Full Time Public Safety Specialist

Title: Full Time Public Safety Specialist (NY H.E.L.P.S.)

Classification: Community Engagement Clerk

Location: Howe Branch

Reports to: Head of Public Safety

Updated: 3/17/2026

General Statement of Duties: This position is responsible for ensuring a safe and enjoyable library environment. In general, this position responds to incidents of conflict in the library workplace and finds immediate solutions, including contacting appropriate authorities. Incumbent also acts as a community liaison and assists with various library programming. This position is under direct supervision of a librarian or other supervisory library staff member with leeway permitted for the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the details of the work.

Typical Work Activities:

· Communicates and enforces the library’s Behavior Policy.

· Monitors library to ensure all patrons can enjoy a safe place to access materials and information.

· Support library staff when dealing with difficult patrons.

· Encourages patrons to exit buildings when not allowed in due to prescribed policy or banning.

· Mediates problem interactions between patrons or problem interactions between patrons and staff, and/or contacts the proper authorities.

· Serve as a positive role model for the library and community youth.

· Assists with programming to entertain, educate and engage library users of all ages.

· Assists with activities and events that support the personal, social, cultural and academic growth of young people.

· Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowldege, Skills and Abilities:

· Possess strong interpersonal skills.

· Represent the library in a positive and friendly manner.

· Knowledge of the neighborhood and community.

· Ability to de-escalate and resolve conflict.

· Ability to engage with visitors of all ages.

· Ability to perform both independently and as a team member.

· Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

· Demonstrate the ability to communicate emergencies to police and emergency personnel whenever required.

· Possesses and demonstrate emotional maturity.

· Demonstrates good judgement even in stressful situations.

· Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Minimum Qualifications:

· Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma.

Work Schedule: 37.5 hours per week including weekends, afternoon, and evening hours.

Monday- 12pm-8pm

Tuesday- 10am-6pm

Wednesday- 12pm-8pm

Thursday- 10am-6pm

Friday 10am-6pm

Starting Pay: $16.81 an hour

Deadline: April 3, 2026

Apply to: Send cover letter, resume and 3 professional references including email addresses to:

Human Resources

hr@albanypubliclibrary.org

Albany Public Library is an AA/EO institution and is strongly and actively committed to increasing diversity within its organization.

Pay: $16.81 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid jury duty
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person