Jobs at the Des Moines Public Library

Job Title: Library Assistant (half-time)    
Job Category:  Professional
Department: Information Services    
Job Code #: 7165
Location: East Side Branch Library    
Travel Required: Between buildings as needed
 

Salary: $28, 340 - $33,852    
Position Type: Half-time  
Date posted: May 22, 2025 
Posting Expires: June 6, 2025 
 

SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the library manager, provides excellent customer service to the community along with information and readers’ advisory services. Does related professional and clerical work as required. This position is twenty (20) hours per week and requires regular evening and weekend hours.

Essential Job Functions
•    Interviews library users carefully to determine what information is required and provides clear, accurate and timely answers to all inquiries.
•    Answers information and readers' advisory questions in-person, by phone, and by electronic means.
•    Trains patrons in use of online catalog and various databases.
•    Checks out and receives materials.
•    Manages interactions with difficult customers with tact and diplomacy.
•    Prepares bibliographies and participates in collection development.
•    Participates in planning and organizing work within the department.
•    Presents programs, book talks and library tours.
•    Assists in planning displays and exhibits.
•    Reads professional literature and attends conferences to keep informed of developing library practices and issues.    

Essential Physical Abilities
•    Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing to be able to communicate effectively.
•    Sufficient vision 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 to be able to access relevant library materials and operate a keyboard.
•    Sufficient mobility to be able to transport materials and equipment.
 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
•    Knowledge of library policies and procedures.
•    Knowledge of a broad range of reference and readers' advisory materials.
•    Knowledge of general clerical methods and procedures.
•    Skill in using current library technology and automated systems.
•    Skill in selecting appropriate materials for patrons of all ages.
•    Skill in interpreting library resources and services to the public.
•    Ability to keep records and files and compile reports.
•    Ability to assist in instructing and training support staff.
•    Ability to work in a team environment.
•    Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with others.
•    Ability to provide outstanding customer service.
•    Ability to stoop and reach well enough to retrieve materials from the shelves.
 

Education and Experience
•    Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college
•    Excellent customer service skills with all ages
•    Successful experience working with children and/or young adults.
•    Experience in a public library setting is desired.
•    Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred 
 

Application Information
Send resume and letter of application to Deputy Director Jon Hobbs, 1000 Grand Ave., Des Moines, Iowa 50309. Applications from candidates must be received by 5:00 pm, Friday, June 6, 2025. Un-official transcripts will be requested at the time of an interview.

Current employees or those who have in the last year who have their transcript and resume on file do not need to resubmit those two items at this time.  However, you must contact Jon Hobbs via email or hard copy of interest in this position before the closing date and time.

Candidates for positions in this class must pass a post-employment offer physical examination, drug screen, and background check.

Applications Accepted By:
FAX OR E-MAIL:
(515) 237-1654 or jthobbs@dmpl.org
Attention: Jon Hobbs—Deputy Director    

MAIL:
Jon Hobbs
Deputy Director
1000 Grand Ave
Des Moines, Iowa 50309

 

Job Title: Multimedia Specialist
Job Category: Professional
Department: Marketing and Communications
Job Code #: 7165
Location: Central
Travel Required: Yes, locally
Position Type: Half-time

Salary: $28,340 - $33,852
Date posted: ​​May 23, 2025​
HR Contact: Jon Hobbs
Posting Expires: ​​June 6, 2025​

Summary:  

The Multimedia Specialist supports the Marketing and Communications Manager by capturing, producing, and editing high-quality visual content that promotes the organization’s brand, events, and services. This position plays a vital role in telling our story through compelling video and photography. The Multimedia Specialist regularly attends events to document key moments and create dynamic content for various platforms. They are responsible for shooting and editing video, photographing events and programs, and developing visual materials that align with marketing strategies. Strong technical skills in video production and editing, creativity, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential to success in this role.

Essential Job Functions

• Collaborate with the Marketing & Communications Manager to develop and execute visual content strategies that  
• Attend and document events, programs, and special activities by capturing high-quality video footage and photographs.  
• Edit and produce professional video content for use across digital platforms, including social media, website, and promotional campaigns.  
• Organize, archive, and maintain a library of multimedia assets for ongoing and future use.  
• Assist in planning visual components of marketing campaigns, ensuring consistency with brand identity and messaging.  
• Operate and maintain video, photo, and audio equipment to ensure readiness and high production quality.  
• Adapt content for various audiences and formats, including short-form videos, highlight reels, and social media posts.  
• Stay current with trends and best practices in multimedia storytelling, video production, and digital engagement.  
• Provide support for internal departments in visual content needs as directed by the Marketing and Communications Managers.  
• Ensure all visual content meets accessibility standards and reflects the organization’s values and commitment to inclusivity.  
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of video production processes, including pre-production, shooting, and post production.  
• Knowledge of photography techniques, lighting, composition, and audio recording.
• Proficiency in video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Fina Cut Pro, or similar tools.  
• Ability to craft compelling visual stories that align with organizational messaging and tone.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills to meet deadlines and juggle multiple projects.  
• Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with others.
• Ability to attend and document events that take place on evenings and weekends.  
• Ability to manage and maintain multimedia equipment and digital files responsibly.  
• Ability to maintain a flexible weekly work schedule, including availability for evening and weekend events as needed.  

Essential Physical Abilities

• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing to be able to communicate effectively.
• Sufficient vision 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 to be able to access relevant library materials and operate a keyboard and mouse.
• Sufficient mobility to be able to transport materials and equipment. Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in marketing, Communications, Graphic Design, or a related field, and
• At least two (2) years of successful marketing or public relations experience; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the duties as described.

Preferred Qualification
Bilingual in English/Spanish

Application Information
Send resume, unofficial transcripts and letter of application to Deputy Director Jon Hobbs via email (JTHobbs@dmpl.org). Applications from candidates must be received by June 6, at 5:00 pm.

Candidates for positions in this class must pass a post-employment offer physical examination, drug screen, and background check.  

Current employees who have their transcript and resume on file do not need to resubmit those two items at this time.  Current employees must contact Jon Hobbs via email or hard copy of interest in this position before the closing date and time. 

Applications Accepted By:

Fax or E-mail:
(515) 237-1654 or jthobbs@dmpl.org
Attention: Jon Hobbs, Deputy Director

Mail:

Jon Hobbs
Deputy Director
1000 Grand Ave
Des Moines, Iowa 50309