Intermittent Library Associate IV

Intermittent Library Associate IV (Multiple Vacancies)

Intermittent, FLSA non-exempt, part‑time, on‑call position. Deployment may be to any SPL location.

Maximum of 1040 hours per 12‑month period.

Hourly rate: $38.96 per hour plus premium pay starting at 5% for hours worked. Two‑week pay period dates: starts Wednesday ends Tuesday.

Schedules may include weekdays, weekends, and evenings and are subject to change based on operational needs. Classified as part of the AFSCME bargaining unit.

The Seattle Public Library’s mission is to bring people, information and ideas together to enrich lives and build community. The Library values intellectual freedom, literacy, privacy, respect, partnership, and innovation. We are an active partner in the City of Seattle’s Race and Social Justice Initiative.

• Provide basic readers’ advisory and reference services in all subjects in person, on the phone, and online, using the SPL catalog, website, licensed databases, and web resources.
• Refer complex reference questions to the appropriate reference service provider when necessary.
• Perform basic troubleshooting for patrons using library‑related technology, including public computers, print services, and internet guest passes; provide instruction to individuals and groups.
• Provide information about library operations, services, and policies to patrons throughout the system.
• Assist patrons with circulation activities: checking in and out items, paying fees, placing holds, updating borrower records, and registering new borrowers.
• Perform support duties and special projects as assigned, such as supporting collection maintenance.
• Serve as a branch building lead on‑call as required.

• High School Diploma or GED required. Postsecondary education and/or relevant work experience considered.
• Minimum 3 years of professional customer service experience to the general public.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and ability to resolve issues among staff and patrons. Must be able to communicate in English.
• Experience with print and electronic reference resources (dictionaries, encyclopedias, databases, web search engines) and maintaining knowledge of current services, programs, and events.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; experience managing electronic files and shared documents; ability to troubleshoot basic computer and office equipment issues.
• Organization, efficiency, and proactive prioritization of daily tasks.
• Sound judgment in problem‑solving and deductive reasoning, including appropriate referral and application of library policies.

• Experience maintaining SharePoint or other staff‑only online information.
• Proficiency in Horizon Integrated Library System or similar.
• Experience working with racially, culturally, and economically diverse communities.
• Experience interacting with persons experiencing housing insecurity, addiction or mental illness.
• Familiarity with de‑escalation principles and application of those skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively in a language other than English (e.g., Amharic, Chinese, Oromo, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tigrinya, Vietnamese, or American Sign Language).
• Schedule flexibility.

Please submit a complete online application, a cover letter describing how your experience and skills align with the responsibilities and qualifications, and a current résumé by 5:00 p.m. on June 12, 2026. Missing any of these items will result in your application not being considered.

Applications will be screened for competitiveness, completeness, and written communication skills. The most competitive candidates will be invited to participate in one or more interviews.

Eligible for sick leave and access to the Employee Assistance Program.

Questions regarding this bulletin or employment can be directed to job.applications.

The Library promotes diversity and inclusion in employment. Accommodations may be requested during the selection process.

Job offers are contingent on a review of criminal history and verification of information provided.