YOUTH SERVICES ASSISTANT - Joplin Public Library

Youth Services Assistant – Joplin Public Library, Joplin, MO

POSITION AVAILABLE: Youth Services Assistant

SCHEDULE: Part-time position, non-exempt (20 hours per week). Available to work during normal Library hours, with nights and weekends required.

DEADLINE: Applications will be accepted until position is filled, but first consideration given to applications received by July 10, 2026

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: Under the supervision of the Youth Services Librarian, individuals in this position focus their efforts on staffing a public service desk, helping patrons locate materials and information, and conducting programs for all ages of Youth. In addition, they are responsible for providing readers’ advisory, enforcing library policy with compassion, and creating marketing material to promote library programs and services.

EDUCATION/REQUIREMENTS: Experience working with youth and conducting programs is preferred, but willing to train the right person. Requires two years of college or equivalent experience which allows the individual to easily undertake the position’s duties and responsibilities. Must enjoy working with the public, especially youth and families, and be able to maintain a cheerful demeanor while multitasking. Programming is a key component of this position, so successful candidates will exhibit passion and enthusiasm for conducting in-house and outreach library programs for youth.

BENEFITS: Benefits package includes a monthly accrual of sick and personal leave, a yearly accrual of two weeks vacation and ten paid holidays per year; health, dental, and vision insurance available at COBRA rates.

STARTING SALARY: Starting salary is $15.12/hr

Definition of work: This individual is part of a team that combines professional and clerical duties in providing reference and programming services to the public. This position will have a wide familiarity of all library procedures and policies and must have an ability to interpret these to the public.

Examples of work performed:

● Develops, plans and conducts programs for all age of youth with support from the Youth Services Librarian

● Assists patrons in finding information in person, on the telephone, and via email

● Cleans and maintains order in the Children’s and Teen areas

● Helps patrons locate materials in the collection

● Opens and closes the Children’s and Teen areas - some evening and weekend hours are required

● Conducts readers’ advisory interviews

● Assists patrons with the computers in the Children’s and Teen areas

● Creates marketing materials, brochures, and bookmarks

● Helps manage issues relating to Library policy compassionately and professionally

● Plans and conducts outreach programs with support from the Youth Services Librarian

● Instructs patrons in basic library use

● Checks, shelves and changes status of new children’s and teen books

● Performs other duties as assigned by the Youth Services Librarian

Requirements for position:

● Two years of college or equivalent experience

● Must be willing to present in-house and outreach library programs

● Must enjoy working with the public, especially youth and their parents

● Skills in application and interpretation of library policies and procedures

● Good communication and public relations skills

● Must be able to maintain a cheerful demeanor under pressure

● Demonstrates creativity, enthusiasm, flexibility, and a positive attitude

● High clerical aptitude

● Working knowledge of library automation system, basic computer programs and the Internet

● Comfort with and ability to utilize existing and emerging technology to reach community members outside of the library

● Wide knowledge of children’s and young adult literature and interest in a variety of subjects

APPLICATION: Applications are available at the library, 1901 E. 20th St., or download an application at www.joplinpubliclibrary.org/LibraryApp.pdf.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Christina Matekel-Gibson at (417) 623-7953 ext. x1038, or email cmatekel@joplinpubliclibrary.org

The Joplin Public Library is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Posted 06/29/2026

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $15.12 per hour

Expected hours: 20 per week

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $15.12 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15