Full-Time Early Literacy Associate - Smithville

Job Title: Early Literacy Associate Location: Smithville, MO Job Id: 2372 Branch or Department: Customer Experience Reports to: Branch Management FLSA Status: Overtime Non‑exempt Benefits Classification: Full‑time Salary/Wage: $19.28 per hour Work Schedule: Requires Wednesday Evening availability and one weekend per month. Position Overview The Early Literacy Associate is responsible for providing excellent customer service, working at the information desk, and delivering library services to early learners (birth through age 5). This includes creating displays, programming storytime, and partnering with schools and community partners. Essential Functions Provide customer service in person and over the phone. Guide customers to library resources and demonstrate technology usage. Recommend materials based on customers' interests and needs. Assist with library card accounts and processing payments. Deliver materials outdoors to customers who request curbside delivery. Provide library service to early learners: Act as the branch expert for early learner customer service. Understand early literacy and provide reader’s advisory for young children. Plan, present, and evaluate programs that combine fun and learning. Host story times, early literacy fairs, and external presenters. Maintain records and report branch activity. Coordinate and implement reading initiatives. Monitor collection needs and display opportunities. Outreach to daycares, schools, and community organizations. Apply child and adolescent development theory to service delivery. Maintain the library collection: Process materials for customer access. Shelve items correctly and efficiently. Straighten and arrange items to ensure a neat appearance. Non‑Essential Functions This position could develop into a shift‑lead role. Education and Experience High School Diploma, Hi‑Set, or GED – required. Customer service experience – preferred. Minimum 2 years of relevant experience working with youth – preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Effective verbal, written, and discreet communication with management, co‑workers, and the public. Team‑work and collaboration. Knowledge of department processes and critical thinking for decision‑making. Friendly, solution‑oriented customer service attitude. Respectful workplace and commitment to intellectual freedom. Follow instructions, reliability, punctuality, and scheduling flexibility. Good communication skills, calm under pressure. Adaptability to fast‑paced environments. Age Requirement Must be at least 18 years of age. MVR Requirement None. Physical Abilities Daily (greater than 50% of the time): standing (up to 1 hour), kneeling, reaching above shoulder, use of computer data entry tools. Frequently (up to 50% of the time): standing (more than 1 hour), walking on variable surfaces, lifting up to 40 pounds, pushing/pulling up to 40 pounds, sitting, and bending/stooping. Occasionally (1–2 times per month): climbing stepstools or ladders, lifting 26–40 pounds. Rarely (1–5 times per year): lifting over 40 pounds, climbing stepstools or ladders. Work Environment Indoor and outdoor work – tolerance for weather, dust, mold, scents, allergens, and communicable diseases. Interaction with coworkers and the public in older buildings and job sites. Policy of Non‑Discrimination All applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected class in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. If an applicant requires accommodation, please contact Mid‑Continent Public Library Human Resources at View phone number on click.appcast.io. Legal Notice Applications are considered on the merits of skills and experience. Employment offers are contingent upon a criminal records check, identity verification, and national sex offender registry check. Applicants will not be denied employment solely because of a prior conviction unless it is job‑related. If a background check finds information of concern, the applicant will be given an opportunity to review and present information regarding inaccuracies, mitigating circumstances, and rehabilitation. #J-18808-Ljbffr Mid-Continent Public Library