Library Substitute

This call-out position is a chance to be at the heart of the library’s daily rhythm by supporting circulation, reference, collection development, programming, and outreach that connects people to knowledge and one another. Whether assisting patrons with public computers, curating meaningful resources, or helping bring special events to life, you’ll contribute across departments to create a welcoming, inclusive space where learning and community thrive.

As a trusted and responsible public service team member, you’ll provide research support, reader’s advisory, and program coordination while building strong, collaborative relationships with library staff and supervisors. Guided by a Librarian or Supervisor, your work will help ensure every visitor feels seen, supported, and inspired. If you believe in the power of libraries to uplift and unite, we invite you to bring your curiosity, care, and commitment to our team.

Examples of Essential Work (Illustrative Only)

• Friendly and professional interactions with library users, as well as colleagues and others.  
• Follows direction; Performs all duties and work assignments in compliance with project quality requirements.
• Conducts circulation activity, entering data into computer, searching and checking customer files, including registering new patrons.
• Answers phones and provides assistance to callers.
• Checks library materials in and out using the library’s automated library system.
• Performs miscellaneous material collection related duties within context of department needs.
• Provides assistance to public, helping gain access to printed, online and other information; directs public to other useful resources.
• Performs all duties and work assignments in a safe, healthy, and environmentally sound manner. Specifically, complies with the Health & Safety Program; maintains work area in a safe and orderly manner; identifies and reports unsafe conditions; reports all accidents; wears required personal protective equipment; and attends safety-related meetings, training sessions, fit testing, etc.
• Acts responsibly and ethically, and in conformance with generally accepted business, occupational, and professional standards.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• A proactive public service initiative with strong communication and interaction skills:  ability to interact with people of all ages in a courteous and professional manner.  
• Exhibits flexibility and possesses a high degree of patience and tolerance.
• Knowledge, interest and appreciation of literature and other sources of information available at and through the library.
• Ability to assist in organizing activities and to perform routine tasks.
• Ability to use computers and perform data entry.

Acceptable Experience and Training 

• High School diploma or equivalent preferred, college level studies, computer training and/or library experience desirable.
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Required Special Qualifications 

• Must possess a current Montana Driver’s license or have the ability to obtain one within a reasonable period of time after employment.

• Must be a resident of Butte-Silver Bow during employment according to Butte-Silver Bow Ordinance 2.08.010:    

“2.08.010 Residence during employment. From and after October 1, 1979, all employees of the local government of Butte-Silver Bow shall be bona fide residents within the boundaries of Butte-Silver Bow during the period of their employment by the government of Butte-Silver Bow.  (Ord. 85 § 1, 1979)”

Essential Physical Abilities                                                                     

• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to communicate well with employees, other library staff, and the general public.
• Sufficient vision, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to review a wide variety of written reports and other materials in both hardcopy and electronic form.
• Sufficient manual dexterity, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to operate a computer keyboard and process library materials.
• Sufficient personal mobility, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to locate and retrieve library materials.

The City-County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical disability, or veteran status. 

This description is a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities.  Tasks and duties of the employee may differ from those outlined above.