Assistant Librarian (Programming)

City of Johnston•Johnston, IA

21h•$21 - $29

About The Position

Johnston Public Library is seeking a part-time Assistant Librarian assigned to Programming & Communications. The role primarily focuses on programming for toddlers and school-aged children (K–5), while also supporting service desks and community outreach. Assistant Librarians help with daily library operations and foster a welcoming, inclusive environment where people can connect, learn, and explore. They work under the direction of their assigned Library Manager and collaborate with staff to provide accessible, engaging services. The Programming & Communications assignment includes planning, coordinating, delivering, and evaluating library programs, outreach, and communications. Duties may include program logistics and promotion, displays and passive activities, maintaining the Interactive Learning Center, creating social media content, coordinating with community partners, and providing instruction. The position also provides scheduled and additional service desk coverage, assists patrons with library accounts, resources, technology, and information, and may serve as Librarian in Charge when assigned. The position has a variable schedule based on library needs, includes evening and weekend hours, and is limited to 29 hours per week. The application deadline is November 2, 2026.

Requirements

Associate degree or 60 credit hours of postsecondary education required; an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
One year of customer service experience required; an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
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.
Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.

Nice To Haves

Coursework in library science, education, communications, or a related field.
Experience in a library, educational, community, or customer service setting.

Responsibilities

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.
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.
Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.