Reader Services and Administrative Assistant

Department​
 

Library R & L - SCRC Public Services

About the Department

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Library About the Department Standard Language:
Widely known as guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff.

As part of the University of Chicago, we offer a wide variety of strong benefits and programs to academics and staff. From a choice of comprehensive health plan options and wellness programs, short and long-term disability insurance, continuing education opportunities including educational assistance plans, competitive retirement plans and paid time off (vacation, personal and university holidays), we’re committed to providing benefits and a work environment that matters!

Job Information​
 

Job Summary:

Under the direction of the Public Services Supervisor, and following Special Collections Research Center’s (SCRC) guidelines, the Reader Services and Administrative Assistant (RSAA) performs both a broad range of complex library tasks and administrative support duties. This position shares responsibility for staffing the SCRC circulation desk and oversees circulation and use of materials in the Reading Room. This position applies specialized technical and bibliographic skills and/or subject knowledge to support access to the collections. The RSAA provides administrative support for the Director of Special Collections, and for Center-wide activities.

Responsibilities:

• Reader Services Support:

• Shares responsibility with the 2nd Reader Services & Administrative Assistant for welcoming and providing preliminary orientation to Special Collections classes, researchers, and visitors.

• Registers new researchers and assists with setting up new Aeon user accounts, explains guidelines for use of Special Collections materials.

• Shares responsibility with the 2nd Reader Services & Administrative Assistant for prompt and accurate circulation of materials in the reading room, including transactions with readers, and routing items for holds, preservation attention, and reshelving; as well as for all associated record-keeping.

• Shares responsibility with the 2nd Reader Services & Administrative Assistant for oversight of the Special Collections reading room and all public areas on the first floor of the department, monitors circulation of materials and people within these spaces.

• Responds to onsite and remote PDF scan requests through LibAnswers as assigned.

• Shares responsibility with the 2nd Reader Services & Administrative Assistant for referring onsite and remote reference queries to the Center's Reader Services Libraria