Jobs at APL

Occasionally the Allentown Public Library seeks reliable, responsible, and motivated people to add to its staff.

If you are interested in applying for a position you will need to provide a cover letter, resume, and references. Any potential employee must receive a clean background check before being offered a position.

How to Apply to an open position

You can apply in writing or via Email.

Writing:

Allentown Public Library
Job #/Job Title
1210 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18102

Please include the JOB# and Job Title on the front of the mailing envelope.

Email:

allentownlibraryjobs@gmail.com

Please include the JOB# and Job Title in the subject line of all email.

No telephone or in-person inquiries please.

Job Summary

The Full Time Reference Librarian provides a wide range of Library services under the direction of the Adult Services Coordinator. This position requires evenings and Saturdays. Primary responsibilities include providing point-of-use reference, research assistance, technology help, readers advisory, and proctoring services; creating informational materials in diverse formats; and assisting in collection management projects. The ideal candidate is personable and friendly, enjoys being part of a team, working with the community, and has a passion for public library work. Must be able to bend, reach, lift, stoop, and push a book truck. Must possess the manual dexterity and hand eye coordination to operate a computer. Must be able to communicate with the public and speak clearly.

Duties & Tasks

  • Provide direct research and reference services utilizing a broad range of print and online resources by phone, email, and in person
  • Assist patrons in selection of reading material through knowledge of the collection, current literature, and readers’ advisory resources.
  • Assist patrons in the use of the automated catalog and other electronic library resources including databases
  • Provide technical assistance at both the public computers and with personal patron devices.
  • Conduct one-on-one technology assistance appointments
  • Assist in maintaining and developing the library’s collection including print and electronic resources
  • Proctor exams
  • Assume responsibility as Librarian in Charge on evenings and weekends.
  • Completes additional duties as assigned

Qualifications & Skills

  • One (1) to Three (3) years library experience
  • Knowledge of the professional methods of library science
  • Knowledge of electronic and print reference and information resources
  • Ability to interpret library resources and services for the general community
  • Proficient technical skills with working knowledge of Google Workplace & Microsoft Office with the ability to assist patrons with computer and technological functions
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
  • Ability to establish and maintain a welcoming team environment and effective working relationships with others
  • Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills
  • Flexibility and resourcefulness
  • Ability to work independently under general supervision

Required Education

Master’s degree in Library and/or Information Science from an accredited school.

Organizational Capabilities

  • Job Knowledge: understands job procedures and methods; ability to acquire necessary skills; expertness in completion of assigned tasks
  • Quality and Compliance: achieves a standard of excellence with work processes and outcomes; honors Library policies
  • Collegiality: helpful, respectful, approachable and team oriented; builds strong working relationships within and among departments; supports a positive work environment
  • Communication: balance in listening and talking; speaks and writes clearly and accurately; keeps others informed in a timely manner
  • Efficiency: plans ahead; manages time well, including punctuality; creative and innovative; thinks of better ways to do things
  • Initiative: takes ownership of work; does what is needed without being asked; follow through
  • Community Focus: strives for high patron satisfaction in all interactions
  • Coach-ability: receptive to feedback; willingness to learn; embraces continuous development

Job Type: Full Time

Salary: $45,000 – $48,000