Employment Opportunities

Which libraries are hiring?

Hiring can happen at different branches throughout the year. It's tricky to say which branches are hiring at any given time, since it's always changing. We recommend applying for any branches that are easy for you to get to. Maybe it's a branch near where you live or close to your school. Keep in mind, if a branch isn't hiring this week, maybe they will be in a month or so - and if you've already submitted an application with in the past 6 months, you may just get a call. We keep page applications on hand for up to 6 months.

How many hours a week do Pages work? How long are shifts?

We have various positions that range in hours from 4 to 12 hours per week. Shifts can vary in length from 2 to 7 hours. 

What is the weekly schedule like for a Page?

Pages work from 4 to 15 hours per week depending on the position. Typical shifts include 1-2 weeknights from 4 or 5pm until closing and every other Saturday. Some Pages work Sundays. Each position has regularly scheduled hours and may involve different evenings of the week. The exact schedule will be relayed to you when you get a call for an interview. Please indicate your availability on your application so we can match you to the opportunity that best fits your schedule.

The library does expect a commitment to your scheduled hours once you accept a Page position. There is some flexibility to switch shifts with other Pages if needed, and Pages do earn some vacation hours that may be used throughout the year.

If I want to work at the library only for the summer, is it possible to quit before school starts? Or will I have to keep working? Also, what is the deadline to hand in an application for a summer position?

The library doesn't hire pages just for the summer. Page positions are year-round. It's expected upon your hire that you'll be available during the school year, not just the summer. Generally, the scheduling accommodates students. For future job recommendations and work experience, it can be really helpful to have a job over the school year. It's also a great opportunity to get out of the house and get paid. Unlike some places, the library doesn't have a set hiring season - it's all on a rolling basis and depends on each branch's staffing needs. Applications are kept on file for 6 months, so apply as soon as you'd like!

What does this whole "6 months" thing mean? If I hand-in my application form in the summer, do I have to wait for 6 months or (if I was chosen) can they interview me earlier? If there are no jobs after 6 months, the application will be removed from the files?

No worries, applying to jobs and understanding the jargon is tricky. "Kept on file for 6 months" means that a submitted application will be in the files for the next 6 months and if a job becomes available we'll look at it. So, you could be called for an interview at any time within the 6 months after you submit your application. If you haven't heard anything after 6 months, re-submit your application. It's always possible that they weren't hiring in the first 6 months you applied, but liked your application. This also means that if there are no jobs for 6 months the application will be removed from the files. 

Is it possible to designate a start date more than six months after than when the application is handed in?

Yes, that is possible, but you'd have to submit an application again after six months. I'd advise waiting until your start date is within 6 months of turning in the application. 

I was reading the application instructions and one of the steps says "Do not send duplicates." If I submitted a single application (along with my resume) but to a couple of different branches in my area, would that be considered sending "duplicates?"

Sending applications to multiple branches is not sending duplicates. That's what you should do! The 'no duplicates' statement means they're asking applicants not to send more than one application to any one branch within 6 months of sending the first application. Or in other words, don't send in a copy of your application every hour / every day / every week. One application per branch every 6 months will keep you up to date! 

What's the name of the person taking applications at my branch?

Applications can be received by any staff member at the information/circulation desk, they'll hand off your application to the correct person. 

Can you send your application through email to human resources for page jobs?

Yes of course, but make sure you include a copy of the application. This way we know what hours you are available to work. 

Should applicants have any job experience prior to applying for a Page job? Or is it okay if this is our first job?

Yes, it's absolutely okay if it's your first job! On your resume, be sure to include any volunteer work that you've done or organizations that you've been part of (like Scouts/Guides, other clubs, etc.) Include experiences like helping out a neighbour with chores or gardening, playing music at retirement homes, or any babysitting experience. Anything that was positive and demonstrates responsibility and/or cooperation can generally be thought of as experience. 

Is it okay not to hand in part of the Page application because it was not filled or not needed?

If you have a blank section, still turn it in. Maybe write N/A or Not Applicable. If you leave out the section, the people looking it over may think it got lost or you forgot to fill it out. Putting "Not Applicable" or something like that shows that you reviewed the section. 

Do you have to attach a resume if this is your first job?

This is a great chance to write your first resume! Include any volunteer positions or anything you've done that demonstrates responsibility and being organized. 

Will we know if they have read our application/resume? And after about how long will they contact you (if you are selected)?

Due to many reasons, the turn-around time can vary. It also varies if the branch is seeking new pages or already has sufficient staffing. All applications are kept on file for 6 months - so if you haven't heard anything after 6 months, you may want to resubmit your application. Job hunting can be challenging, but keep trying. 

In contemporary job applications, it is very tricky to know if and/or when an application/resume is being reviewed. Sometimes applicants can hear from employers long after submitting a resume. Unfortunately, the 'wait and see' process is how job applications work everywhere. Most times an applicant will never hear anything; that is job hunting in the modern world. 

What guarantee is there that my application will be selected if I apply?

Job applications do not have a guarantee. It's also possible that you may apply and not hear anything - that's very common in applying for jobs anywhere. Make your application the best that it can be. Highlight your experience and personal qualities and skills that make you extra terrific!

During an interview what is usually being asked? And what makes it successful?

Interviewing sounds daunting, but if you stay positive and be yourself, your odds of landing the job may improve. Something else to keep in mind is that interviewers are looking for examples from your past experiences. Be prepared to have mini-stories that illustrate different qualities (i.e. leadership, flexibility, how you've resolved problems, etc.). While I don't know exactly what questions they'll ask, generally interviews ask you to tell quick stories about how you handled a tricky situation, demonstrated team-work, have good work ethic and are responsible. It's good to think of these examples before the interview, then you can just tell the quick story (be brief!) of how you handled various situations.

And of course, the Library has tons of materials to help you get prepared! While many books may speak to professionals, lots of the advice is totally relevant to everyone landing their first job, too (i.e. How-to Interview Books). Remember, every one interviewing you has also gone through the nerve-wracking experience of their first interview and their first job. Just be prepared, stay positive, and be yourself.

What would the practical test consist of?

The practical test consists of a sorting test with books. You would be asked to sort Fiction (alphabetic sorting) and Non-fiction (numerical sorting) books by placing them in sequential order. To get a sense of how it works, check out your branch's stacks - or ask a librarian!

Will I have to give my social insurance number (SIN) if I am hired?

Yes. SIN numbers are required for employer's tax purposes and other reasons (and so that you can get a tax refund) - this goes for nearly any job in Canada and it is a job requirement. 

It says that you will be asked for two references? I've never had a job before and I'm not sure what that is or how you would come about them. Is it possible to apply for the job and not have references?

References can be adults or people (not family or relatives) that can speak to your skills and qualities as a responsible, capable person. If you've ever helped someone out (cleaning, gardening) or volunteered somewhere, ask the person who provided to direction or the person that knew you best in that position. 

I'm already a volunteer at the library. Will I still be eligible to apply for a job at the same branch?

Yes, you're still eligible! Go for it. 

I'm going to finish Grade 9 in a few weeks from now. Can I still apply right now?

Yes, as long as you have completed Grade 9 at the time of interview and hiring date. Since it's only a few weeks, it should be okay.

 If you didn't find the answer to your question, contact Human Resources.