Library Assistant

Harvard University • Washington, DC

389d • Onsite

About The Position

The Library Assistant position at the Center for Hellenic Studies supports various library operations, including technical and public services. The role involves tasks related to circulation, acquisitions, materials processing, and outreach activities, assisting both library patrons and staff in a research library environment.

Requirements

• Three years of substantial library or archival experience, preferably in a research library.
• A Bachelor of Arts degree or equivalent.
• Knowledge of how to search library databases.
• Knowledge of Word, Excel, scanning, and graphic design programs like Adobe Photoshop.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team.
• Ability to take initiative and follow instructions.
• A completed ML(I)S or in progress.
• Background in Hellenic and classical studies.
• Reading knowledge of western modern languages and ancient languages.
• Experience using an integrated library management system.
• Experience creating flyers, newsletters, and library guides.
• Experience working with the public, especially scholars.

Nice To Haves

• Background in Hellenic and classical studies.
• Reading knowledge of western modern languages (e.g., German, French, Italian, Spanish) and ancient languages (Greek, Latin).

Responsibilities

• Searches lists of items in HOLLIS/ALMA and Worldcat/OCLC to check holdings and bibliographic information.
• Expedites orders and facilitates invoicing.
• Receives and examines newly arrived library items.
• Processes new monographs and periodicals in ALMA.
• Updates ALMA item records, holdings, and bibliographic records with the cataloguer.
• Administers call number labels, book plates, and barcodes for new items.
• Keeps track of duplicates and assists with donations.
• Prepares and receives bindery shipments.
• Prepares shipments for preservation/conservation services and orders for archival enclosures.
• Performs basic book repairs.
• Assists with inventory and shelf-reading.
• Receives and returns interlibrary loan requests.
• Assists with digitization efforts, including scanning and PDF conversion.
• Checks in and shelves circulated items.
• Searches for missing items.
• Creates and updates library signage.
• Contributes to ongoing physical space analysis and shifting of items.
• Assists users in locating materials and checking out items.
• Helps answer basic reference and directional questions.
• Assists patrons in using scanners and searching for items in HOLLIS.
• Fulfills remote scanning requests following Harvard's policies.
• Assists users with loan renewals and interlibrary loan requests.
• Sets up library card accounts for new users.
• Maintains circulation and acquisitions statistical data.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year, 12 accrued sick days, 12.5 holidays, and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School.
• Tuition Reimbursement: 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options including discounted parking and public transportation passes.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree