Librarian - Mobile Outreach (Administrative Office)

Librarian - Mobile Outreach (Administrative Office)

Salary

$24.91 Hourly

Location

Houston, TX

Job Type

Regular Full-time

Job Number

16836

Department

Public Library

Division

Administrative Offices

Opening Date

07/07/2026

Closing Date

8/31/2026 11:59 AM Central

Max Number of Applicants

200

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Position Description

Harris County Public Library (HCPL) - History

The Harris County Public Library (HCPL) system, established in 1921, began as a collection of small libraries located in stores, post offices, and private homes. Over the years, it has grown into a robust network comprising 26 branch libraries, two technology service centers, and two partner locations that provide collection and circulation services. HCPL serves the communities of unincorporated Harris County and cities without independent library systems.

In 2024, HCPL received the prestigious National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest honor awarded to libraries in the United States. Bestowed annually by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), this award recognizes institutions that deliver exceptional service to their communities. The library was recognized for innovative initiatives like HCPL Connected, Enhanced+ Library Cards, and its Mobile Outreach Librarian program.

HCPL is also recognized as one of the best places to work, offering a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Its dedication to employee well-being, diversity, and community impact makes HCPL more than just a workplace-it's where individuals can grow, inspire, and contribute to meaningful change.

What you will do at Harris County Public Library:

Provides library outreach services, programs, and resources primarily outside library walls at partner facilities and community locations throughout Harris County. Develops, promotes, implements, and evaluates all-age library programs, outreach services, and special events. Identifies community needs; supports remote collections, provides reference, reader's advisory, and circulation assistance; and maintains strong partnerships as a vital part of HCPL's Programs, Partnerships, and Outreach Division.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develops, facilitates, and delivers off-site library programs and services at community centers, residential facilities, partner sites, and other community locations throughout Harris County
• Plans, coordinates, promotes, implements, and evaluates all-age library programs, outreach services, summer reading activities, and special events
• Identifies community information needs and develops programs, services, and resources to meet those needs
• Builds and maintains cooperative relationships with schools, youth organizations, residential facilities, community centers, local organizations, and other community partners
• Attends outreach events to promote HCPL services, programs, and resources to Harris County community members, partners, and stakeholders
• Delivers in-person and virtual presentations to community partners, local organizations, and the public to promote library services, programs, and resources
• Curates, maintains, and supports remote collections, displays, and library materials at partner facilities, including providing circulation assistance as needed
• Provides reader's advisory, reference assistance, and general library service support to patrons in off-site and outreach settings
• Collects photographs, videos, and other new content assets at outreach events and programs in accordance with established procedures
• Reviews and evaluates existing programs and services; recommends improvements to procedures, service delivery, and program effectiveness
• Evaluates and applies knowledge of current library trends, community engagement practices, and all-age programming to improve outreach services and programs
• Attends staff meetings, trainings, activities, professional conferences, and related events; actively participates in committees and workgroups
• Performs other duties as assigned

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx

If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Requirements

All applicants must register and take the HRT Clerical Skills Test and score a minimum of 80% with a typing speed of 30 wpm and 80% accuracy.

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/harriscountytx/jobs/998426-0/hrt-clerical-skills-test

Please see testing instructions in the General Information section below.

Education & Experience:

• Master Degree in Library Science from an accredited university or college

• Consideration will be given to individuals currently pursuing a master's degree in Library Science and will be completing the degree within the next four (4) months

• Proof of completion of the degree will be required for permanent status in the position

• One (1) year of full-time public library experience

• One (1) year of full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups

OR

• Bachelors degree in any field from an accredited college or university
• Two (2) years of full-time public library experience
• Two (2) years of full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups

OR

• Associates degree in any field or 60 hours of secondary education credits from an accredited college or university
• Four (4) years of full-time public library experience
• Four (4) years of full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups

OR

• High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent
• Six (6) years of full-time public library experience
• Six (6) years of full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups

Additional Requirements:

• Reliable transportation with a valid state of Texas driver's license and auto liability insurance.
• Candidates must complete a clerical skills test and achieve a minimum typing speed of 80% aptitude, 30 WPM with at least 80% accuracy

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of public library principles, practices, terminology, resources, and the theory and philosophy of librarianship
• Skill in verbal and written communication, including in-person and virtual presentations, reports, patron assistance, and partner communications
• Skill in providing exceptional customer service through empathy, clear communication, problem-solving, and professional interaction with diverse patrons, staff, and partners
• Skill in planning, promoting, delivering, and evaluating engaging programs and services for all ages, including structured computer classes, technology Q&A sessions, book clubs, ESL, children's story times, children's crafts, literacy, cultural, recreational, and outreach activities
• Skill in building partnerships, delivering in-person and virtual presentations, preparing reports, and maintaining statistical records
• Ability to identify community needs and develop responsive programs, services, collections, and resources
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, manage multiple priorities, exercise initiative and discretion, and foster teamwork in a diverse environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), Office 365, Internet resources, library systems, digital tools, social media platforms
• Ability to use a personal mobile device for required multifactor authentication processes

NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.

Preferences

Experience:

• Experience working with one or more age groups (preferred)

Language:

• Bilingual (preferred)

General Information

Register Online for the HRT Clerical Skills Test using the following link:

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/harriscountytx/jobs/998426-0/hrt-clerical-skills-test

Click the above link to the HRRM Clerical Skills Test registration page

Click on "Apply" to submit your request for testing

You will receive a test invitation and instructions via e-mail within 48 hours

You will have no more than 5 calendar days to access and complete testing

Your score will be automatically uploaded to your application

The test may be taken once every 30 days

Most recent test scores are retained for up to 6 months

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:

• Position generally scheduled Monday-Friday, with attendance at weekend and evening events regularly required. Possible work in an outdoor environment with exposure to inclement weather or various temperature changes.

Salary:

• $24.91 Per Hour
• Paid Biweekly

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

• This job typically operates in a professional office environment with overhead lighting and long periods of screen time.
• Daily use of a computer, keyboard, copier, scanner, printer, calculator, phone (desk and cell).
• Daily use of software programs including Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, Word, Excel, and GPS.
• At times, work may be performed in an outdoor environment and may have possible exposure to inclement weather or various temperature changes.
• Driving: Available and reliable transportation for work-related duties.
• Sitting for long periods; light physical activity that may include walking, standing, stooping, bending, reaching, lifting, and carrying.
• Ability to lift, carry, and exert up to 25 pounds. Occasionally lifts, carries, and exerts up to 40 pounds.

Reporting Relationships:

• Reports To Position: Manager IV - Outreach Services
• Supervises Positions: None

Work Location:

• HCPL Administrative Office - 5749 South Loop East, Houston, TX 77033

Employment is contingent upon passing a background check.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.

HARRIS COUNTY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Harris County offers a highly competitive benefits program, featuring a comprehensive group health plan and defined benefit retirement plan.

The following benefits are offered only to Harris County employees in regular (full-time) positions:

Health & Wellness Benefits

• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Wellness Plan
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account

Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Ten (10) days of vacation leave per year (accrual rate increases after 5 years of service)
• Eleven (11) County-observed holidays
• One (1) floating holiday per year
• Paid Parental Leave*
• Sick Leave

Retirement Savings Benefit

• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan

The following benefits are available to Harris County employees in full-time and select part-time positions:

• Professional learning & development opportunities
• Retirement pension (TCDRS defined benefit plan)
• Flexible work schedule*
• METRO RideSponsor Program*
• Participation may vary by County department. The employee benefits plans of Harris County are extended to all eligible participants across various departments with the exception of the Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department, for which the cited Health & Wellness Benefits are administered through the State of Texas.

In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, group health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Harris County Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the Countys behalf as needed.

For plan details, visit the Harris County Benefits & Wellness website:

www.benefitsathctx.com

01

Which of the following best describes your highest level of education completed as it relates to this position?

• High School or GED diploma
• Associate Degree
• Bachelors Degree
• Masters Degree or higher
• None of the above

02

Do you have a Master of Library Science degree from an ALA-accredited university? Degree major/minor and graduation date must be documented on your application education history.

• Yes
• N/A; No Degree

03

If you selected No in response to the previous question, are you currently pursuing a masters degree in Library Science that will be completing the degree within the next four (4) months? (Proof of completion of the degree will be required for permanent status in the position.)

• Yes
• N/A; No Degree

04

Have you completed 60 hours of secondary education credits from an accredited college or university?

• Yes
• No

05

Please describe your educational background (i.e. diploma, degree, certifications, etc.) including the level of education completed, area of study, and completed major and minor programs.

06

Which of the following best describes your verifiable full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups? (To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your applications employment history)

• Less than one (1) year
• One (1) year or more but less than two (2) years
• Two (2) years or more but less than three (3) years
• Three (3) years or more but less than four (4) years
• Four (4) years or more but less than five (5) years
• Five (5) years or more but less than six (6) years
• Six (6) years or more
• I do not have this experience

07

Which of the following closely aligns with your verifiable experience designing, planning, and making educational activities for a particular age group in a learning or library environment? [Select all that apply.]

• Services/Programs
• Community Outreach Initiatives
• Education/Training
• Library Services
• Other qualifying experience (Please explain below)
• None of the above

08

Please provide details about your verifiable full-time experience designing, planning, and facilitating educational programming activities for one or more age groups. Do not use "See Resume", as we do not use resumes to assess qualifications. (To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your applications employment history) If you do not have this experience, please type "None" in the space provided.

09

Which of the following best describes your verifiable full-time public library experience? (To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your applications employment history)

• Less than one (1) year
• One (1) year or more but less than two (2) years
• Two (2) years or more but less than three (3) years
• Three (3) years or more but less than four (4) years
• Four (4) years or more but less than five (5) years
• Five (5) years or more but less than six (6) years
• Six (6) years or more
• I do not have this experience

10

Please provide details about your full-time public library experience. Do not use "See Resume", as we do not use resumes to assess qualifications. (To be considered, qualifying experience must be documented in your applications employment history) If you do not have this experience, please type "None" in the space provided.

11

How would you rate your organization, written and oral communication skills?

• High: Confident/Competent
• Medium: Some areas of strength
• Low: Limited skills
• I do not possess this skill and/or experience

12

Which of the following describes your level of proficiency using a personal computer and common office software such as MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook). Please select your level of proficiency based on the following descriptions: Advanced: A person with this level of skills is able to produce very large, complex formal documents that require a table of contents, footnotes, endnotes, bookmarks, and other special elements; a wide range of graphic effects, and use advanced techniques for analyzing and manipulating data. Has full mastery of Macro commands and skills to tie the objects together into a cohesive system by using Macros and Visual Basic for Applications code. Makes interactive presentations by using hyperlinks and action buttons. Intermediate: A person with this level of skills is able to customize toolbars, import and insert graphs, embed Excel data, and elaborate reports. Understands the concepts of databases and is able to work with charts and to use the list management capabilities of Excel. Able to use complex query techniques, create efficient forms and reports, and create Macros to automate these forms. Makes interactive presentations by using hyperlinks and action buttons. Basic: A person with this level of skills is able to use basic formatting, editing, printing functions, and understands the document page setup. Has the ability to enter and correct data, modify a workbook, format a worksheet, and use printing functions. Understands the different database concepts and structures and is familiar with data validation and is able to create a simple presentation in PowerPoint, run it, and print it. Entry Level: A person with this level of skills has the ability to open, create, save and modify documents in Word, send and receive email in Outlook and create spreadsheets in Excel. Format documents for printing, comfortable using the printer menu to preview documents. Has ability to change the font, the margins, inse

• Advanced
• Intermediate
• Basic
• Entry Level
• Not proficient

13

An unofficial copy of your college transcript is required along with your application. (Please scan your transcripts and attach to this application before submitting).

• Yes, I have attached a copy of my complete transcripts.
• No, I have not attached the required transcript. I understand that this may result in disqualification from the employment process.
• N/A (not applicable)

14

Which of the following language(s) are you bilingual and fluent? Select all that apply:

• English and Spanish
• English and Vietnamese
• English and Chinese
• English and Arabic
• English and Urdu
• English and Tagalog
• English and Other Language(s)
• None of the Above

15

Do you have previous experience working with one or more age groups?

• Yes
• No

16

Which of the following are your preferred focus areas:

• Children
• Youth
• Adult
• Young Adult
• No preference

17

Clerical Test Acknowledgement I understand this position requires the HRT Clerical Skills Test scores to be on file before my application can move forward through the application process. I understand if I do not already have scores on file, I will need to complete the HRT Clerical Skills Test within five (5) days of receiving the invitation to apply from HRT. I understand that if I do not complete the HRT Clerical Skills Test my application will be invalid/disqualified.

• I acknowledge and understand the above instructions.
• I acknowledge that I currently have test scores on file.

18

Are you a current Harris County employee?

• Yes, I am a current Harris County employee
• No, I am not a current employee but have previously worked Harris County
• None of the above.

Required Question

Employer Harris County

Address 1111 Fannin St

Ste. 600

Houston, Texas, 77002

Phone 713-274-5445

Website https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/harriscountytx