On Call Librarian at Palos Verdes Library District (CA) – Rolling Hills Estates, California

The Palos Verdes Library District (PVLD) is recruiting applicants for On-Call Librarians for our Adult Services/Young Readers Departments.

On-Call Librarians primarily focus on reference and customer service. They can be assigned to Adult, Teen, Young Readers or special projects as needed. There will be no guarantee of weekly hours. This position functions on an on-call, as-needed basis.

The ideal candidate is someone who has a thorough understanding of the principles, practices, procedures, techniques, and materials of professional library work. The ideal Candidate should exhibit a strong service orientation and a demonstrated dedication to quality customer service in a diverse community. The ideal candidate will feel comfortable working both the Adult Reference Desk and the Young Readers Reference Desk. In addition, the successful candidate will be flexible in their availability to work specifically as needed. Current staffing needs are for Sundays, Mondays, and Saturdays and some evening hours Tuesday-Thursday. Staffing needs are subject to change and hours are not guaranteed.

THIS POSTING WILL CLOSE AT 5:00 PM ON AUGUST 18, 2025. APPLICATIONS WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED ONLINE THROUGH OUR APPLICANT TRACKING SYSTEM.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Provides a high level of customer service.

• Performs professional responsibilities independently and with minimal supervision.

• Advises and assists library customers; demonstrates the use of library resources.

• Provides reference and readers advisory services to customers of all ages.

• Performs bibliographic searches using both print and non-print sources.

• Responds to suggestions, requests, or concerns from library users or community members.

• Identifies and anticipates changing community needs and changes in technology or library best practices. May develop plans, services, and programs to address these needs and changes.

• Remains knowledgeable about technological advances and societal trends that impact library services.

• May participate in meetings, committees, or projects intended to enhance services or promote consistent policies and procedures across the District.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION, LICENSE AND EXPERIENCE

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

A Master’s degree, or are within 6 months of graduating, from an American Library Association accredited college or university with major coursework in library science or substantially equivalent education and experience and to be capable of carrying out the full range of duties of a professional librarian.

Note: The candidate selected for this position must be able to provide educational verification in the form of an official transcript of his or her highest degree. The District must receive the transcript directly from the institution.

Desired Qualifications:

• Exceptional customer service skills and enthusiasm for working with the public.

• Ability to effectively conduct reference interviews.

• Ability to gather, analyze, and respond to data and statistics.

• Strong writing skills in various forms of communication.

• Proven ability to problem solve and identify opportunities for growth and change.

• Ability to use technology and software such as Microsoft Office, integrated library systems, digital reference tools, and databases.

• Communicate clearly, concisely, and persuasively, verbally and in writing.

• Strong understanding or willingness to learn various digital platforms to provide patron assistance.

• Strong interpersonal skills with an ability to maintain and foster cooperative and courteous working relationships.

• Adaptability and flexibility.

Physical Demands

Must be able to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Must possess the ability to retrieve, process, and store library materials as well as enter and retrieve data using a computer. Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach, as well as push and pull heavy book carts. Positions in this classification frequently lift and carry library materials that typically weigh less than 50 pounds.

Environmental Elements

Employees work in an open floor office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Occasionally, incumbents may have to visit other branch libraries or perform job duties outdoors and may be exposed to inclement weather conditions and hot and cold temperatures. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or patrons in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

Working Conditions

Required to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. This position is designed as an on-call position and is not intended to work a set schedule although may have one depending on the needs of the District.

Selection Process

This posting will close at 5:00 pm on August 18, 2025

Applications will only be accepted online through our Applicant Tracking System

Please submit your resume with your application and answer all supplemental questions. Note: AI generated answers may impact consideration for this position.

Any further questions can be directed to PVLD’s Human Resources at (310) 377-9584 ext. 248

THE PALOS VERDES LIBRARY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER