Part-Time Substitute Library Assistant

The Urbandale Public Library is currently accepting applications for part-time Substitute Library Assistant. If you enjoy helping people, working with technology, and being part of a vibrant community space, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Under the guidance of the Patron Experiences Manager, Library Assistants connect patrons with physical and digital resources, assist with all kinds of technology, support the circulation of materials, and provide outstanding customer service to a diverse patron population of all ages. No two days are the same, and every day brings new opportunities to learn, problem-solve, and make a difference in someone’s day.

Current Openings in the Patron Experiences Department:

• Two (2) Substitute Library Assistants (up to 20 hours/week) – Year-round, part-time positions. Scheduling is flexible; however, preference will be given to candidates with weekday availability. Substitute staff are required to work at least one weekend shift every four (4) weeks.

Current Starting Pay = $18.49/hour

Effective 7/1/26 Starting Pay (pending City Council approval) = $18.67/hour          

This position is not eligible for health benefits but may be eligible for IPERS. IPERS eligibility and participation will begin once an employee earns $1,000 or more in two consecutive quarters and will continue for the duration of employment.

• Provide welcoming customer service and communication with all patrons.
• Basic circulation functions such as: checking in/out Library materials, creating library cards and monitoring self-checkout stations.
• Assist with setting up and maintaining library displays.
• Provide instruction and assist with appropriate use of electronic and print resources, including subscription databases.
• Advise patrons on reading selections.
• Schedule and monitor study rooms.

Periodic Job Duties/Responsibilities:

• Monitor inventory and order supplies and materials as needed.
• Provide statistical information and reports to the Library Director for reporting purposes.
• Educate patrons on and enforce Library policies and procedures.
• Train and assist department volunteers.
• Attend trainings, monthly staff meetings, and professional development activities including staff in-service days.
• Participate in safety trainings.
• Proctor tests.
• Provide assistance to patrons with overdue accounts, as well as bill and receive payment from patrons for damaged, lost or unreturned materials. 
• Create interlibrary loan requests for patrons and send and receive interlibrary loan items.
• Track and notify patrons/libraries of overdue interlibrary loan items.
• Maintain accurate statistics on interlibrary loans and material recovery issues.
• Ensure that library reports regarding overdue and damaged items are running correctly.
• Notify patrons of materials on hold.
• Coordinate with the Collections department to re-order damaged items.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One (1) year customer service or administrative experience, preferably in a library.

Candidates will receive notifications via email from www.governmentjobs.com (NEOGOV). Please apply using an active email address that you check often and consider enabling text alerts to stay informed.

Tentative Timeline:

• Posting Close: May 17, 2026 at 11:59 PM (CST)
• Interviews: Week of May 25, 2026 - May 29, 2026
• Anticipated Start Date: June 15, 2026