Programming Associate (Part-Time) in Gurnee, Illinois at Warren-Newport Public Library

Do you love the thought of helping people feel welcome and engaged at the library? Warren–Newport Public Library District is seeking a part-time Programming Associate (average of 12 hours per week) to support patrons, activities, and lively library spaces during evening and weekend hours.

The starting hourly range is $18.12-$20.73 per hour DOE.

Schedule

• Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Two weekend shifts per month:

• Saturday: four-hour shift (between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
• Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

(Sunday hours run from Labor Day through Memorial Day and are paid at time and a half.)

What You'll Do

• Provide a consistent staff presence in active library spaces for young children and families, elementary students, teens, and other PCE spaces as assigned.
• Answer patron questions at the service point and connect patrons with additional staff support when needed.
• Provide basic reader’s advisory and help patrons locate or connect with library materials and services.
• Welcome patrons and help them understand how to use shared spaces, materials, and activities appropriately.
• Support prepared activities, games, creative materials, and passive engagement options available in the space.
• Monitor spaces during evening and weekend hours to help maintain a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment.
• Reinforce posted expectations and redirect behavior using calm, positive communication.
• Assist with basic setup, cleanup, restocking, and organization of materials and supplies.
• Communicate supply needs, patron concerns, behavior patterns, or facility issues to PCE staff or the appropriate supervisor.
• Help support smooth transitions between open use, activities, programs, and closing routines.
• Assist PCE staff with programs, events, or library-wide initiatives as needed.
• Follow library policies and procedures and seek support when situations require escalation.

Part-Time Benefits Include:

• Paid time off in accordance with the Paid Leave for All Workers Act (PLAWA)
• Voluntary 457 Retirement Plan participation

Perks & Work Environment:

• Access to the Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)
• Casual dress code
• Access to a staff lounge
• Monthly staff events

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Some college coursework or experience in libraries, education, recreation, customer service, or community-based work preferred.

Experience

• Strong customer service skills.
• Experience working with children, tweens, teens, families, or the public preferred.

Additional Skills & Knowledge:

• Ability to support a welcoming environment for patrons of different ages, backgrounds, and needs.
• Ability to communicate expectations clearly, calmly, and respectfully.
• Comfortable using basic technology and assisting patrons with general service point questions.
• Spanish language skills a plus.

Work Environment

• The role involves a mix of sitting, standing, walking, and moving throughout active public spaces.
• Frequent interaction with the public, including children, tweens, teens, caregivers, and families, is required.
• Schedule includes evening and weekend hours based on library needs.
• Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment for setup, cleanup, and space support, up to 40 lbs.
• We are committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the Warren–Newport Public Library District online application system. Please visit www.wnpl.info, select About, and click Jobs at WNPL.

Applicants applying through our website will receive emails from recruiting@talent.paylocity.com and should add this address to their safe sender list.

Applicant Assistance

Warren–Newport Public Library District complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance completing the application process or require an accommodation due to a disability, please contact Human Resources at hr@wnpl.info

Equal Opportunity Employer

Warren–Newport Public Library District is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, disability, marital status, military status, or any other legally protected category.

Application Inquiries

Applications and resumes are accepted for posted positions only. Due to the volume of applications received, the Library is unable to respond to phone or email inquiries regarding application status.