Youth Services Assistant - Whatcom County Library System - Whatcom County Library System

The Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) is accepting applications for a full-time YouthServices Assistant (YSA) position. Regular hours will take place at WCLS Administrative Services, 5205 Northwest Drive, Bellingham, WA; some hours may take place at any WCLS library, surrounding schools or events serving young people.

This posting will close at 5pm on Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

DUTIES: The Youth Services Assistant supports the Youth Services Team's system-wide efforts and programs; delivers library service to children and teens, and their families, in libraries, in schools, wherever young people are; promotes reading, curiosity, information literacy, and library use; develops and provides programs; maintains youth events calendar/statistics; and performs similar tasks as required.

WORKING HOURS: Average of forty (40) regular scheduled weekly hours, including some evening and weekend shifts. Successful candidates may be required to adapt to future schedule and/or worksite changes depending on library needs.

QUALIFICATIONS:Excellent interpersonal skills required: ability to communicate effectively and appropriately with people from diverse backgrounds, especially youth and teens, and work harmoniously with the public and other staff members is essential. Ability to inspire a love of reading and curiosity about the world in children and/or teens through engaging storytimes, book talks, and other presentations and programs at libraries, schools, and in the community. An interest in popular culture. A belief that anyone can become a reader at any age. A sense of humor. A passion to learn new things continuously. Ability to gain working knowledge of Whatcom County Library System's policies and procedures; ability to uphold intellectual freedom standards and Whatcom County Library System's commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Requires working knowledge of how to operate office machines and equipment, including copiers, printers, folding machines and paper cutters; knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, the Internet, e-mail systems, and file management in a networked environment. Requires the ability to speak, understand, and write English clearly and concisely. Requires Associate's Degree and one year or more of relevant library experience; or equivalent training, education and/or experience. Experience working with children and teens, and interest and knowledge of literature for young people strongly preferred. Requires physical and visual ability to utilize reference sources and to manipulate equipment. Work requires considerable physical effort in the handling of materials up to 40 pounds and/or continual standing or walking 85%+ of the time. The Whatcom County Library System will comply with any pandemic related state or federal mandates and any other COVID mitigation practices deemedappropriate now or in the future. 

The Whatcom County Library System values diversity and inclusion and we are interested in hiring candidates that are representative of the communities and patrons we serve.

New employees are subject to a CRC (criminal records check) per RCW 43.43.832.