Access Services Assistant

Hamilton College•Clinton, NY

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Hamilton College is hiring two Access Services Assistants. Reporting to the Head of Access Services, these are key members of the team responsible for the overall operation of the Library Circulation Desk, providing access to library materials and information about the services, facilities, and policies of Hamilton College’s Library and Information Technology Services (LITS). We are looking for people who will be welcoming, professional, and helpful. During the academic year, the two positions follow specific schedules, with flexibility required for extended hours, weekends, and academic breaks. All shifts are onsite. Team members are expected to be flexible with their schedules and to provide backup coverage for one another. These positions support a range of functions across the library, including circulation, reserves, stacks maintenance, interlibrary loan, and shipping/receiving. Staff in these roles also direct the work of student assistants as needed. As key members of LITS, they help ensure that Hamilton's library services are efficient, responsive to the evolving needs of faculty, students, and staff, and grounded in equity and inclusion.

Requirements

Associates Degree required, Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
Library experience preferred.
Previous customer service experience preferred.
Critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills.
Service orientation; demonstrated ability to identify and effectively meet patron needs.
Ability to clearly and effectively communicate orally and in writing.
Basic computer skills and willingness to learn new computer systems and programs as needed.
Ability to work independently and set priorities for own work and that of others.
Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing deadlines and/or unexpected challenges.
Ability to collaborate.
Focus and attention to detail; excellent time management skills.

Responsibilities

Assists patrons in locating and accessing materials and utilizing library services.
Circulates materials internally and externally.
Demonstrates an exemplary manner in dealing with the public, including the ability to de-escalate tense or difficult patron interactions.
Collaborates with faculty in meeting their needs for service.
Maintains physical library collections, electronic/print reserves, and library equipment.
During assigned shifts, is responsible for the operation of the Library Circulation Desk, including directing the work of student employees on shift.
Confers with appropriate parties in making, changing and implementing library policies and procedures; interprets and enforces these policies.
Observes and notifies supervisor of any safety, security, or other issues; implements sound judgment in resolving issues when a supervisor is not present.
Directs patrons to appropriate LITS staff as requested.
Assists with basic (non-Circulation) service desk questions, referring as appropriate.
May specialize or have an emphasis in additional tasks, such as interlibrary lending and borrowing, or coordination of student workers.
Perform other duties as assigned.