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Library Assistant - Half Time

City of Decatur, IL
City of Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL, USA

Posted on Jul 23, 2026
Apply now

Job Summary

There is currently one half-time position available in the Programs, Resources and Services division.

If you're passionate about connecting people with information, lifelong learning, and community resources, the Decatur Public Library offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day. Join our team in this half-time Library Assistant position, where you'll assist patrons of all ages, support engaging library programs, and help create a welcoming environment that inspires curiosity and learning.

Position Overview

This entry-level para-professional position supports a variety of public library services. In this role, you will:

  • Assist patrons and provide excellent customer service.
  • Perform advanced clerical, technical, and library support duties.
  • Help support the day-to-day operations of the library.
  • Work in different areas of the library as operational needs require.

Qualifications:

  • A bachelor's degree is required.
  • Previous para-professional library experience is not required.

Key Responsibilities

Examples of Work (typical work examples, but not limited to the following):

Work may vary depending on the department designated.

  1. Assists in standard departmental work operations; assists in professional services work in the absence of superiors; provides patron assistance at various public service desks and via telephone.
  2. Assists patrons in selection of library materials; assists patrons in the use of the on-line catalog, Internet/database computers, microfilm readers, copy machines and other equipment.
  3. Provides patron computer assistance; prepares and presents instructional classes for public/staff on computer related topics as assigned.
  4. Assists with library program and event planning.
  5. Reads review publications for materials selection; searches subject choices on the computer; prepares book reviews and lists; uses library vendor software to enter materials orders.
  6. Takes reserves and inter-library loan requests; provides verification information on titles, price, authors and related matters.
  7. Shelves materials such as microfilm and reference collection as directed.
  8. Collects printer/copier fees; maintains files and records on problem patrons as directed.
  9. Assists in the preparation of book displays; assists patrons on the use of library facilities.
  10. Maintains and prepares appropriate statistical and activity reports.
  11. Moves large amounts of materials/equipment to and from vehicles and within the library building as directed by supervisor.
  12. Interviews potential home service patrons, selects and delivers materials for deposit sites and home bound patrons; works closely with volunteers to coordinate deliveries.
  13. Conducts story hours and/or other library programs; participates in training activities for school children.
  14. Performs related work and duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Preferred Skills

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  1. Considerable knowledge of books, authors and book publications.
  2. Some knowledge of principles and practices of library science.
  3. Some knowledge of office practices and procedures.
  4. Knowledge of the Dewey Decimal library classification system.
  5. Ability to learn the library's automated computer system/catalog and stay current with related updates and procedures.
  6. Ability to learn library clerical processes and para-professional work assignments within a reasonable period of time.
  7. Ability to prepare standardized library statistical and activity reports.
  8. Ability to work independently, which may require independent study at home, under limited supervision after a period of training.
  9. Ability to follow moderately complex oral and written instructions.
  10. Ability to lift and carry boxes of library materials.
  11. Ability to deal with the public and employees in general and difficult work situations.
  12. Ability to work well with patrons of all ages.
  13. Ability to work evening and/or weekend hours as required.
  14. Ability to perform repetitive motion tasks with full range of mobility.
  15. Must have adequate eyesight, depth perception, and color vision to perform duties.
  16. Must be able to work in the following environments: inside and outside with temperature variations; with noise and vibrations; and with adequate ventilation meeting all relevant safety regulations.
  17. Must be able to turn, balance, push, handle, reach, stoop, and stand for extended periods of time.

Required Training and Experience

  • Graduation with a B.A./B.S. from an accredited university, preferably with specialization in the social sciences.

  • Some experience in general library work is preferred.

More Details

Examination Process

All portions of the selection process must be completed and will consist of the following:

  1. Written Examination: All applicants must take the written examination. Applicants are required to score at least 70.00% on the written examination.
  2. Oral Interview: All applicants passing the written examination will be invited for an oral interview. Applicants are required to score at least 70.00% on the oral interview in order to be placed on the register.
  3. Veteran Points: Eligible veterans who pass the written exam and oral interview may receive 5.0 veteran preference points added to their final score in accordance with State of Illinois and City of Decatur Civil Service laws.
The Decatur Public Library is a drug free workplace. This includes marijuana. Candidates will be subject to a pre-employment drug screen, physical and background check post-offer.

Persons passing all phases of the selection process will be placed on a Civil Service eligible register which will be used for a period of two years or until exhausted. Selection of candidates will be made in accordance with the Civil Service Rules.

Residency Requirement

Employees hired after May 1, 2017 must meet the following residency requirements:

  • You may live outside the required residency area when you are hired.
  • You must establish residency within 90 days after successfully completing your six-month probationary period.
  • For your first five years of employment, you must live within the corporate limits of the City of Decatur.
  • After your first five years, you must live within Macon County or within 15 miles of the City of Decatur's corporate limits.

Important: A Decatur mailing address does not necessarily mean your home is within the City of Decatur's corporate limits. If you have questions about whether an address meets the residency requirement, please contact Human Resources at 217-424-2805.


To Apply:

Ready to help connect your community with knowledge and opportunity? Apply today to join the Decatur Public Library team and build a rewarding career serving the public in a collaborative, community-focused environment.

Complete the online application using the link below and include all requested relevant information. Incomplete applications will be rejected. While uploading a resume may prefill portions of the application, it does not replace the requirement to complete all sections of the application.

Apply now
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