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Careers at the Joplin Public Library

Become a Part of Our Team

We often have part-time or volunteer positions available.

Adult Services Librarian

POSITION AVAILABLE: Adult Services Librarian/Head of Reference Department

SCHEDULE: Full‐time, exempt position (40 hours per week); requires some evening and weekend work.

DEADLINE: Applications will be accepted until position is filled, but first consideration given to applications received by April 22, 2026.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: A professional position that provides information and reference services; supports development and facilitation of programs for adults; assists with collection development; and interprets and enforces library policies. Requires supervisory abilities with a wide familiarity of library procedures and policies, and with library collections.  Oversees the Reference and Genealogy/Local History departments, including planning, coordinating, budgeting, reporting, and scheduling. Hires, trains and supervises a team of librarians and library assistants, participates in short- and long-range planning for adult services and the Library, and works closely with other department heads.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Master’s degree in library science from an ALA-accredited graduate program required, with a minimum of two years experience in relevant library work. Candidates must possess strong management, interpersonal, communication, and public relations skills. Along with a high clerical aptitude and excellent keyboard skills. This position is people-focused, so having excellent customer service skills is key. Must be able to swiftly adapt to new situations, changing roles, and diverse customer needs. A wide knowledge of books and authors and interest in a variety of subjects is necessary, plus, a working knowledge of library automation systems, basic computer programs, word processing, spreadsheets, and the Internet.

BENEFITS: We offer an excellent benefits package including: vacation, sick and personal leave, holiday pay; health, dental, life and vision insurance available; LAGERS pension; and employee assistance program.  Additional employee paid 457 retirement plan is also available.

SALARY RANGE: $60,038 – $66,287

APPLICATION: Applications available for pick up at the Library or download an application at www.joplinpubliclibrary.org/LibraryApp.pdf.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:  Jeana Gockley at (417) 623-7953; or email jgockley@joplinpubliclibrary.org.

The Joplin Public Library is an equal opportunity employer.

Become a

Volunteer

Volunteers are a valuable resource for public service organizations and we are grateful to our terrific volunteers who help support the Library. Volunteers generally straighten or shelve materials, perform clerical duties, clean toys, dust shelves, assist with program preparation, or work on other specially assigned projects.

If you are interested in volunteering with the Joplin Public Library please fill out our volunteer application by clicking the “Apply to Volunteer” button below. Library staff will review the application and contact you when a position is available.

Apply to Volunteer

The Friends of the Joplin Public Library also use the services of its volunteers/members to run a book sale and staff a Library welcome table.  If you’re interested in helping them, visit FriendsOfTheJPL.org.