Substitute Library Assistant (Various)

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. 

The pay range listed above is effective July 1, 2026.

Arlington County’s Public Library is seeking Substitute Library Assistants to support permanent staff in providing service to patrons of all ages and backgrounds at various locations. These positions help the public with circulation requests, technology assistance, and information about the library’s collections, programs, and policies.

Specific duties include:

• Performing circulation tasks, including issuing library cards, placing items on reserve, locating materials, assessing fines, and processing payments;
• Assisting patrons with technology services, such as navigating the library catalog, accessing electronic resources, and using digital tools;
• Responding to inquiries about library facilities, coordinating the use of computer and audiovisual equipment for meeting rooms, and troubleshooting issues with public computers, copiers, and printers;
• Providing information on library programs, equipment availability, and facility usage across the library system;
• Interviewing and assisting patrons in selecting physical and digital materials, and answering questions about collections, services, and resources;
• Supporting collection management, including re-shelving materials, preparing shelving carts, identifying lost or damaged items, and completing circulation reports accurately;
• Helping maintain a safe and welcoming environment by enforcing library policies and assisting with opening and closing procedures; and
• Participating in library initiatives, including systemwide programs, committees, and meetings as assigned.

The ideal candidate will have the following:

• An eagerness to learn and problem-solve;
• Commitment to offering excellent customer service to all library users;
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, understand and focus on library systemwide and County priorities, work successfully within a team, and communicate effectively;
• Awareness of current trends in public libraries and technology; and
• Ability to make sustainability-conscious workplace decisions.ly according to standard procedures and/or instructions.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate degree or two years of college coursework from an accredited college or university in a related field; and 
• Some library experience providing customer service that includes resolving patron problems, explaining policies and procedures, providing information, and processing materials in a library environment. 

Substitution: Additional direct-facing customer service experience may be substituted for up to two years of experience in library procedures. 

Desirable: Preference may be given to applicants with experience in one or more of the following: 

• Previous library experience within the past 5 years;
• Handling money, running a cash register, and creating deposits;
• Troubleshooting with eBooks, tablets, public computers, and printers; and/or
• Working with diverse populations, including some with limited English ability.

Special Requirements

Background Check: A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It will include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You will be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.

Please complete each section of the application including the supplemental questions. Your responses to the supplemental questions are required because they provide us with specific information necessary to evaluate your qualifications for this position. These responses are considered part of the selection process. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please do not write "see resume" as a response to the questions.

Additional Information 

Location and hours of work: Schedules vary in days and hours of work, from a few hours to up to 20 per week. Evening and weekend hours can be expected. Assignment location varies between Central and the branch libraries.

Must be able to push heavy book carts, lift 25 lbs., and stand for extended periods of time. 

Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.

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