Associate Librarian - Children's Services

Associate Librarian – Children’s Services

Join to apply for the Associate Librarian – Children’s Services role at Salt Lake City Public Library

Salt Lake City Public Library – Main Library, Children's Department, 210 E 400 S, SLC, UT

Salary: $21.26/hour (depending on qualifications). Full‑time, non‑exempt. Final date to receive applications:
January 5 2026. Reports to the Children’s Department Manager.

Associate Librarians perform a variety of reference, circulation, customer service, and location support. They lead or assist with programming, outreach, and other library services with a focus on children and tweens.

• High‑quality customer service: Provide assistance to patrons, interpret library rules, handle difficult interactions, and assist with computers and technology for a diverse population with a focus on children and tweens.
• Working relationships: Foster good relationships with staff, patrons, volunteers, and vendors; accept assignments in a timely manner.
• Programming and outreach: Plan, prepare, and present children's programs, story times, and literacy activities for children and tweens.
• Committees and work groups: Take a leadership role when participating in committees or work groups aligned with strategic goals.
• Collection maintenance: Provide support with collection maintenance as assigned.
• Create and maintain displays: Develop high‑quality library displays using materials, art, bulletin boards, graphics, or other objects.
• Supervision and leadership: Mentor staff, assist with hiring, supervise or support volunteer programs, and act as manager in absences.
• Circulation tasks: Check‑in and check‑out library materials, process hold requests, assist with account activity, and handle cash transactions as required.
• Material placement: Perform sorting, shelving, and retrieving of library materials.
• Other duties: Perform duties as assigned or required.

Completion of a bachelor’s degree and one year of related job experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the knowledge and background to perform the primary responsibilities.

• Friendly, welcoming, and professional interactions with all library users.
• Anticipates and proactively addresses user needs.
• Provides equitable service to all patrons regardless of background.
• Goes above and beyond to ensure patron satisfaction.
• Maintains composure in high‑pressure service situations.

• Handles challenging patron interactions with patience, empathy, and professionalism.
• Uses active listening and validation to defuse tense situations.
• Remains calm and solution‑focused; applies conflict resolution skills.
• Recognizes when to involve supervisors while maintaining patron relationships.

• Demonstrates respect for diversity and adapts communication style to meet diverse patrons’ needs.
• Shows awareness of cultural norms, values, and preferences.
• Works to eliminate bias and create an inclusive environment.
• Seeks to understand and serve patrons from different backgrounds with cultural humility.

• Builds trust‑based relationships with patrons, families, and community members.
• Demonstrates knowledge of local community needs and resources.
• Engages community partners and organizations to extend library impact.
• Creates welcoming connections to encourage repeat library use.
• Serves as a community connector, linking patrons to services and resources.

• Proficient with integrated library systems for circulation, cataloging, and patron account management.
• Comfortable navigating and teaching patrons to use digital resources, databases, and online catalogs.
• General computer skills including email, word processing, spreadsheets, and internet browsing.
• Stays current with emerging web technologies and digital tools relevant to library services.
• Assists patrons with computers, mobile devices, printers, and library technology.

• Guides patrons in finding relevant information across multiple formats and sources.
• Teaches critical evaluation skills and research strategies.
• Condu…