Reader Services and Administrative Assistant

Under the direction of the Public Services Supervisor and in alignment with the guidelines set by the Special Collections Research Center (SCRC), the Reader Services and Administrative Assistant (RSAA) will perform a variety of complex library tasks and provide administrative support to the Director of Special Collections and Center-wide activities. The role includes overseeing circulation in the Reading Room, assisting with material access, and providing general office support within the department.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in welcoming and orienting Special Collections classes, researchers, and visitors, sharing responsibilities with the 2nd Reader Services & Administrative Assistant.
• Register new researchers, set up Aeon user accounts, and explain the use of Special Collections materials.
• Oversee the circulation of materials in the reading room, manage records for holds, preservation needs, and reshelving, and track associated transactions.
• Monitor and maintain the Special Collections reading room and other public spaces, ensuring the security and proper handling of materials.
• Respond to PDF scan requests from onsite and remote users via LibAnswers.
• Refer reference queries to the Reader Services Librarian and other staff as necessary.
• Serve as backup for paging duties and assist with additional tasks as assigned.

Administrative Support:

• Answer the main telephone and route mail as needed.
• Manage and maintain content for the Center’s website and Library intranet, Loop.
• Organize and maintain paper files for the Center.
• Administer the Platzman Fellowship applications, track Fellows, and assist with their on-site visits.
• Support events hosted by SCRC, including liaising with event contacts, handling logistics, and coordinating room setups.
• Provide administrative assistance to the SCRC Director, preparing documents, reports, and annual reports for the department and division.
• Maintain and compile reader services statistics for the department.

Qualifications:

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, with patrons, staff, and faculty.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, exhibit discretion with sensitive information, and use relevant software applications effectively.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain focus for extended periods.
• Effective problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and independent decision-making abilities.
• Demonstrated professionalism and ability to work collaboratively with staff.

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma required; Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Previous public services experience, particularly in a high-volume, customer-oriented environment, is required.
• Experience in special collections, archives, or museum settings preferred, including handling rare and fragile materials.
• Experience with research, particularly at the college level, is a plus.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency with relevant databases, library collections, and access tools.
• Familiarity with library systems and e-mail/desktop applications, including Microsoft Office.
• Web authoring experience is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to handle rare materials with care and sensitivity.
• Tolerance for moderate levels of dust and odor, as well as the ability to sit for long periods and perform repetitive hand movements.

Salary:

• $19.65 - $28.76 per hour.