Branch Outreach and Programming Specialist (B.O.P.S.)- 40 hrs./wk.

Branch Outreach and Programming Specialist (B.O.P.S.)- 40 hrs./wk.

Salary

$27.09 Hourly

Location

2650 5-Mile Rd. NE, Grand Rapids, MI

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

00718

Department

Plainfield Township Branch

Opening Date

06/23/2026

Closing Date

7/7/2026 5:00 PM Eastern

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Bargaining Unit

UN

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Performed under the general direction of the Regional Manager I, the Branch Outreach and Programming Specialist (BOPS) is responsible for ensuring that branch outreach and programming for their designated regional branches align with system strategic goals and standards.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Coordinates the planning, organizing and implementation of library programs and special projects that meet the community needs, including underserved communities, as assigned.
• Develops, plans, presents and evaluates programs; networks with community groups and develops partnerships; and prepares materials advisory resources and reports.
• Provides outreach to underserved communities by providing services to aid special needs populations in collaboration with centralized Outreach; initiates and maintains community contacts.
• Participates in the formation, development, and implementation of goals in regards to branch outreach and programming for branches in accordance with the library's strategic plan; tracks statistics and prepares grant requests.
• Mentors staff by sharing information, coordinating programs, making recommendations, visiting branches and attending meetings.
• Pursues professional development by serving on KDL committees and attending workshops and conferences to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills of pertinent library policies, procedures and technology.
• Participates in professional organizations; shares information by networking, teaching colleagues, leading workgroups and preparing group presentations in the community and at local, state and national conferences as applicable.
• Assists patrons in their search for library materials; provides materials advisory and reference interview services as needed, by utilizing ILS, print sources, KDL electronic databases and internet online tools with proficiency.
• Effectively facilitates access to KDL's digital collection by providing demonstrations of and assistance with multiple format e-reader devices.
• Provides circulation services to patrons, as operations require.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• This job requires a Master's degree in Library Science or related/relevant field, or Bachelor's Degree plus 5 years relevant experience, or high school diploma plus 10 years applicable experience, with at least five of the ten in successful relevant service at Kent District Library.
• One to two years of professional librarian work experience.
• Successful experience working with children and young adults. Knowledge of children's materials and programming is preferred.
• Library of Michigan Professional Certificate.
• Ability to travel between work locations and related places of business as needed.
• Working knowledge and understanding of the principles, methods and practices of public library operations, including search methods, reader's advisory and reference interviews. Incumbent is also required to acquire knowledge of the policies and procedures of Kent District Library.
• Considerable knowledge of available circulating materials and basic reference sources.
• Working knowledge of public library computer hardware and software applications and how to access and search them.
• Ability to work under general supervision with latitude in exercising independent judgment and discretion subject to Library policies, procedures and professional practices.
• Interpersonal and communication skills necessary to plan and coordinate programs and activities. The incumbent is also required to interact with various library staff and patrons in an effective and courteous manner. Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Analytical ability to interpret community interests and needs and identifies opportunities for improvement.
• Visual acuity and physical skills necessary to retrieve library materials from shelves and storage areas, maintain library materials and operate equipment. The incumbent is required to have the physical ability to push/pull fully loaded book carts and lift/carry materials weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Hearing ability to answer telephone and patron inquiries.
• Computer skills necessary to effectively access information on the computer.
• Ability to operate a variety of library equipment including a computer, fax and copy machine.

Additional Information

• Generally will work within a normal office environment, with minimal discomfort due to extreme temperatures, dust, and noise.
• Requires occasional travel between KDL locations, and may include out of county travel for meetings and conferences.
• Work hours are varied, including evenings and weekend hours. The person in this role will need to work the following schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Every fourth week: off Friday and works Saturday, 8:45 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Primarily based at the Plainfield Branch; works at the Comstock Park Branch on Wednesdays.
• Frequent sitting/standing in one position for extended periods of time.

Kent District Library has received the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation's highest honor given for making significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. Kent District Library was one of five public library award recipients, representing institutions that provide dynamic programming and services that exceed expected levels of service to bring about change that touches the lives of individuals and helps communities thrive.

To learn more about working at Kent District Library, check out our video:

Behind the Scenes @ KDL

Statement on the Use of Pre-Employment Assessments in Evidence-Based Selection Hiring

Kent District Library is committed to the use of evidence-based selection hiring practices to ensure the recruitment of highly qualified candidates. As part of this commitment, we utilize pre-employment assessments that are scientifically validated and job-related. These assessments are designed to objectively evaluate candidates skills, abilities, and potential for success in specific roles.

Legal Compliance:

• Non-Discrimination: All pre-employment assessments used by our organization comply with federal anti-discrimination laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). We ensure that these assessments do not disproportionately exclude individuals based on race, color, sex, national origin, religion, disability, or age.
• Job-Relatedness: Our assessments are developed and validated to measure skills and traits that are directly related to the job requirements. This alignment with job duties is in accordance with the Uniform Guidelines on Employee Selection Procedures (UGESP), which provide interpretive guidelines to ensure equitable and non-discriminatory hiring practices.
• Objectivity and Fairness: By using professionally developed and validated assessments, we enhance the objectivity and fairness of our hiring process. This reduces the likelihood of unconscious bias and increases the accuracy of hiring decisions.

Evidence-Based Approach:

• Data-Driven Decisions: Our selection process relies on measurable data, such as performance metrics and structured interview results, rather than intuition. This approach ensures that hiring decisions are based on objective, verifiable evidence.
• Continuous Improvement: We regularly review and update our assessment tools to ensure they remain valid and reliable. This ongoing evaluation helps us maintain high standards in our hiring practices and adapt to evolving job requirements.

By adhering to these principles, our organization strives to create a fair, equitable, and legally defensible hiring process that attracts and retains top talent.

Pre-Employment Assessment Notice

To ensure a fair and equitable hiring process, pre-employment assessments are proctored and must be completed independently. Applicants may not use phones, other electronic devices, reference materials, or receive assistance from another person at any time during the assessment.

Assessments may require access to your camera, microphone, and screen for monitoring purposes, as outlined in the attached proctoring information.

If you are unable to secure a quiet, private location or meet the proctoring requirements, please contact the Kent District Library Human Resources Department at HumanResourcesEmail@kdl.org before starting your assessment to discuss possible accommodations.

Failure to follow these requirements will void your application.

The library employment environment typically requires extensive computer keyboard and mouse activity, in-person, electronic and telephone communication skills. Meeting attendance at various branch and service center locations is expected; self-identified mode of transportation is required. The preparation, loading and carrying or moving of materials is commonly required for all KDL positions. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Recruiting and hiring practices are based solely on job-related criteria. If you require assistance or special accommodations during any part of the application process, contact the Human Resources Department at humanresourcesemail@kdl.org or 616-784-2226.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person assigned to this job. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties that may be performed by a person so classified.

Kent District Library

Full-time Employee Benefit Summary

Medical Insurance

PPO/HSA Plan - KDL pays 80% of the cost

Complimentary generic prescription drug program - KDL pays 100% of the cost

Supplemental Accident, Critical Illness & Hospitalization Plans - KDL pays 100% of the cost

24/7 Patient Advocacy Service provided to employee and their family for assistance in times of uncertainty and to save on the personal cost of healthcare services.

Dental Insurance

KDL pays 100% of the cost

Vision Insurance

KDL pays 100% of the cost

Paid Time Off

Vacation, Paid Holidays, Sick Leave and Floating Holidays

Retirement Plan

457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan & 401(a) Match Plan

Student Loan Paydown Plan

Up to $3600 available to help pay down your student loans

Employee Assistance Center

24/7 assistance available to provide confidential mental health assistance

to employee at no cost

01

I am seeking:

• Temporary or Seasonal Employment
• Ongoing, Regular Employment

02

Please indicate your education/experience related to this role:

• Masters degree in Library Science or related/relevant field
• Bachelors Degree plus 5 years relevant experience
• High school degree plus 10 years applicable experience, with at least five of the ten in successful service as Assistant Branch Librarian at Kent District Library
• None of the above

03

How many years of experience do you have working in a customer service capacity?

• None
• Less than 1 year
• 1-3 years
• More than 3 years

04

Are you able to work the schedule posted with this role? Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Every fourth week: off Friday and works Saturday, 8:45 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Primarily based at the Plainfield Branch; works at the Comstock Park Branch on Wednesdays.

• Yes
• No

05

How many years of experience do you have in professional library work?

• None
• Less than 1 year
• 1-3 years
• More than 3 years

06

How many years of experience do you have in working with children and young adults?

• None
• Less than 1 year
• 1-3 years
• More than 3 years

07

I understand this is a union represented position and the wage is determined by the collective bargaining agreement. The starting wage for this role is $27.09 and this is the rate of pay I will be offered should I be selected for this role.

• Yes
• No

08

What about this particular position inspired you to apply for the role?

09

If offered this position what date would you be able to start in this role?

10

I have provided a valid email address for each person listed as a reference. References that do not have valid email addresses will not be contacted. Please note: References will not be requested unless you are asked to interview for this position. A minimum of 3 reference feedback reports are required to proceed with an interview.

• Yes
• No

11

I have provided a valid email address and understand it is my responsibility to monitor this email account for pre-employment testing and interview opportunities. I also acknowledge that correspondence received through NEOGOV may be sent to a junk mail or spam account and I will monitor those accounts accordingly.

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer Kent District Library

Address 814 West River Center NE

Comstock Park, Michigan, 49321

Phone (616) 784-2226

Website https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/kdl