This part-time position supports the Grand Rapids History Center by providing reference information, guidance, and assistance to GRPL patrons. The main function of this position is direct public service, and involves helping patrons access library resources in-person, over the phone, and via email.
This particular position has an emphasis on working with specialized resources related to local history, archives, and genealogy. Applicants should be able to demonstrate experience working in one of these areas. The position requires the ability to organize complex materials and information, and a proficiency with digital technology.
This position is regularly scheduled to work at the Main Library with the following schedule:
Examples of work:

• Provides engaging, professional public service to library patrons in-person, over the phone, and via email; assists with public workstation and printer use; assists patrons with periodical, book, and database searches and other reference sources; assists with reader's advisory; assists with interlibrary loan; assists with books-on-hold service
• Process and arrange archival material and create finding aids in archival software
• Creates and edits metadata for digital content according to established standards
• Provides instruction and/or presents to patrons in groups or individually; assists with planning and implementation of programs and services
• Assists staff with research, reporting, projects, and idea generation; may proofread and edit reports or other library materials
• Creates and maintains book displays and exhibits
• Represents GRPL at community events and outreach opportunities
• Develops bibliographies, pathfinders, and finding aids in support of Readers' Advisory and reference services
• Collects, compiles, and reports statistics related to library resources and programs
• Maintains records, correspondence, inventories, and other general office functions
• Recommends and evaluates reference books; maintains inventories; checks bibliographies against holdings, processes old and used books; may recommend purchase of books for library system
• May be assigned to assist in different departments and branches as necessary
• Performs other tasks of a similar nature as assigned

• High school diploma or a GED is required; a college degree is preferred.
• Previous public library experience is preferred; background in history, genealogy, museum, and/or archival work preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish is preferred.

• Ability to
  • Provide professional, friendly service to library staff and patrons; ability to make independent, reliable decisions related to customer service functions
  • Assist and instruct patrons around hardware and software issues as they relate to library resources and public workstations
  • Solve research problems and provide reader's advisory service; knowledge of community, books, and authors; knowledge of digital resources, reading devices and platforms; ability to learn and apply modern library methods and techniques and to acquire familiarity with the GRPL system and services offered
  • Communicate professionally with diverse groups both verbally and in writing
  • Establish and maintain working relationships with other staff and the general public; ability to work collaboratively
  • Work without close supervision
  • Understand systems and maintain an organized and effective work process; flexibility to adapt to changes as processes are updated
  • Maintain library records and prepare reports
  • Work with supervisor and process feedback regarding job performance
  • Work 20-24 hours per week; ability to work evenings and weekends

Please note the following:

• A cover letter is required
  • Please attach a cover letter in pdf format that describes your interest in the position, your interest in working at GRPL, and how these might tie in with personal or professional goals
• All communication regarding this position will be done via email; it is your responsibility to ensure that your email address is up-to-date on your account profile

Please visit the library's jobs page for a list of other open positions at Grand Rapids Public Library.
All inquiries related to this posting should be directed to:GRPL proudly promotes diversity and inclusion in employment, and strives to maintain a workplace culture where respect and positive recognition of differences are cultivated.
Grand Rapids Public Library provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination of any type without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, height, weight, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. GRPL will make reasonable accommodations for employees and job applicants with disabilities.
This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruiting, hiring, transfer, training, promotion, discipline, termination, leaves of absence, compensation, and benefits, as well as work-related events and activities.