk in historic Woodneath home, reserving rooms, leading tours, and opening and closing the building
  • Implements core Story Center services, including public programs and printing
    • Hosts virtual, in-person, and hybrid Story Center programs
    • Communicates with presenter and registrants; prepares program space
    • Monitors and regulates program environment
    • Distributes, collects, and records program evaluations and attendance
    • Operates Espresso Book Machine
  • Recommends and orients internal and external customers to and promotes Story Center resources, including programs, publications, special collection, and digital resources
  • Provides support for the Director, Publication Manager, and Program Manager


Non-Essential Functions

  • None

Education and Experience


  • High School Diploma/HiSet/GED completion required
  • Customer Service experience required


Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

All successful team members at MCPL should demonstrate:


  • Ability to use effective verbal, written, and discreet communication with management, co-workers, and the public.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Knowledge of department processes and procedures and critical thinking skills to make decisions pertaining to the position.
  • Proficiency in providing friendly and solution-oriented customer service attitude and delivery with internal and external customers.
  • Fundamental understanding of their own contribution to a welcoming and respectful workplace and library for all.
  • Sufficient understanding of the MCPL value of intellectual freedom in order to uphold those values while performing their job duties.
  • Strong ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.
  • Reliable, punctual, and flexible with scheduling.
  • Good communication skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing needs.


Age Requirement

  • Must be at least 18 years of age

MVR Requirement

  • None

Work Environment

  • (Indoor) Works primarily indoors with prolonged periods of sitting at a desk, working on a computer, and must have a reasonable tolerance for dust, mold, scents, allergens, and communicable diseases which enables the employee to handle library materials, work in older buildings and interact with coworkers and the public.

Essential physical abilities to be accomplished with or without reasonable accommodation are:

Daily (greater than 50% of the time)

  • Walking (even ground)
  • Lifting 1-10 pounds
  • Sitting
  • Bending/Stooping
  • Kneeling
  • Receiving Communication and Instructions (vision, reading, hearing)
  • Conveying Communication and Instructions (Speaking, writing)
  • Using computer data entry tools - keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, scanner

Frequently (up to 50% of the time)

  • Reaching above the shoulder

Occasionally (approximately 1-2 times per month)

  • Standing (up to 1 hour at a time)
  • Walking (variable surfaces)
  • Lifting 11-25 pounds
  • Pushing/Pulling 1-10 pounds
  • Pushing/Pulling 11-25 pounds

Rarely (1-5 times per year)

  • Standing (more than 1 hour at a time)
  • Lifting 26-40 pounds
  • Pushing/Pulling 26-40 pounds
  • Climbing stepstools
  • Climbing ladders

"This is a Bargaining Unit Position with CWA 6360"


NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.


All applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected class in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Any applicant requiring an accommodation should contact the Mid-Continent Public Library Human Resources Department at 816.836.5200.

Applicants will be considered for employment opportunities on the merits of their skills and experience related to the position sought. Employment offers are conditional upon submitting a criminal records check, identity verification, and national sex offender registry check. Applicants will not be denied employment solely or in part because of a prior conviction, unless MCPL determines the conviction is job-related. If a background check yields information that is of concern to MCPL, the applicant will be given an opportunity to review the background check findings and present information regarding inaccuracy, mitigating circumstances, and rehabilitation.


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