LIBRARY SPECIALIST (Reference Division)

POSITION: LIBRARY SPECIALIST (Reference Division)
SALARY: $21.11-$27.71/hour, Part-time, 20 hours/week with varied schedule including weekdays, evenings, & weekends – no insurance benefits ($200/month benefit stipend)
OPENING DATE: April 8, 2026
CLOSING DATE:  April 22, 2026

JOB SUMMARY:
This position primarily works in the Reference Division; however, Library employees are expected to assist patrons in all areas as needed.  The Library Specialist will identify and interpret user needs; provide reference and local history research assistance, assist patrons with readers’ advisory, material selection, computer and database use, referral services, and various adult and youth programming.  Assistance is provided in person, by telephone, through email, and virtually through Ask a Library service. This position requires some evening shifts on weekdays and day shifts on weekends. 
 
CORE VALUES:
All employees are expected to model and foster the City of Ellensburg’s core values in the performance of their duties and their interactions while representing the City and serving the community. The values of Compassion (we care), Courage (we do the right thing), and Conviction (we work hard) promote and maintain a high level of service and are the tie that binds all City employees together, across departments.
 
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
All of the following are to be performed while adhering to City of Ellensburg operational policies, safety rules, and procedures.  This position requires regular and consistent attendance to accomplish the following essential functions: 
 
Reference Services:

• Provide routine reference assistance to patrons and refer complex reference questions to supervisor or appropriate Library Associate.
• Utilize library automation system and online resources.
• Provide information and perform outreach about library programs and services verbally and virtually, through creating and disseminating informational flyers, brochures, and press releases.
• Perform miscellaneous material collection-related duties such as shelving, shifting and book facing.
• Assist with planning and implementation of reference division programming.

• Assist with youth programming including children’s story time planning and implementation, including use of books, songs, rhymes, finger plays, and movement.
• Provide friendly and welcoming assistance to parents and children in the Youth Services division.
• Monitor for inappropriate or disruptive behavior; report any concerns to the Librarian as needed.

• Provide friendly service and support to patrons to create a positive experience for them.
• Inform patrons on library policies, resources, and programs in person, through e-mail, and over the telephone.
• Demonstrate use of library equipment and assist patrons in use.
• Report patron problems to supervisor, person in charge, or take appropriate action.

• Perform opening and closing procedures as instructed by supervisor.
• May be required to travel to other locations to attend trainings, undertake special training activities as directed, and attend and represent the library at various promotional events and activities.
• Report issues with equipment or building systems to supervisor and Director.
• Perform regular light cleaning tasks.
• Maintain orderliness of desks, cabinets, supplies, and equipment for shared staff use.
• Assist circulation at checkout desk as needed.
• Assist will mail distribution, preparation of general library correspondence, and inventory of supplies.
• Assist with special projects such as displays, library décor, etc.
• Work substitute hours for circulation, reference, children’s desk, and Hal Holmes Division as needed.

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
• Two (2) to four (4) years of related college courses, experience, and/or training in reference services
• Please Note:  An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of some of the requirements above, as determined by Management. 

• Knowledge of library organization and purpose; knowledge of alphabetical and whole/decimal number filing; some knowledge of general office practice and procedures.
• Skill in use of computers including Microsoft 365  and other modern technology; accurate computer data entry, filing, and shelving materials; skill in operation of listed tools and equipment.
• Ability to be courteous and tactful with the general public and staff; ability to communicate in a clear, concise manner, verbally and in writing, including public presentations.
• Ability to implement policies and procedures; ability to prioritize work, remain focused, and pay close attention to detail; ability to maintain confidentiality of patron records.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with employees, supervisors, and the general public; ability to assist and support coworkers, contribute ideas, maintain flexibility, and be able to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals; ability to write routine reports and correspondence; ability to speak in a clear, concise, and professional manner before individuals, groups of customers, or employees of organization.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

• Valid State driver’s license or have ability to obtain one by time of hire; must maintain an insurable driving record.
• First Aid/CPR/AED certification or ability to obtain within a reasonable time period as approved by supervisor.

• Previous supervisory experience.
• Bilingual English/Spanish.