Public Safety Specialist

Full Time Public Safety Specialist (NY HELPS)

Location:

Washington Avenue Branch

Reports to:

Head of Public Safety

Updated: 8/7/2026

EXTERNAL POSTING

This position is responsible for ensuring a safe and enjoyable library environment. In general, this position responds to incidents of conflict in the library workplace and finds immediate solutions, including contacting appropriate authorities. Incumbent also acts as a community liaison and assists with various library programming. This position is under direct supervision of a librarian or other supervisory library staff member with leeway permitted for the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the details of the work.

• Communicates and enforces the library’s Behavior Policy.
• Monitors library to ensure all patrons can enjoy a safe place to access materials and information.
• Support library staff when dealing with difficult patrons.
• Encourages patrons to exit buildings when not allowed in due to prescribed policy or banning.
• Mediates problem interactions between patrons or problem interactions between patrons and staff, and/or contacts the proper authorities.
• Serve as a positive role model for the library and community youth.
• Assists with programming to entertain, educate and engage library users of all ages.
• Assists with activities and events that support the personal, social, cultural and academic growth of young people.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Possess strong interpersonal skills.
• Represent the library in a positive and friendly manner.
• Knowledge of the neighborhood and community.
• Ability to de-escalate and resolve conflict.
• Ability to engage with visitors of all ages.
• Ability to perform both independently and as a team member.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Demonstrate the ability to communicate emergencies to police and emergency personnel whenever required.
• Possesses and demonstrate emotional maturity.
• Demonstrates good judgement even in stressful situations.
• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

• Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma.

37.5 hours per week including weekends, afternoon, and evening hours.

Monday - 10am-6pm

Tuesday - 12am-8pm

Thursday - 12pm-8pm

Friday 10am-6pm

Starting pay: $17.23/ hour

Full-Time employees are offered a generous benefits package

Final date to receive applications:
Friday, August 14, 2026

Albany Public Library is an AA/EO institution and is strongly and actively committed to increasing diversity within its organization.