Program Services Specialist

The Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library is looking for a Program Services Specialist who is enthusiastic, organized, and an effective communicator to work with our dynamic program services team. As the Program Services Specialist, you will play a crucial role in the smooth functioning of program services. If you thrive in detailed, organized work and place a high value on engaging opportunities for the community this job is just for you.

This position is responsible for creating library programs for the public, supporting library programming staff, and assisting the Program Services Coordinator with programming projects and committees. This position supports the Library’s goals of encouraging curiosity and a passion for learning daily.

As the Program Services Specialist some of the things you will do are:

Program Planning and Implementation

• Develops, plans, and implements programs and events for the public at the Library and at community sites that meet the needs of the customer in accordance with the Library’s organizational priorities and goals. Maintains program attendance.
• Maintains involvement in and identifies opportunities for new involvement in community committees where Library programming is advantageous. Collaborates with community organizations and outside entities to facilitate library programs.
• Identifies and recommends new program opportunities and initiatives to expand the library’s impact.
• Leads and participates in assigned library committees, contributing expertise and supporting broader organizational goals.
• Collaborates with Communications and Marketing to promote programs, services and resources.

Programming Support and Data Collection

• Assists the Program Services Coordinator with identifying, developing, and providing formal (training, toolkits, guidelines) and informal (mentorship, peer guidance) development opportunities for the Library’s programming staff.
• Supports and assists library staff with developing and implementing programs for the public as well as other issues program related that may be needed.
• Provides oversight for Library programming spaces regarding operations, processes, inventory, and usage.
• Supports the Program Services Coordinator in collecting statistical data and feedback regarding library programs and events on an ongoing basis.
• Provides technical support as a member of the Event Resources team. Assists Event Specialist with approving and publishing library programs and events in Event Management System.
• Assists with large events like author visits, genealogy events, and summer events

Customer Service

• Provides direct customer service during regular shifts at the Administrative Office front desk.
• Works other assigned service points as determined.
• Maintains prompt arrival and efficiently and dependably maintains scheduled hours.

Position Requirements & Preferences:

Required:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• A combination of customer service, administrative support work and/or post-secondary education to total three years is required.

Preferred:

• One year of experience with developing and presenting programs or training.
• One year of experience with administrative support work.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to work with diverse populations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and skills utilizing Microsoft Office Suite software.
• Ability to find new ways to increase community and staff engagement and forge meaningful connections.
• Ability to present engaging public programs.
• Ability to prepare and make effective presentations.
• Knowledge of best practices for library programming and outreach.
• Ability to develop professional relationships and interact effectively with Library staff at all levels as well as customers and community collaborators.
• Demonstrated organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to perform detailed work with accuracy.
• Ability to communicate effectively and inclusively, with cultural sensitivity and be approachable in verbal, written, and non-verbal communications.
• Ability to work independently as a self-starter or in a team and adapt quickly in a fast-paced work environment.
• Ability to work scheduled hours, arrive promptly and maintain regular and reliable…