At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist library patrons and staff, manage circulation activities, and provide excellent customer service.
- Company: Widener University, a vibrant community-focused institution.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, inclusive environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Great opportunity for high school and college students to gain valuable experience.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and enhance your skills while serving the community.
- Qualifications: High school diploma, strong customer service skills, and willingness to learn new tech.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Widener University is currently seeking a User and Access Services Assistant who works cooperatively with library patrons, staff, and student workers to deliver excellent library service to the Widener Community. Demonstrating a strong customer service orientation, the Library Information Desk Assistant functions independently to fulfill the duties and responsibilities below.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):
- Staff the Library Information Desk, performing circulation activities such as checking materials in and out.
- Respond to basic patron queries in person, over the phone, via email and other modalities.
- Field questions about policy and escalate research questions to a Research, Instruction, and Outreach Librarian as appropriate.
- Adhere to access and circulation policies, consulting with the Head of User & Access Services as needed.
- Utilize library management system to provide library service.
- Oversee student workers in place of User & Access Services Evening Supervisor as needed.
- Open and/or close library according to established library hours schedule.
- Coordinate all aspects of library Course Reserves services.
- Collaborate with the Head of User & Access Services in regular assessment of library procedures and policies and with keeping unit documentation up to date.
- Ability to work flexible hours as needed.
Secondary Responsibilities:
- Retrieve and reshelf materials.
- Shelf read and shift collections.
- Collect data and maintain statistics.
- Assist with library projects as needed.
- Participate in periodic staff meetings and training.
- Assist in providing Virtual Assistance Services.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required):
- High school diploma.
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Experience using library services and resources, such as the online catalog and/or databases.
- Ability and willingness to learn new technology tools including generative AI.
Preferred:
- Some post-secondary education.
- Library work experience, including volunteer or internship.
- Experience with FOLIO library management system.
- Experience with Springshare products.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:
Ability to bend, stoop, carry books, sit or stand for extended periods, and lift up to 20 pounds.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran.
Widener University, an independent, metropolitan, doctoral-intensive university, connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention and experiential learning are key components of the Widener Experience. Located in Chester, PA, Widener's main campus is nestled between Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE, with Law Schools located in both Harrisburg and Wilmington.
For more information about the university, please visit our website at www.widener.edu. EOE M/F/V/D
User Access and Services Assistant in Chester employer: Widener University
Contact Detail:
Widener University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land User Access and Services Assistant in Chester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the library! Familiarise yourself with the layout, services, and resources available. This will not only help you answer patron queries more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills. Think about how you would handle different scenarios at the Library Information Desk. Role-playing with a friend can help you feel more confident when interacting with patrons.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current library staff or students. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations. Plus, it’s a great way to get your name out there and show your enthusiasm for the position!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace User Access and Services Assistant in Chester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Customer Service Skills: Since this role is all about helping library patrons, make sure to highlight your customer service experience. Share specific examples of how you've gone above and beyond to assist others, whether in a library setting or elsewhere.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send the same application everywhere! Take a moment to tweak your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the User Access and Services Assistant role. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point while still showcasing your personality.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Widener University
✨Know Your Library Services
Familiarise yourself with the library services and resources, especially the online catalog and databases. Being able to discuss these during your interview will show that you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in the past. Think about specific situations where you helped someone solve a problem or answered their queries effectively. This will demonstrate your strong customer service orientation.
✨Be Ready for Technology Questions
Since the role involves using technology tools, brush up on any relevant software or systems like FOLIO or Springshare products. If you have experience with generative AI, be prepared to discuss how you can leverage it in a library setting.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Teamwork
Highlight your ability to work flexible hours and collaborate with others. Share experiences where you’ve worked as part of a team or overseen others, as this aligns well with the responsibilities of overseeing student workers.