Temporary Access Services Specialist (90 Days), Harvard Library, Cambridge, MA

Posted July 21, 2021

Description

Access Services actively supports mission of the Harvard Library by delivering a high standard of service; cultivating a welcoming environment that is supportive to academic research and inquiry; stewarding the university collection; and connecting the academic community to the vast array of library resources. We support the teaching and scholarly mission of the University through collaborative partnerships with the community of students, scholars, and professionals at Harvard and beyond. 

We are hiring two temporary staff who will report to the Access Services Librarian, Library & Knowledge Services, Harvard Kennedy School (HKS). 

Scheduling

For most of August the hours for both positions will be scheduled between the hours of 8AM and 6PM, Monday through Friday. Starting August 30 and continuing through October, position one will be scheduled from 2:45PM to 10:45PM, Sunday through Thursday, and position two will be scheduled from 8AM to 4:45PM, Tuesday through Friday and 12PM to 5PM on Saturday. These schedules represent our expected needs at this time but are subject to change based on public health conditions and the business needs of Harvard Library and the Harvard Kennedy School.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Temporary Access Services Specialist needed for the library at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Responsible for patron-facing services desk operations, library staffing outside of business hours (e.g. nights and weekends), and collections projects identified as a strategic priority for LKS at HKS. 

This work includes managing the loans and returns of general collection items, reserve items, and equipment loans; Harvard Direct support in processing pick lists, packing and unpacking HUMS deliveries, and maintaining the hold shelves; Scan & Deliver; library technology support to our patrons including printing setup, troubleshooting, instructional use of the scanners, and IT referrals; collection maintenance including shelving, shelf reading, periodical maintenance, etc.; reference referrals; patron counts; and opening and closing procedures.

Collections projects include the processing of Working Papers post digitization and disbinding, the transfer of PAEs/SYPAs to off-site storage, and the withdrawal/transfer of the reference collection.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position involves frequent use of a computer keyboard, mouse, and barcode scanner. Must be able to lift and move up to 50 lbs. Must be able to push and maneuver a loaded book truck weighing up to 80 lbs. Ability to bend, stoop, stretch, and climb small step stools; ability to sit and stand for long periods required.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

·         High school diploma or equivalent education required

·         Excellent oral and written communication skills

·         Strong public service orientation, with previous library or related customer service experience required

·         Computer skills must include Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word and Excel, as well as collaborative tools (e.g. Google Suite, Microsoft Teams, etc.)

Additional Qualifications

·         College degree preferred 

·         Academic library experience is preferred

·         Supervisory experience preferred

·         Experience with a library management system, especially Ex Libris’ Alma system preferred

·         Ability to effectively solve problems and exercise discerning judgment

·         Ability to exercise good judgment and make sound decisions; follow through to completion

·         Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work productively in a team environment, with minimal supervision

·         Ability to be flexible and respond positively to fluctuating workflow and changes in routine

·         Sensitivity to working in a diverse user environment

·         Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work productively in a team environment 

·         Ability to perform repetitive work tasks with overall accuracy, effectiveness, and attention to detail 

·         Adaptable, able to flexibly adjust to changing workplace needs

·         Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers and library users

·         Ability to work independently and identify potentially more effective methods of work operation

Full/Part Time

Full Time

Salary

$15.00  /  hour

How to Apply:

To apply, send cover letter and resume to Julie Petzold, [email protected].