Library Assistant

Harvard Library • Cambridge, MA

396d • $55,806 - $87,169 • Remote

About The Position

The Library Assistant position at Harvard Library involves supporting the teaching and research mission by managing acquisitions, metadata creation, and ensuring timely access to library collections. The role requires collaboration with various library units and involves tasks such as ordering materials, processing shipments, and maintaining bibliographic records. The assistant will also engage in problem resolution and contribute to workflow improvements within the Information and Technical Services Department.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous library or related work experience required.
• Familiarity with one European language is required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Windows and online bibliographic systems required.
• Demonstrated experience using technology for daily tasks and problem-solving.
• Excellent organizational, written communication, and analytical skills required.
• Competency in keyboarding.

Nice To Haves

• College degree preferred.
• Library acquisitions and basic cataloging experience preferred.
• Experience with library systems such as OCLC and Alma preferred.
• Proficiency in a web-based environment preferred.
• Work experience in a production-oriented environment preferred.
• Excellent oral and interpersonal communication skills preferred.
• Working knowledge of additional foreign languages preferred.

Responsibilities

• Place orders and manage renewals for materials in various languages and formats.
• Act as a liaison with other library units.
• Process shipments of new materials, checking for accuracy and verifying vendor invoices.
• Research bibliographic data for ordering and cataloging materials.
• Create, edit, and review bibliographic records according to established guidelines.
• Resolve complex order and invoice issues.
• Process invoices using various payment methods.
• Initiate claims and corrective actions for problem titles.
• Provide end processing for serial items.
• Monitor acquisitions ticketing systems and group email accounts.
• Run reports for bibliographers and collection development librarians.
• Secure public performance rights for DVDs at the point of order.
• Communicate with vendors and financial personnel to solve problems.
• Monitor vendor performance and maintain patron record privacy.
• Suggest innovations for workflow improvements.
• Ensure responsible financial management and compliance with policies.
• Contribute to special projects and assist in hiring and training staff.

Benefits

• 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year.
• 12 accrued sick days per year.
• 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January.
• Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary caregivers.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources including on-campus childcare centers.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15%.
• Tuition Assistance Program and Tuition Reimbursement.
• Professional Development programs and classes.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and public transportation passes.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees