Position Type:
Professionals
Date Posted:
3/11/2026
Location:
Public Library
Date Available:
TBD
Closing Date:
03/31/2026
The Town of West Hartford
Announces an Open Competitive Examination
For the Position of
LIBRARY SPECIALIST
APPLICATIONS WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED ELECTRONICALLY
Application Deadline: Salary Range:
March 31, 2026, 11:59pm $61,516 - $76,206 annually
Job Purpose:
With minimal direction, does library functions such as selecting, ordering, and cataloguing books and related library materials, and provides library services to users; does related work as required.
Essential Job Functions:
Orients patrons to the library through the introduction of available services and by locating and recommending library materials.
Instructs in the selection and use of appropriate tools and techniques for finding information, conducts searches for materials
Assists patrons with topical research utilizing the tools available (including online catalog, databases, reference materials, etc.) Refers more in-depth questions to Librarians.
Assists patrons with use of library resources and equipment
Provides access to materials, services and programs to meet needs of diverse users (adult and children)
Develops programming for library users (age-appropriate)
Performs general circulation duties as needed.
Reserves books and processes interlibrary loans.
Does the work involved in ordering, checking, purchasing, classifying, cataloguing, preparing, binding, and shelving books and other library materials
Provides original cataloging and assigns classification numbers to library materials; resolves conflicts in the card catalog and automated system.
Promotes reading through the development and implementation of children's' and parents' programs, including story hours, outreach with schools, community organizations and agencies.
Maintains library collection through the routine inspection and discarding of dated and damaged materials.
Recommends and orders library materials by reading reviews and/or previewing media.
Independently researches and resolves problems.
Collects, compiles and assembles statistics.
Assists in the coordination of work schedules.
Trains, assigns and monitors work progress of subordinate staff.
Intervenes on behalf of subordinate clerical staff to resolve customer complaints.
Assumes supervision for division in absence of librarian.
Researches, analyzes, and completes special projects as requested
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Ability to interact with the public and employees in a courteous and professional manner.
Ability to deal with disruptive patrons and emergency situations
Skill in resolving confidential/sensitive situations.
Ability to prioritize and organize tasks; coordinate and plan assignments or projects.
Knowledge of library mission, basic local library policies and procedures.
Knowledge of departments and services of the library, also library personnel and hierarchy
Knowledge of library's circulation system and public access catalog
Knowledge of library's participation in consortiums, networks, or other resource-sharing organizations
Ability to understand and demonstrate customer service philosophy
Ability to identify business problems and implement approved methods and procedures.
Ability to manage and supervise subordinate staff.
Knowledge of appropriate methods and techniques for materials processing, storage and preservation
Knowledge of interlibrary loan procedures and policies
Knowledge of the ethics and values of the profession, including an understanding of the Library Bill of Rights, the ALA Code of Ethics, freedom of information, confidentiality of library records, and privacy issues
Ability to introduce users to all library services and equipment, and provide advanced instruction if needed
Knowledge of cataloging and classification.
Knowledge of literature appropriate to a specific division: such as children, adult, media, reference, etc.
Knowledge of reader's advisory issues and resources
Knowledge of new developments in library services and products through reading and networking
Ability to handle multiple tasks at one time
Knowledge of database operating systems and procedures
Work Environment:
Work is performed in a public service area, or office setting which is subject to interruptions and background noise. Performs varied functions requiring judgment to ensure compliance with applicable departmental and town policies, procedures and methods.
Must be mobile, able to push/pull light objects and lift objects up to 30 pounds. Must be able to stand or sit for prolonged periods. Must be able to perform such tasks as writing, filing, keyboarding, using a calculator, and skills which require hand-eye coordination.
May be in constant contact with employees and the general public. Must be able to concentrate on fine details with occasional interruption and remember multiple assignments. Must be able to communicate in English and be understood clearly; hearing requirements include the ability to effectively interact with customers in person or by telephone.
May be exposed to dust, fluctuations in inside temperatures and electro-magnetic radiation as in computer screens.
Minimum Qualifications:
High School graduate plus minimum of four years of related experience (demonstrated practical knowledge of library functions, services, terminology, techniques, procedures, and standard tools); or an LTA certificate and/or four (4) years of college (undergraduate degree preferred in related discipline) with some library experience.
The above description is intended as illustration of the various types of work that may be performed and are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. It is intended as a guide for personnel actions and must not be taken as a complete itemization of all facets of any job. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
Method of Selection:
Weight Passing Score
Oral Board Examination 100% 70
The Town reserves the right to limit the number of qualified candidates invited to participate in any portion of the selection process. Candidates must achieve a passing score of seventy (70) on the oral examination in order to have their name placed on the Eligible List for this position. An individual appointed to the position must satisfactorily complete a six (6) month probationary period.
Application Process
The Application for Employment may be accessed from the Town of West Hartford website at
www.westhartfordct.gov under "Jobs". Your resume and letter of interest may be linked to your application. All application materials must be received by the application deadline.
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
It is the policy of the Town of West Hartford that discrimination in any way on the basis race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity/expression, marital status, citizenship, veteran status, military/veteran status, political belief, criminal record, disability or any other protected status in accordance with the requirements and any exceptions under applicable state or federal law toward employees is strictly prohibited and will be not be tolerated.
The above description is intended as illustration of the various types of work that may be performed and are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. It is intended as a guide for personnel actions and must not be taken as a complete itemization of all facets of any job. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
The Town of West Hartford provides reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you need an accommodation on the application or testing process, please contact the Human Resources Department at 860-561-7488 or email Alan Horner.
Individuals who do not have access to a computer or need assistance completing an online application may visit the Noah Webster Library or its branches for access and assistance.
AH 03/11/2026