Are you interested in a service-oriented career? Do you want to learn more about the Ames community? Ames Public Library has an opportunity for an intern in the Adult Services division who will work with team members to facilitate programs, reach out to the public to share information about the library, and work on special projects.

Candidates interested in this opportunity can expect to work 15-20 hours per week, including the potential for evening and weekend hours. Length of position expected to be August 2025 – December 2025, with the option to extend upon mutual agreement.

Under direction of the Adult Services Manager, supports the Ames Public Library’s programs. Assist and develop a variety of projects and programs as assigned.

In order to be considered for this position, all applicants must submit their online application by the deadline listed on this posting. Your application includes complete responses to the supplemental questions. Please keep in mind that submission of a resume in lieu of work history on your application or answering the supplemental questions is not sufficient.

Applications submitted for this position by the application deadline may be considered for other openings within this classification; for up to 6 months.

Career Resources can be found at the library’s online resources page.
(https://tinyurl.com/4t95uxn9) 

Examples of Essential Job Functions: In coordination with Library staff, support the Ames Public Library’s collections and programming; Perform clerical duties, participate in special projects as they emerge; other duties as assigned.

Each employee is expected to continually strive to bring shared values to life through our Excellence Through People organizational culture. ETP values include: committing to continuous improvement; inspiring creativity and innovation; being customer driven; making data-driven decisions; committing to diversity, equity, and inclusion; championing employee involvement; striving for excellence; having fiscal stewardship; acting with honesty and integrity; exhibiting leadership; choosing a positive attitude; respecting one another; promoting safety and wellness; and cultivating teamwork. For leaders, this includes creating a work culture that brings these values to life. For all employees, this includes maintaining a Total City Perspective. The purpose of ETP is to deliver exceptional services to the public at the best price, and for employees to experience an enjoyable and stimulating work environment.

Education and Experience:

Must be pursuing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Adult and Family Services, English, Journalism and Mass Communications, Communication Studies, or related field OR currently pursuing a Master in Library Science (MLS or MLIS) degree.

Must be current student at time of start date.

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:  Knowledge of Microsoft office suite, technology such as computers. Skill in organization and attention to detail; skill in written and verbal communication; skill in customer service. Ability to adapt to change; ability to work independently and as part of a team; ability to prioritize and balance multiple projects at once; ability to commit to innovation and continuous improvement; ability to tolerate ambiguity; ability to work with and be sensitive to the needs of diverse groups of people.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Equipment Used to Perform Essential Functions:  Computer hardware, peripherals, and software appropriate for office work, general office equipment; web-based tools; communications equipment including cell phones; library specific equipment such as carts and books. 

Required Physical Activities: Climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing.

Physical Characteristics of Work: The work involves sitting for long periods of time; infrequently lifting heavy objects up to 50 pounds; occasionally setting up displays; occasionally pushing and pulling library equipment; frequently sitting and using arm/leg controls.

Vision Requirements:   Minimum standards for use with those whose work deals largely with preparing and analyzing data, extensive reading, and the use of computer controls.

Environmental Conditions:   The employee ordinarily works in an office environment; occasionally works outside for activities.

Selection Process:
The selection process consists of an evaluation of education and experience, phone interview, on-site interview, and completion of a criminal background check, which includes a sex offender registry check. All candidates will be notified by email of their application status.

Preference may be given to applicants possessing qualifications above the minimum.

Depending on the number of qualified candidates the hiring committee may fore-go phone interviews.