Library Services Assistant (Sessional)

Job Summary

This position is responsible for answering circulation, directional and reference questions at the Service Desk; referring to a librarian those reference questions which are complex or which require group instruction. Will assist with project work as requested by the Manager, Library Services. Works with other members of the UBCO Library staff and the public; participates in team activities such as meetings, trainings and skills-building events.

Organizational Status

This position works under the supervision of a Library Services Coordinator and reports to the Library Services Manager.

Work Performed

1. Performs Service Desk functions by:

- Providing library assistance at the Service Desk.

- Creating a positive and welcoming customer service environment for all library patrons.

- Answering reference questions using UBC Okanagan Library resources including the catalogue, online databases and electronic resources; referring questions to subject specialists and/or other campus departments, as appropriate.

- Answering questions concerning library resources and services; providing assistance to patrons using library resources and technology.

- Explaining library policies and procedures to patrons; reporting problems to designated individuals or departments.

- Providing circulation services, such as charging, renewing and discharging items.

- Creating and updating patron records, accounts and item records, including the creation of brief item records and barcode maintenance.

- Opening and closing the Library.

- Accepting fine payments, including processing debit transactions.

- Shelving library material and assisting with ongoing stacks maintenance.

- Assisting librarians with orientation or instructional sessions; preparing support or instructional materials for students and faculty as directed; completing reference projects as assigned.

- Participating in team meetings, including ongoing training sessions.

2. Assists with Library Projects by:

- Assisting with background research to support development of new library services and initiatives.

- Participating in evaluations of resources on trial and providing feedback on these items.

- Providing support for processes and procedures on collections, including donations, deselection, and inventories.

- Compiling statistics on a variety of library services including collections, public service instruction, etc.

- Assisting with processing reserves, interlibrary loans, document delivery, and media booking tasks as necessary.

3. Performs other duties or projects as assigned.

Consequence of Error/Judgement

Decisions where clear procedures are not available will be directed to the Manager, Library Services. Errors in judgment or ineffective communication relating to services offered at the Service Desk have limited effect on library operations.

Supervision Received

The incumbent will receive supervision from a Library Services Coordinator and the Manager, Library Services, depending on the duties assigned.

Supervision Given

This position does not supervise staff.

Minimum Qualifications

- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own

- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

-Completion of a two-year Library Technician Diploma, or equivalent educational experience is required.

-Minimum one (1) year recent experience in an academic library environment is required, or an equivalent combination of experiences in other library or work settings may be considered.

-Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own.

-Demonstrated commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

-Excellent customer service delivery skills in an in person setting. Will sit/stand for up to 2 hours while working at a service point.

-Knowledge of using an integrated library system.

-Computer experience and effective keyboarding skills.

-Experience using standard workplace software such as MS Word, Excel, and database applications.

-Physical ability to handle library collection materials:

-Ability to pull/push book cart, up to 50 lbs, occasionally

-Ability to twist, bend, lift, reach up to 5 lbs/ book on a daily basis.

Preferred Qualifications

- Knowledge of library policies and procedures is an asset.

- Effective at multi-tasking, organization and attention to detail.

- Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

- Ability to deal with a diversity of people in a calm, courteous, and effective manner.

- Ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines, and work in a team environment.

- Ability to exercise tact, courtesy, discretion and sound judgment.

- Ability to apply previously learned concepts to new situations and/or technology.

- Ability to follow and carry out instructions.

- Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and under limited supervision.

- Ability to operate a normal range of library equipment.

- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.