Career Opportunities at PPL

The Peoria Public Library is accepting applications for the position of Page.
• Must be age 16 or older.
• College students must be currently enrolled in classes.

Applications will be accepted in the Administrative Office (3rd Floor)
Attn: Jenny Ulrich /H.R.
Peoria Public Library
107 NE Monroe St.
Peoria, IL 61602-1070
JennyUlrich@ppl.peoria.lib.il.us.

The application may also be faxed to (309) 497-2007.

The Peoria Public Library will provide all residents books, other printed materials, new technologies, and programs that stimulate personal intellectual growth and development, and provide a satisfying experience that nurtures a love of reading and the joy of discovery.

 Peoria Public Library is accepting applications for

FULL-TIME MANAGER OF OUTREACH SERVICES

 Currently assigned to North Branch

To apply, please submit your Cover Letter, Resume and Application Form

in person or via email

Or mail to:

Peoria Public Library

ATTN: Jenny Ulrich

107 NE Monroe St.

Peoria, IL  61602-1070

JennyUlrich@ppl.peoria.lib.il.us

 The application deadline is 5:00 p.m., Monday, September 22nd, 2025.

 Application form is available at https://peoriapubliclibrary.org/about-ppl/careers/

 Benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid vacation, sick time & holidays, IMRF pension plan, Employee Assistance Program and optional deferred compensation plan.

 JOB DESCRIPTION

MANAGER OF OUTREACH SERVICES  

Grade:     12               Salary:     $52,000 – $62,000

JOB SUMMARY

Oversees every aspect of the Outreach Department’s daily operations and staffing, including home delivery and deposit collection services. Coordinates community engagement for the Library, including outreach to local schools, businesses, and non-profits; participation in community events, and serving on local boards and committees. Reports to the Deputy Director.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(Functions listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.)

 

  • Hires, trains, and evaluates Outreach staff
  • Plans, directs and supervises Outreach staff; oversees work assignments and schedules
  • Provides high level customer service, mediates patron concerns and addresses any problems or needs;
  • Oversees, plans and executes outreach services for all ages in the community
  • Oversees, plans and conducts offsite and onsite community partnership events and programs
  • Processes staff timesheets for payroll
  • Provides guidance and direction to staff on outreach goals, standards of service and staff development; identifies and resolves personnel issues; models expected behaviors;
  • Works with library leadership to set goals and strategies; monitors progress towards them;
  • Analyzes and evaluates community needs; advises the library leadership on strategies to improve services
  • Creates and maintains productive relationships with community groups, advocates, library users and other key stakeholders in an effort to better meet the needs of the Peoria community
  • Creates outreach opportunities that align with the Library Mission and Strategic Plan
  • Maintains a working list of all partner organizations and annual outreach events
  • Oversees the planning, scheduling and implementation of programs for adults and children; tracks programming budget and donations;
  • Oversees home delivery and deposit collection services
  • Oversees, plans and conducts programs in the local schools to promote the Library’s programs and services
  • Provides basic reference, reader’s advisor and computer help
  • Performs general circulation duties
  • Assists in collection development through regular recommendations to the Manager of Collection Development, collection maintenance and weeding;
  • Identifies key outreach opportunities and coordinates staffing with all departments
  • Coordinates the use of the Library’s Outreach Van with all departments
  • Provides requested statistical reports
  • May be required to work in multiple locations and on any of the 7 days of the workweek (Sunday – Saturday);
  • Represents the Library at community events and meetings.
  • Keeps abreast of library best practices in outreach services by attending workshops, webinars, and educational programs and reading periodicals and specialized literature; attends staff meetings.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

The employee is expected to perform or possess the following:

 

  1. Ability to gain thorough knowledge of Peoria Public Library’s policies and procedures;
  2. Ability to act as a representative of Peoria Public Library to the public;
  3. Effective decision-making skills with strong customer focus;
  4. Knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures for public library service and the ability to interpret them to staff and the public;
  5. Knowledge of material selection practices and resources;
  6. Ability to establish priorities and organize workload;
  7. Ability to evaluate Outreach processes and procedures and to recommend changes as appropriate
  8. Ability to effectively supervise and motivate staff;
  9. Ability to communicate and work effectively with diverse individuals (customers patrons and staff) in order to accomplish library and department goals and objectives;
  10. Ability to maintain a pleasant and productive working atmosphere;
  11. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships;
  12. Knowledge of digital materials and resources
  13. Ability to operate relevant computer systems, including hardware and software, computer networks, and office machines and other equipment; and
  14. Ability to obtain a valid IL driver’s license.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  1. BA/BS;
  2. MLS or MLIS preferred;
  3. Three – five years relevant experience;

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Work requires routine physical effort in the handling of light and moderately heavy materials of up to 50 pounds. May require standing for long periods of time and frequent stooping and bending.

Work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices, libraries, classrooms or meeting and training rooms, e.g., use of safe work place practices with office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls and observance of fire and building safety regulations and traffic signals when driving.

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Peoria sets itself apart by offering a high quality of life at a low cost of living.

Named the No. 1 most affordable midsized city in the U.S. by AdvisorSmith, Peoria offers big-city attractions with a small-town attitude. You can make friends here. Be seen here. But you can also visit big cities — Chicago and St. Louis — in a 3-hour drive or less.

Peoria Public Library is the largest library system in Downstate Illinois, with a Main Library and four branch locations.

Our park district is one of the largest in the state with nearly 9,000 acres of public land, but also wonderful facilities including aquatic centers, a botanical garden, golf courses, ice rink, zoo and, of course, a multitude of parks and trails.

The Peoria Riverfront Museum is a non-profit multidisciplinary museum of art, science, history, and achievement that promotes itself as the only museum of its kind in the United States. It includes a planetarium, giant screen digital theater and has more than 200 community and national program and content partners, including affiliation with the Smithsonian.

The Peoria Civic Center is a bustling hub of entertainment, sports and culture with an Arena, Theater, Ballroom, Exhibit Halls, and versatile meeting space all under one roof.

But don’t just take our word for it. See for yourself.

Why You Should Live and Work Here

Best Things to Do in Peoria

City Overview