Library Public Service Associate II

Requisition ID: 43571

About the Vancouver Public Library

Vancouver Public Library is a place where learning, joy, community, and recreation (see also: fun) come together. This is where we introduce people to the books and information that could change their lives and where everyone is truly welcome.

We are the third largest public library system in Canada, with more than 800 staff members offering services at 21 locations across the city. We lend over 5 million items per year to our community, including books, streaming content, musical instruments, and more. Nearly 200,000 people attend our programs and events to learn, be inspired, and connect with others around important ideas.

We are looking for positive people with excellent customer service skills, who can confidently and respectfully deliver library services to our incredibly diverse communities.  We are constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of the public; being adaptable and open to learning will help you as you start your career with VPL.

Does this sound like you?  This innovative, inclusive, and rewarding workplace could be the next step in your career journey, so reach out to us today.

Worksite: these positions are at our Carnegie Branch, which is located in the Downtown Eastside at 401 Main Street (inside the Carnegie Community Centre).

About the Job

Library Public Service Assistant IIs (“LPSA II”) staff VPL’s service desks, checking in and out items, assisting patrons in the use of VPL’s website and apps,  and answering questions to help patrons in a friendly and welcoming way.  They provide basic reader’s advisory by referring to VPL’s collection and assist patrons in the use of VPL’s computers and printers.

LPSA IIs provide direction and guidance to clerical staff, particularly in the absence of a direct supervisor.  LPSAs also schedule branch staff on a daily basis, and track their time worked to ensure payroll accuracy.

The library welcomes people from all walks of life. We deliver friendly, respectful and responsive service for everyone, regardless of their income, housing situation, or background. A genuine desire to help people will be a great asset in this role!

Other duties will involve sorting and shelving books and other resources which requires the ability to lift and handle a high volume of physical items during a shift, and to stand, reach, bend, and move around the library comfortably for long periods of time. You will be part of a system that circulates over 5 million items per year!

LPSA IIs also assist in supporting our creative programs to the public.

NOTE: This is one job posting with multiple positions; therefore, please submit one application only. In your cover letter, please refer to which schedule(s) you are interested in.

Job Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Libraries are all about people. We want folks with excellent customer service skills and who come to work with patience, warmth, and curiosity for other people. Not every interaction is easy; diplomacy, tact, and empathy are a must. Please highlight your skills, particularly with conflict de-escalation.
• Library work is very physical, with staff moving books and materials throughout the day. Physical movements such as bending, reaching, lifting, squatting, gripping and pushing book trucks are involved throughout a shift.  Experience with lifting and handling large volumes of orders/materials is necessary for this role.
• Some knowledge of the objectives, organization, procedures, services and resources of a public library is an asset, as is any prior experience you may have using library software.
• Having the ability to assess and implement new or revised work procedures and be open to change is important.
• Familiarity and comfort working with technology and handling multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment are also important, along with the ability to learn new technologies and applications as needed.
• Good team-building and leadership skills are important in order to provide direction and guidance to the clerical staff team.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. We are looking for people who are flexible and like working with others, showing kindness and being clear communicators when speaking with the public or writing an e-mail.
• We are looking for those who can plan, are organized, carry out assigned duties on time, fulfill commitments, and who take pride in doing good work.

Affiliation: CUPE 391
Employment Type: Posted Part-Time / Regular Full-Time
Salary: $27.04 to $31.66 per hour 
Work Schedule: 

Schedule 1 (Regular Full-Time):

Monday: 9:30am – 6:00pm
Tuesday: 11:40am – 8:10pm
Wednesday: 9:30am – 6:00pm
Thursday: 8:30am – 5:00pm (EDO Week 3)
Sunday: 8:40am – 5:10pm

Schedule 2 (Posted Part-Time, 22.5 Hours):

Monday: 11:40am – 8:10pm
Saturday: 8:40am – 5:10pm
Sunday: 8:40am – 5:10pm

Note: Work schedules may change with reasonable notice

Closing date: Monday, May 12th, 2025 at 11:59pm

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

As VPL is responsible for the well-being of its patrons, a Police Information Check clearance is a condition of employment. Please refer to our policy for further information. Personal information collected is used in accordance with the BC Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Representing the community we serve is a priority at VPL. We are always seeking ways to support equity, diversity and inclusion in our work, and we encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and identities to apply. Should you require an accommodation during the selection process, please provide details to the hiring committee if you are shortlisted.

As part of a City of Reconciliation, we seek to reflect and celebrate Indigenous cultures, language and history, particularly those of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil Waututh people.

While the Library thanks you in advance, only those candidates being considered will be contacted.