Library Jobs

Library Assistant II - Part-Time (40 Hours/Bi-Weekly)

Typing Required: 25 WPM
Location: Northwestern Region - Five Points West (1), Adult Department
Opens: 04/06/2026
Closes: 04/22/2026

Job Summary

This position requires knowledge of library practices and principles, attention to detail, sound judgment, strong communication skills, and direct contact with the public. The Library Assistant II performs various duties as assigned by the department head, branch manager, or designee. These duties prioritize activities that enhance library services, such as maintenance of the collection, programs, and circulation.

The Library Assistant II must be comfortable performing a variety of computer-oriented and clerical assistance functions that require judgment based on knowledge of procedures and policies for the assignment area. Work involves initiative and judgment on procedural questions encountered according to library board policies, and is performed under the general guidance and direction of the department head, branch manager, or designee.

Examples Of Duties

  • Position reports to the department head, branch manager, or designee.
  • Works with branches and municipal libraries throughout the Birmingham and Jefferson County systems updating library cards and applications, and addresses membership concerns according to board policies and procedures.
  • Provides information to patrons in person and by phone about overdue materials and other matters related to patron records.
  • Creates promotional materials and assists in development and ongoing tasks for programs.
  • Inspects returned materials for damage, verifies due date, and computes and receives overdue fines.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

  • 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 to type at least 25 words per minute (WPM) and ability to file and maintain records.
  • Ability and willingness to give attention to detail and 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.
  • Ability to set priorities.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality when 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 manual dexterity necessary for regular use of PCs. This 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 handling library materials; and ability to push carts, bins, and book trucks loaded with library materials weighing up to 100 pounds.

Minimum Qualifications

High school graduate or equivalent to graduation from high school, including or supplemented by coursework in computer sciences or experience in computer or data entry operations. One year of work experience dealing with the public. Some college preferred. Background check is required.

Benefits

Hours vary biweekly, Grade 13, $15.27 per hour. All positions may include morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend hours, including Sundays. Employees may be required to adapt to future schedule and location changes depending on library needs.

Method Of Application

Applicants must register and apply at the Alabama Career Center: alabamaworks.alabama.gov. 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. The incumbent may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.

Equal Opportunity Employer