Assistant Librarian (Programming)

The deadline for applications for this position is November 2, 2026.This is a part- time less than 29 hours per week position and requires evening and weekend hours.

Love creating fun, engaging experiences for kids? Johnston Public Library is looking for a Programming Assistant Librarian who enjoys bringing ideas to life, connecting with families, and making the library a place kids are excited to visit. This part-time position focuses primarily on programming for toddlers and school-aged children (K–5), while also helping patrons at our service desks and supporting outreach in the community. If you're creative, welcoming, and enjoy making things happen, we'd love to hear from you!

This is a part-time position scheduled for 29 hours per week, including evening and weekend hours.

Summary

Assistant Librarians support daily library operations and help create a welcoming, inclusive environment where people can connect, learn, and explore. Working under the direction of their assigned Library Manager, they carry out departmental responsibilities, respond to community needs, and collaborate with staff to provide accessible, engaging library services.

Assistant Librarians may be assigned to Programming & Communications, Customer Services, or Collection & Technical Services. Responsibilities vary by assignment and may include customer service, programming, outreach, collection development, materials processing, and other library operations. Service desk coverage and Librarian in Charge assignments depend on departmental needs and individual assignments.

This is a part-time position with a variable schedule based on library needs, including evenings and weekends, as assigned, not to exceed 29 hours per week.

Essential Duties

Assistant Librarians are expected to:

• Provide friendly, helpful, and respectful service to patrons and staff.

• Help maintain a welcoming and accessible library environment.

• Carry out assigned departmental responsibilities accurately and efficiently.

• Communicate and collaborate effectively with Library Managers and staff.

• Listen to patron and staff needs and respond with empathy and sound judgment.

• Apply library policies and procedures consistently and address concerns appropriately.

• Recognize situations requiring additional assistance and refer or escalate them as needed.

• Maintain records, statistics, and documentation as assigned.

• Contribute ideas to improve library services and operations.

• Participate in required training and professional development.

Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Assistant Librarians assigned to Programming & Communications plan, coordinate, deliver, and evaluate library programs, outreach, and communications based on their assigned responsibilities. Duties may include:

• Plan and facilitate programs based on community interests, library priorities, and available resources.

• Coordinate program logistics, including registration, supplies, room setup, technology, and presenters.

• Develop promotional materials for library programs, services, and resources.

• Create and maintain library displays and passive activities that encourage discovery.

• Develop and maintain the Interactive Learning Center to encourage imaginative, self-directed play.

• Create and schedule social media content to share library news, resources, and activities.

• Coordinate outreach with community partners and organizations.

• Provide instruction on digital literacy, library resources, and other topics as needed.

• Evaluate programs using attendance, feedback, and other available information.

• Provide scheduled service desk coverage and additional coverage as needed.

• Assist patrons with accounts, borrowing, library resources, technology, and general information.

• Provide readers' advisory and resource assistance.

• Help resolve patron concerns and service issues while applying library policies consistently.

Serve as Librarian in Charge when assigned, responding to patron concerns, building or technology issues, emergencies, and other situations requiring staff guidance.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to respond to patron and staff needs with empathy and sound judgment.

• Ability to communicate effectively with patrons, staff, and community partners.

• Ability to organize work, manage priorities, and maintain attention to detail.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with library staff.

• Ability to take initiative, coordinate assigned library activities, and provide guidance and support to other staff as needed.

• Ability to identify problems, evaluate options, and recommend appropriate solutions.

• Ability to use technology and learn new tools and systems.

• Knowledge of library policies and procedures and ability to apply them consistently.

• Ability to remain calm and respond appropriately in emergencies or unusual situations.