Librarian - Mobile Outreach (Administrative Office)

Harris County • Houston, TX

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Harris County Public Library (HCPL) system, established in 1921, has grown into a robust network of 26 branch libraries, two technology service centers, and two partner locations. HCPL serves the communities of unincorporated Harris County and cities without independent library systems. In 2024, HCPL received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, recognizing 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. This role provides library outreach services, programs, and resources primarily outside library walls at partner facilities and community locations throughout Harris County. The position develops, promotes, implements, and evaluates all-age library programs, outreach services, and special events. It 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.

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.
• 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
• 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
• 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 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

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with one or more age groups (preferred)
• Bilingual (preferred)

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

Benefits

• Supportive and inclusive environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and professional growth
• Dedication to employee well-being, diversity, and community impact

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level