Public Safety Aides at Bowie Branch Library

PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY MEMORIAL LIBRARY SYSTEM•Bowie, MD

3d•$20 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

PGCMLS is seeking two Public Safety Aides at Bowie Branch Library to help maintain a safe, welcoming, and respectful library environment, particularly while supporting up to 300 teens during busy after-school hours. The role provides a visible security presence, monitors the Library and surrounding areas, and addresses safety and behavior concerns calmly and professionally. Aides also assist customers, support library operations, document incidents, and help secure the building at the end of the day. The position is hourly with limited benefits. The posted schedule is Monday 2:30–6:00 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday 2:30–6:30 p.m., and Thursday and Friday 2:30–6:00 p.m. The job is located at the Bowie Branch in Bowie, Maryland.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Two years of experience working directly with teens and young adults, assessing their needs, developing services, and providing customer service in a public or community setting.
Comprehensive knowledge of teen developmental needs, group behavior management, and teen group dynamics, as well as teen services in public libraries, schools, community centers, or similar settings.
Strong communication and customer service skills.
Ability to remain calm, fair, and professional in challenging situations.
Commitment to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all customers and staff.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Proficiency with computers, standard office software, email, and security systems.
CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain certification.

Nice To Haves

Training in conflict resolution, restorative practices, and/or trauma-informed practices.
Experience in public safety, security, crisis response, or a related field.
Experience working with the public, preferably in a customer service or community setting.
Experience working with teens and youth.

Responsibilities

Maintain a professional, approachable, and visible presence throughout the Library.
Walk throughout the Library and surrounding grounds to monitor and interact with teens during after-school hours.
Communicate Library behavior policies and respond to safety concerns through verbal guidance and behavior redirection in accordance with established procedures.
Build positive relationships with customers and handle concerns and difficult interactions with patience, professionalism, and respect.
Identify potential conflicts or behavioral issues and intervene early using positive reinforcement and de-escalation techniques.
Monitor student use of the Teen Zone to promote safe equipment use, compliance with reservation guidelines, and avoidance of overcrowding.
Provide basic customer assistance, including directions to Library spaces, and refer customers to appropriate staff when needed.
Keep the Branch Manager or Person-In-Charge informed of unusual situations, safety concerns, and significant incidents.
Accurately document observations, actions taken, safety concerns, and behavior incidents in accordance with Library procedures, including incidents involving a customer being asked to leave or law enforcement.
Communicate and cooperate with police, fire, EMS, and other emergency responders attending incidents at the Library.
Sort and return Library materials to their appropriate shelves.
Assist with end-of-day procedures to help ensure the building is cleared and secure.
Participate in committees, planning activities, meetings, and training.
Represent and promote the Library while following applicable policies and procedures.
Support special projects and perform other assigned duties.