What are the responsibilities and job description for the Library Specialist I - Youth Programming (West University Branch Library) position at Harris County?
Position Description
Harris County Public Library (HCPL) - History:
The Harris County Public Library (HCPL) system, established in 1921, began as a collection of small libraries located in stores, post offices, and private homes. Over the years, it has grown into a robust network comprising 26 branch libraries, two technology service centers, and two partner locations that provide collection and circulation services. HCPL serves the communities of unincorporated Harris County and cities without independent library systems.
In 2024, HCPL received the prestigious National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest honor awarded to libraries in the United States. Bestowed annually by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), this award recognizes institutions that deliver exceptional service to their
communities. The library was recognized for 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. Its dedication to employee well-being, diversity, and community impact makes HCPL more than just a workplace—it’s where individuals can grow, inspire, and contribute to meaningful change.
What you will do at Harris County Public Library:
This position is responsible for creating programs for individuals 0-12 years of age. Provide customer service, reader’s advisory, and basic reference service. Exemplify the high standards and expectations for the library system in its daily operations and services.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide customer service, reader’s advisory, and basic reference service within and beyond our walls
- Develops and implements programs for the community
- Promote library services to all ages in the community
- Collaborate with the branch team to develop, implement, and market programs in the library and community, including summer reading programs, early literacy initiatives, family place, and other special events.
- Develop and maintain cooperative relationships with local schools and community organizations
- Develop an engaging and attractive library collection
- Attend staff meetings, activities, and professional conferences and actively serve on committees
- Other duties as assigned
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Requirements
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
- One (1) year of program experience (e.g., activities for all youth)
- One (1) year of customer service experience
- Associate degree in any field or 60 hours of secondary education credits from an accredited college or university
- Three (3) years of program experience (e.g., activities for all youth)
- One (1) year of customer service experience
- High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent
- Five (5) years of program experience (e.g., activities for all youth)
- One (1) year of customer service experience
- Available and reliable transportation for work-related duties
- Unofficial copies of transcripts are required along with the application
- Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Proficient with Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.)
- Proficient with the Internet and Office 365
- Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and foster teamwork in a diverse environment
- Ability to work well with public and staff members
- Ability to exercise initiative and act with discretion
- Must use your personal mobile device for our Multifactor Authentication process
NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
Preferences
Experience:
- Experience working with youth groups (preferred)
- Bilingual (preferred)
General Information
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
- Full-time | Regular
- Typical shifts are Day, Evening, Nights, Weekends, etc.
- May require attending meetings, council sessions, or after-hours events and off-site meetings.
- Paid Biweekly
Work Environment and Physical Demands:
- This job typically operates in a professional office environment with overhead lighting and long periods of screen time.
- Daily use of a computer, keyboard, copier, scanner, printer, calculator, phone (desk and cell).
- Daily use of software programs, including Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, Word, Excel, and GPS.
- At times, work may be performed in an outdoor environment and may have possible exposure to inclement weather or various temperature changes.
- Driving: Available and reliable transportation for work-related duties.
- Sitting for long periods; light physical activity that may include walking, standing, stooping, bending, reaching, lifting, and carrying.
- Ability to lift, carry, and exert up to 25 pounds. Occasionally lifts, carries, and exerts up to 40 pounds.
- Reports To Position: Branch Manager and Assistant Branch Manager - Youth
- Supervises Positions: None
Work Location:
- West University Branch Library – 6108 Auden, Houston, TX 77005
Employment is contingent upon passing a background check.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
HARRIS COUNTY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Harris County offers a highly competitive benefits program, featuring a comprehensive group health plan and defined benefit retirement plan.
The following benefits are offered only to Harris County employees in regular (full-time) positions:
Health & Wellness Benefits
- Medical Coverage
- Dental Coverage
- Vision Coverage
- Wellness Plan
- Life Insurance
- Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
- Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Ten (10) days of vacation leave per year (accrual rate increases after 5 years of service)
- Eleven (11) County-observed holidays
- One (1) floating holiday per year
- Paid Parental Leave*
- Sick Leave
Retirement Savings Benefit
- 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
The following benefits are available to Harris County employees in full-time and select part-time positions:
- Professional learning & development opportunities
- Retirement pension (TCDRS defined benefit plan)
- Flexible work schedule*
- METRO RideSponsor Program*
- Participation may vary by County department. The employee benefits plans of Harris County are extended to all eligible participants across various departments with the exception of the Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department, for which the cited Health & Wellness Benefits are administered through the State of Texas.
In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, group health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Harris County Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.
For plan details, visit the Harris County Benefits & Wellness website:
www.benefitsathctx.com
