Access Services Assistant, Widener Library at Harvard University, (Cambridge, MA)

Posted July 10, 2024

Location: Widener Library, Harvard University
Start date: July 16, 2024
End date: 90 days from start date
Schedule: Saturday 8:45am-1pm, Sunday 11:45am-8pm, and Monday 4-10pm
Pay Rate: $17.50 per hour
CORI: Required

Description:
Access Services supports the mission of the Harvard Library by delivering high quality, user
centered services; cultivating a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment for research
and inquiry; stewarding the University collections; 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.

Reporting to the Access Services Manager for Circulation and Reading Room Services at
Widener Library, the Temporary Access Services Assistant is a highly visible position is
responsible for actively assisting users and monitoring multiple library functions in a dynamic
environment to deliver outstanding services to library users.
This is a 90-day position. The schedule represents our expected needs at this time, but are
subject to change based on public health conditions and the business needs of Harvard Library.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Circulation: Open and close Access Services work areas; loan and return materials using
  Alma; communicate and apply library policies; locate and retrieve requested items and
  assist patrons in finding library materials; assist patrons with the use of the library
  catalog; process incoming deliveries from other libraries and route materials for return;
  shelving materials on the hold shelves.
• Information Services: Provides basic information and reference services at the library’s
  service desk; assist patrons in the use of the HOLLIS catalog as well as other library
  materials, resources, and equipment; refer questions to specialized reference staff
  following established protocols.
• Library Equipment: Assist patrons with scanners, printers, copiers; restock supplies in
  public copiers and printers.
• Student Workers: Oversees performance of daily tasks.

QUALIFICATIONS
Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent education required Excellent oral and written
  communication skills.
• Computer skills must include Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word and Excel.

Additional Requirements:

• Evidence of a strong public service orientation and sensitivity to working in a diverse
  user environment.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to exercise informed decision-making, resolve problems effectively, and to
  skillfully execute tasks in a timely manner in a busy and dynamic team-oriented
  environment with minimal supervision.
• Competency to perform repetitive tasks with overall accuracy and effectiveness.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• This position involves frequent use of computer screen, keyboard, and mouse.
• 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, sit, and stand for long periods required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work is performed in a library/office setting.

BiblioTemps® is an employment service of the Massachusetts Library System that provides
experienced library workers for temporary placements in public, academic, and special libraries
throughout Massachusetts.

Massachusetts Library System (MLS) is an equal opportunity employer.
MLS is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or
applicant for employment because of race, color, age, marital status, sex, physical or mental
challenge, creed, religion, political affiliation, national or ethnic origin, or sexual orientation.
Members of underrepresented groups, and those committed to working in a diverse cultural
environment are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Submit resume via our job board – https://www.bibliotemps.com/jobs
Contact with questions – [email protected]