Application Process

All candidates are to fill out an application form. Forms are available at each branch, or online.  Applications are kept on file for 6 months.  When a position is filled, the successful applicant must undergo a criminal record check.  Only those interviewed will receive notification of the final decision.

Union Certification

Employees of the Coquitlam Public Library are required to join C.U.P.E. Local 561.  The Collective Agreement specifies terms of employment, including wages and benefits.  Under the agreement with C.U.P.E., employment opportunities are offered internally first.

Departments

There are six departments within the Library – Administration, Circulation, Technical Services, Children’s Services, Reference Services and Adult/Community Services. Many of these departments are located at the Poirier Branch.

Employment Positions

There are several levels of paid employment available at Coquitlam Public Library depending on your qualifications.  Volunteer positions are not available.

Librarian – Requires a Master’s Degree from an accredited library school and a valid drivers license.

Circulation Staff – Consist of: Circulation Supervisor, Branch Assistant, Library Assistant and Library Page.  Requirements depend on specific positions. 
The entry-level position for external applicants is Library Page on-call.

Other Positions include:  Computer Services Specialist, Cataloguing Clerk, Processing Clerk, Acquisitions Clerk, Interlibrary Loans/Holds Clerk, Publicist, Children’s Programming Assistant and Reference Clerk.

Before You Apply…please consider the following

Advantages

1) the work is varied
2) there is interaction with coworkers and the public
3) there is opportunity to learn and grow within the library
4) the staff are friendly, helpful and work as a team

Disadvantages

1) there is no time to read during working hours
2) a great deal of time is spent standing, working behind the counter, or moving around the library
3) there is a great deal of evening and weekend work, especially for part-time staff
4) during peak times the work environment can be stressful.  Staff is expected to remain courteous and friendly at all times
5) helping a difficult patron can be uncomfortable at times, but staff are provided training on how to diffuse potentially hostile situations
6) the work involves many small and repetitive tasks that must be performed with accuracy