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:
This position is responsible for library services that include but are not limited to identifying and interpreting user needs; planning and implementing a variety of children’s programs to encourage library usage and to foster community relations; providing exceptional customer service, reference, and reader's advisory; and assisting Library patrons in the use of library services, facilities, and equipment. Leads literacy initiatives for the branch. Exemplify the high standards and expectations for the library system in its daily operations and services.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Provides direct supervision and management of the assigned staff, establishes goals and priorities
Plan, coordinate, and promote services and programs for children, including summer reading and other special events
Cultivates cooperative relationships with external stakeholders and actively participates in outreach to the community
Develop an engaging and attractive library collection through awareness of current children’s literature
Provides direct supervision and management of the assigned staff, establishes goals and priorities
Identifies information needs in the community and presents recommendations to the Branch Manager
Supervises the library in the absence of the Branch Manager
Attend staff meetings, activities, and professional conferences, and actively serve on committees
Implement knowledge of current trends in services and programs
Exemplify the high standards and expectations for the library system in its daily operations and services
Other duties as assigned
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email
ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.netThis position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.Education and Experience:
Master’s Degree in Library and Information Studies or related field from an accredited university or college
Two (2) years of library experience working in a variety of roles, displaying administrative, supervisory, and leadership skills in community engagement and planning, collection development and reference services, digital and Library technology, program management, and data analysis for the effectiveness of programs, services, and resources.
OR
Bachelor's Degree in a related field from an accredited college or university
Four (4) years of library experience working in a variety of roles, displaying administrative, supervisory, and leadership skills in community engagement and planning, collection development and reference services, digital and Library technology, program management, and data analysis for the effectiveness of programs, services, and resources.
OR
Associate degree in any field or 60 hours of secondary education credits from an accredited college or university
Seven (7) years of library experience working in a variety of roles, displaying administrative, supervisory, and leadership skills in community engagement and planning, collection development and reference services, digital and Library technology, program management, and data analysis for the effectiveness of programs, services, and resources.
OR
High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent
Nine (9) years of library experience working in a variety of roles, displaying administrative, supervisory, and leadership skills in community engagement and planning, collection development and reference services, digital and Library technology, program management, and data analysis for the effectiveness of programs, services, and resources.
Additional Requirements:
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Proficient with social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.)
Proficient with the Internet and Office 365
Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and foster teamwork in a diverse environment
Ability to work well with public and staff members
Ability to exercise initiative and act with discretion
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Must use your personal mobile device for our Multifactor Authentication process
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.
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
Full-Time | Regular – 40 hours a week
Typical shifts are day, evening, Night, Weekend, etc.
May require attending meetings, council sessions, or after-hours events and off-site meetings.
Work Environment:
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, and 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.
Physical Demands:
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: Branch Manager
Supervises Positions: Librarians, Library Specialists, and Library Technicians
Work Location:
Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.