Jobs at the Des Moines Public Library

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Job Title: Library Aide
• Department: Customer Services
• Location: Franklin Avenue Library
• Position Type: Part-time
• Wage/Salary: $13.57/hour
• Posting Expires: ​​February 6, 2026​ 

SUMMARY

Under the direction of a supervisor, sorts, shelves, and organizes library materials, assists at the public service desk, and performs related work as required.  This position requires regular evening and weekend hours. In addition, we are looking for library aides who are dependable, friendly, punctual, and who work well with library staff and the public. This is not a temporary position. We are looking for employees who are dedicated to the library and can commit to the position long- term.  

*Weekend hours required  

*8-12 hours per week 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Checks in, sorts, shelves, and files all library materials 

• Empties book returns 

• Processes daily branch delivery 

• Shelf reads and shifts library collections 

• Generates lists to find library materials 

• Performs opening, closing, and cleanup procedures Shovels snow, waters plants, picks up trash, sets up room for events, and other light maintenance duties as assigned 

• Operates a variety of office equipment such as a PC, printer, and copier 

• Attends meetings and participates in training sessions  

• Helps with other duties as assigned 

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL ABILITIES

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. on a frequent basis. 

• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing, with or without reasonable accommodation, to be able to communicate effectively. 

• Sufficient vision, with or without reasonable accommodation, to be able to produce and review a wide variety of reports and related materials in both electronic and hard copy form. 

• Sufficient manual dexterity, with or without reasonable accommodation, to be able to access relevant library materials and operate a keyboard. 

• Sufficient mobility, with or without reasonable accommodation, to be able to transport materials and equipment. 

• Sufficient mobility to be able to push and pull loaded book carts; bend, reach and kneel; and utilize a step stool 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Ability to work quickly and with 100% accuracy. 

• Ability to follow oral and written instructions. 

• Ability to interpret and apply a wide variety of library policies and procedures. 

• Skill in operating various types of library equipment and technology 

• Ability to communicate with staff and patrons in a courteous and professional manner. 

• Ability to spell, use correct grammar, and make simple mathematical calculations. 

• Ability to alphabetize and file using the Dewey Decimal Classification. 

• Ability to provide outstanding customer service to internal customers, and if necessary, to external customers.  

• Dependably works assigned schedule without direct supervision. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Graduation from middle school.  Must be sixteen years of age.  

APPLICATION INFORMATION

Send resume, letter of application, and unofficial transcripts to:
Eric Axness

• Email: ejaxness@dmpl.org  
• Mail: 5000 Franklin Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50310