Library Jobs

Library Assistant III - Full Time

Location: Central - Archives
Opens: 4/13/2026
Closes: 4/29/2026

Job Summary

This position requires performance of paraprofessional duties according to the principles and practices of modern library systems and programs under the supervision of a branch or department head. Paraprofessional duties include providing services to library patrons and assisting in processing, identifying, and preserving archival material. The position may assist in supervising a department and works under the general supervision of the branch or department manager.

Examples Of Duties

  • Reports to branch or department head.
  • Assists branch or department head in directing the staff and operations of the assigned library or department to accomplish service objectives in accordance with established policy.
  • Oversees the branch or department in the absence of the branch or department head.
  • Assists patrons in the selection and handling of archival materials and provides reference guidance.
  • Performs paraprofessional processing, identifying, digitizing, and preservation of archival materials.
  • Answers telephone calls and provides information or otherwise assists or refers patrons as appropriate.
  • Processes in-house reference work.
  • Maintains necessary operating records.
  • Assists in maintaining library archival collections.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

Desirable Knowledge, Abilities, And Skills

  • Knowledge and practice of good customer service skills and ability to establish cordial and effective relationships with associates and patrons.
  • Knowledge of and experience with computers and various computer software applications, peripherals, online databases, online searching, and the Internet.
  • Knowledge of library procedures, business English, spelling, and math.
  • Ability and willingness to give attention to detail and to ask questions when unsure.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions.
  • Ability and willingness to adhere to departmental rules, regulations, procedures, and functions.
  • Ability to make decisions in accordance with procedures and regulations, and to apply these to work situations.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and patrons.
  • Ability to learn current trends in library service.
  • Knowledge of Birmingham and/or Alabama history.
  • Ability to set priorities.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality in dealing with patron records.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Work Environment/Physical Requirements

Physical requirements include the ability to stand for long periods of time; eyesight sufficient to read and understand information from microforms and PC monitors; and the manual dexterity necessary for the regular use of PCs. The position also requires the ability to stoop, twist, turn, and move materials in the library; ability to lift moderate weight up to 50 pounds in the handling of library materials; and ability to push carts, bins, and book trucks loaded with library materials weighing up to 100 pounds.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university is required. All positions may include morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend hours, including Sunday. Employees may be required to adapt to future schedule and location changes depending on library needs. Background check is required.

Benefits

The City of Birmingham offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

  • 80 hours biweekly, Grade 16 - Salary range: $37,128.00 - $40,934.40 (starting salary is commensurate with education and experience).
  • A City-sponsored pension retirement plan. The City of Birmingham provides a Tier 3 defined benefit plan where employee retirement payments are computed using a formula that considers several factors, such as length of employment and salary history.
  • Excellent medical insurance with employee monthly contribution as low as $32.50 per month.
  • Dental insurance.
  • Vision insurance.
  • Behavioral health plan.
  • Group Term Life and AD&D Insurance, Voluntary Term Life and AD&D, Whole Life Insurance, and short-term disability options.
  • Paid vacation and sick leave.
  • Generous holiday schedule.
  • Membership and admission benefits for City attractions such as the Birmingham Zoo, Birmingham Museum of Art, Southern Museum of Flight, and more.

Method Of Application

Applicants must register and apply at the Alabama Career Center: alabamaworks.alabama.gov. A resume and transcript must be submitted with the application. The application will be forwarded to the Birmingham Public Library Personnel Officer.

Library employees need not go through the Alabama Career Center and may submit applications directly to the Library Personnel Office. Qualified applicants may be contacted for an interview.

You must pass a pre-employment health screen before you may be employed by the Birmingham Public Library. Position available immediately.

This job description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.

Equal Opportunity Employer