Library Student Assistant

Position Summary:

The Library Student Assistant provides friendly, professional, and customer-focused service to patrons while supporting the daily operations of the library. Student assistants help patrons navigate library spaces, services, and resources, including circulation, course reserves, and interlibrary loan. They also assist with library projects, outreach initiatives, archives, and other operational needs as assigned.

As an employee of Albright College, the Library Student Assistant represents the library in a courteous and professional manner when interacting with students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Comprehensive training is provided for all job responsibilities. Work schedules are determined through mutual agreement between the student and the supervisor at the time of hire.

The Library Student Assistant reports to the Library Director and/or designated library staff member.

Essential Job Functions

Public Services

• Check materials in and out using the library's circulation system, including books, reserve materials, and other circulating items.
• Monitor study spaces and report facility concerns.
• Provide courteous, accurate, and timely customer service to library patrons.
• Assist patrons with locating library resources, navigating library spaces, and using library equipment and technology.
• Refer patrons to the appropriate librarian or campus department when necessary.
• Answer and direct calls professionally.
• Maintain the organization of library collections through shelving, shelf reading, and stack maintenance.
• Assist with creating displays, signage, promotional materials, and other library projects.
• Help maintain a clean, welcoming, and organized library environment.

Projects and Programming

• Assist with library outreach events, programming, and promotional activities.
• Contribute to the library's social media and marketing initiatives as assigned.
• Collect library usage data and assist with assessment projects.
• Complete special projects as assigned, including summer project-based work when available.

Archives and Special Collections

• Assist with digitization, preservation, and archival projects as needed.
• Support administrative and organizational tasks related to library operations.

Qualifications

Skills

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Dependable, punctual, and able to adhere to an established work schedule.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Willingness to learn new technologies, procedures, and library systems.
• Ability to communicate professionally with students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
• Ability to work morning, evening, and occasional weekend shifts, depending on departmental needs.

Preferred Experience

• Previous customer service experience through employment, volunteer work, or campus involvement is preferred but not required.

Position Details

• Student assistants are typically hired at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, with occasional summer or mid-semester openings as staffing needs arise.
• Selected applicants will participate in an interview process and complete required training before beginning their assigned work schedule.
• Additional responsibilities may be assigned to support the evolving needs of the library.