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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.

Reference Assistant

POSITION AVAILABLE: Reference Assistant

SCHEDULE: Part-time position, non-exempt (20 hours per week). Available to work during normal Library hours, with some nights and weekends required.

DEADLINE: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but first consideration given to applications received by September 25, 2026.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: This position combines public service, reference and clerical responsibilities. The bulk of the job is spent working directly with patrons and helping them find information. Candidates should be comfortable using computers and technology to locate and access information. In this role individuals will develop a wide familiarity of all library procedures and policies, and must have the ability to interpret these to the public. In a more limited capacity, Reference Assistants will help plan and provide adult programming and provide coverage in the Computer Lab.  This position works with support from and under the direction of the Reference Librarian.

EDUCATION/REQUIREMENTS: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is required. Candidates should have excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong organizational and clerical abilities and a demonstrated commitment to providing courteous, patient and effective public service to a diverse community. Applicants should be comfortable using computers, common software applications, the Internet and digital technology; with the ability to learn and effectively use library databases, electronic resources, equipment and emerging technologies. The ability to exercise sound judgment, work independently, interpret and communicate policies clearly and seek assistance when appropriate is essential. Previous customer service experience is preferred, as is experience providing reference or reader’s advisory or adult programming.

BENEFITS: Benefits package includes a monthly accrual of sick and personal leave, a yearly accrual of two weeks vacation and ten paid holidays per year; health, dental, and vision insurance available at COBRA rates.

Starting Salary:  $15.5915/hr to start; guaranteed increase to $16.05 within six weeks of employment.

APPLICATION: Applications are available at the library, 1901 E. 20th St., or download an application at www.joplinpubliclibrary.org/LibraryApp.pdf

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Samantha Monk at (417) 623-7953 ext. x1046, or email smonk@joplinpubliclibrary.org

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.