Careers

Public Services Specialist (Outreach)

Come be a part of the Library Community Services (Outreach) team by providing library materials and information to the public through bookmobile and delivery services.

This position assists in planning, operating, and presentation of the Kansas Connections program, and coordinates and implements community events. Provides library service to school age children at locations throughout Topeka and Shawnee County, including, but not limited to, the main library and area schools.

As the Community Services Public Services Specialist on the Outreach Team some of the things you will do are:

• Brainstorm, build, schedule, and present age-appropriate programs in a variety of formats at the main library, local organizations and in elementary classrooms.
• Plan and execute themed displays, compile information for bibliographies and programs.
• Assist patrons inquiring about services, periodicals, databases, files, interlibrary loans, and other information.
• Assemble and compute statistical information essential to department.
• Provide information and materials to the public including assistance in locating library materials, information and use of equipment.
• Safely operate library vehicles such as trucks, and vans as needed.
• File and perform data entry tasks that relate to the status of library materials such as files, restock shelves, process reserves, and circulate library materials.
• Maintain assigned collections and everything associated with that function.
• Assume responsibility during emergencies while programming or working within the department to ensure staff and patron safety and limit disruptions to service. Follow-up with administration and security as needed.
• Deliver materials to community partners and customer homes as needed.
• Recommend materials for collection development and maintain collections.
• Perform checkout duties at offsite locations when necessary.
• Assist with production of division and library-wide publicity as needed including social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, etc.), blogging and print publications as needed.
• Maintain prompt arrival and efficiently and dependably maintain scheduled hours.

Position Requirements/Preferences

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• A combination of customer service and/or post-secondary education to a total of three years is required.
• Valid driver’s license with insurable driving record.

Preferred:

• Three years of customer service experience.
• One year of experience working with groups of school aged children in a professional capacity.
• Multi-language fluency in English and at least one other language.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Required:

• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and strong service orientation.
• Good planning, analytical and organizational skills.
• Computer skills with Microsoft Office Suite software applications and Internet searching techniques.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work cooperatively with patrons, volunteers, community partners, colleagues, and supervisors.
• Ability to work with diverse populations.
• Ability to work independently or as a team member, be flexible and adapt to a fast-paced work environment.
• Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance.

Preferred:

• Knowledge of books and City/County streets.
• Knowledge of readers’ advisory and reference techniques.
• Excellent reference skills.
• Strong public service orientation.

SCHEDULE: 8am-5pm Monday-Friday. Approximately one to two evenings per month and approximately one Saturday per month is required.

PAY & BENEFITS: Starting hourly rate will be in the range of $17.80 to $22.25 per hour depending on experience and qualifications. Excellent benefits including health & dental insurance with pre-tax premiums, and a retirement plan (Kansas Public Employees Retirement System KPERS). Group life, disability coverage and accidental death benefits are also provided. Other optional benefits available at employee's expense include vision, life and cancer insurance and a deferred compensation plan.

Applications must be received by July 26, 2024.

Employment Application Supplemental Employment History