Library Specialist ; Aldine Branch Library

The Harris County Public Library (HCPL) system, established in 1921, began as a collection of small libraries located in stores, post offices, and private homes. Over the years, it has grown into a robust network comprising 26 branch libraries, two technology service centers, and two partner locations that provide collection and circulation services. HCPL serves the communities of unincorporated Harris County and cities without independent library systems.

In 2024, HCPL received the prestigious National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest honor awarded to libraries in the United States. Bestowed annually by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), this award recognizes institutions that deliver exceptional service to their communities. The library was recognized for innovative initiatives like HCPL Connected, Enhanced+ Library Cards, and its Mobile Outreach Librarian program.

HCPL is also recognized as one of the best places to work, offering a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Its dedication to employee well-being, diversity, and community impact makes HCPL more than just a workplace—it’s where individuals can grow, inspire, and contribute to meaningful change.

The Library Specialist I provides frontline customer service and entry-level specialized support for daily library operations. The position assists patrons with library card registration, account maintenance, circulation transactions, readers' advisory, basic reference and research, digital resources, and technology or lab activities; processes, sorts, shelves, and maintains library materials; and plans, delivers, and promotes programs for patrons of all ages. The position also supports collection maintenance, community outreach, opening and closing activities, facility readiness, and accurate service records while protecting patron confidentiality.

The position contributes to safe, organized, welcoming, and inclusive access to information, technology, and learning resources.

• Provides courteous, responsive, and inclusive frontline customer service to patrons in person, by telephone, and through approved electronic communication channels.
• Greets patrons, identifies their needs, explains available services and resources, and connects them with the appropriate staff member or service when additional assistance is required.
• Performs circulation and patron-account functions using the integrated library system and established procedures.
• Registers patrons for library cards; verifies and updates account information; checks materials in and out; places and processes holds; renews materials; explains notices, fees, and account status; accepts approved payments when assigned; and maintains accurate transaction records.
• Protects the confidentiality of patron registration, account, circulation, reference and technology-use, and other service information in accordance with applicable law and library policy.
• Provides readers' advisory and basic reference and research assistance for patrons of all ages.
• Uses the library catalog, print materials, databases, digital collections, and credible online sources to help patrons locate, evaluate, and use information and refers advanced, sensitive, or specialized requests to professional staff.
• Assists patrons with public computers, printers, scanners, copiers, wireless access, e-books, databases, mobile devices, digital resources, and approved makerspace or lab equipment.
• Provides basic digital‑literacy instruction, explains standard technology procedures, troubleshoots routine equipment or access…