Job Description
Salary: $18.16 Hourly
Location : City of Oconomowoc
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: LIB2026ASSISTPT1
Department: Library
Opening Date: 01/19/2026
Closing Date: 2/2/2026 10:00 AM Central
Description The Oconomowoc Public Library is currently accepting applications for a part-time Library Assistant. Current shifts are Tues. & Wed. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and one Monday evening shift. The position is also part of a Sat./Sun. weekend rotation. Schedule subject to change. Additional hours may be available in the future. Salary/Wage: Starting $18.16 per hour.
To be considered, please complete the online application and upload your resume by 10 a.m. on February 2, 2026. This position will remain open until it is filled, but we encourage you to apply soon, as the posting may close earlier if a qualified candidate applies and is selected.
Position Summary: The part-time library assistant plans, implements, and evaluates quality, research-based early literacy, and early learning library programming for families with children between the developmental stages of infancy through preschool.
Examples of Duties - Organizes and delivers weekly story times for preschool-aged children and their caregivers.
- Creates developmentally appropriate early childhood and family programs aligned with the library's mission statement.
- Under the supervision of the Youth Services Librarian, assists with preparing, publicizing, presenting, implementing, and clean-up of events for children and families.
- Maintains and evaluates the library's 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Reading Program.
- Serves library patrons by answering reference questions, providing reader's advisory, resolving patron problems, and providing guidance in use of information resources during regularly scheduled reference desk shifts.
- Assists patrons with use of library equipment, including microfilm, internet, computers, photocopier, scanner, printer, and coin-operated print release station.
- Acts as staff member in charge when working evenings and weekends, and monitors patron behavior, addressing any problems in a firm but respectful manner.
- Serves as back-up shift coverage at reference desk and youth services programs in case of staff illness or absence.
- Maintains order in the children's areas of the library.
- Prepares displays that feature and emphasize themes being presented.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Typical Qualifications Education and Experience: - Bachelor's degree in early childhood education, childcare, child development, or a related required. Master's degree in library science from an ALA-accredited college or university or currently enrolled in an ALA-accredited MLIS program desirable.
- Experience working with young children in a professional setting (ex. day care, summer camps, preschool teacher, teacher's assistant, etc.) required.
- Equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered.
Special Requirements: - Reliable transportation for timely and punctual attendance.
Supplemental Information - Considerable knowledge of child development and early learning and literacy practices.
- Some knowledge of children's books and story time practices.
- Knowledge of and willingness to follow and enforce Library policies and procedures.
- Considerable knowledge of online and print reference resources.
- Self-motivated to stay updated on the evolving needs and practices of child development, early learning and literacy, and family issues, especially in a library setting.
- Creative in motivating young children and families to explore the world of reading.
- Ability to communicate well, both orally and in writing, with children and patrons of all ages
- Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective, positive working relationships with patrons, coworkers, supervisors, other agencies, and the public.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Ability to organize and prioritize workload and work efficiently.
- Ability to effectively operate Library computers and related cataloging software.
- Comfort with computers and other technology, including e-readers, cell phones (both Android and Apple operating systems) and other personal electronic devices.
- Proficient keyboarding, filing, basic math, and alphabetizing skills.
- Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
- Ability to remain calm and work under pressure when needed.
- Ability to work independently and with a team.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of information handled.
- Ability to attend mandatory reference and youth services staff meetings.
- Ability to work the shifts as scheduled, including weekends and evenings.
For any questions, issues, or accomodation with your application or position applying for, please contact Human Resources at 262-569-3225. This position is not eligible for benefits. Please note, working for a municipality, even without benefits, offers unique and valuable experiences. The opportunity to serve the citizens of Oconomowoc and surrounding communities can be rewarding. Additionally, the experience and connections you make can open doors to future opportunities, both within the public sector and beyond.
01
What is your experience level working with young children (infants through preschool years)? Please select the response below that best fits your experience level.
- No/Limited Experience (1 year or less)- I have limited experience working with infants through preschool but willing to learn.
- Some Experience (1 to 3 years)- I have some experience working with infants through preschool.
- Experienced (3 years plus)- I have a good amount of experience working with infants through preschool.
02
Please briefly provide 2 reasons why the position is a good fit for you? No more than 2 to 3 sentences.
03
Briefly describe your experience working with infants to preschool age children. If no experience, write "not applicable."
04
Do you possess a BA degree or similar in early childhood, childcare, child development, or similar?
05
Do you possess a Masters of Library Science (MLS) degree? Desired but not required.
06
Hours Desired- If hired, the total hours is approximately 20 hours per week. Please check the box that best describes the hours you need and/or desire.
- Good Fit- Hours of the Position Match My Desired Hours
- Good Fit- But I Desire and/or Need Additional Part-Time Hours
- Good Fit-But I Desire and/or Need Less Hours
- Good Fit For Now- But I Desire and/or Will Need Full Time Work in the Future
07
Have you visited the Oconomowoc Public Library in the past 12 months?
08
How do you view this position and how will it serve your career or job goals? Select the answer that is best suited for your career goals.
- I see this position as a long-term opportunity where I can grow and contribute to the success of the organization while developing my skills.
- I view this role as a chance to gain experience and learn, but I may explore other opportunities in the future as my career evolves.
- I am interested in this position primarily for short-term employment or to gain specific experience before moving on to other goals.
- I am still exploring my career path and see this role as a way to better understand the industry and where I fit in.
09
This position is part-time, offers modest pay, and no benefits. Considering your home location and the commute required, do you believe this job will be practical and sustainable for you in the long term? Please briefly describe your commute (distance, estimated time, and transportation method) and explain why you feel it will work for you.
10
If hired, are there any dates and/or times within the next 12 months in which you are not available to work (ex. pre-planned vacation, etc.)? Please respond "Yes" or "No". If yes, please provide dates and times.
Required Question
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time, Temporary work, Summer work, Shift work, Afternoon shift,