Manager - Access Services

University of Guelph•Guelph, ON

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The McLaughlin Library at the University of Guelph is seeking a Manager, Access Services, at the Assistant Librarian, Associate Librarian, or Librarian level. This is an internal application opportunity with an anticipated start date of July 15, 2026. The role is crucial in shaping future library services and student support, acting as a primary point of contact for users and connecting them with library resources. The position operates within a collaborative, team-based leadership model, emphasizing shared values, open communication, and responsibility. The Manager will work with colleagues to support teaching, learning, and research, ensuring effective and welcoming frontline services. This is a hands-on operational management role requiring strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and a commitment to user-centered service in a high-volume, fast-paced environment. Responsibilities include operational oversight, staff support and supervision, service planning, and participation in library-wide initiatives. The Manager will foster a supportive environment that empowers employees while providing clear direction and accountability. Some schedule flexibility, including occasional evening or weekend work, is required. Remote work is limited due to the operational nature of the role. The Manager will promote the visibility of Access Services, identify collaboration opportunities, and build relationships with peers at other institutions. Staying informed about emerging trends and technologies in Access Services is essential. The successful candidate will receive support for learning and development through mentorship and opportunities to build leadership capacity.

Requirements

ALA-accredited MLIS degree or equivalent
Minimum of three years of progressive professional experience in an academic library, including growing leadership and decision-making responsibilities and/or taking on increasingly complex service or project work
Experience supervising staff, including performance management, in a service-focused environment
Strong understanding of Access Services functions, with experience in at least one of the following areas: circulation, borrowing and lending, reference, or course reserves
Demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage operations effectively in a high-volume environment with competing priorities and frequent interruptions
Strong judgment, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and decision-making skills
Demonstrated ability to translate strategic direction into operational plans, procedures, and measurable outcomes
Experience managing projects, including prioritization, goal setting, and deadline management
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Demonstrated commitment to user-centered service and ability to work effectively with diverse users and communities
Commitment to Indigenization, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (IEDIA), with willingness to learn and apply IEDIA principles in the role
Evidence of commitment to professional development and scholarly engagement.

Nice To Haves

Experience supervising unionized and/or frontline staff
Experience with borrowing and lending services in a consortial or shared services environment (e.g. Omni and the Automated Fulfillment Network within OCUL)
Experience using library services platforms (e.g. Alma and Primo) to manage circulation and interlibrary loan functions, reporting, and statistical analysis
Knowledge of emerging library technologies, trends in academic librarianship, and developments in higher education that impact library services
Demonstrated experience improving accessibility in documents, communications and/or service delivery
Experience in Copyright as it pertains to interlibrary loan and Resource Sharing

Responsibilities

Provides operational leadership for the daily functioning of Access Services, including the Ask Us Desk, Ask the Library chat, borrowing and lending services, and interlibrary loan.
Manages staff, including performance management, in a service-focused environment.
Translates strategic direction into operational plans, procedures, and measurable outcomes.
Manages projects, including prioritization, goal setting, and deadline management.
Fosters a collaborative and supportive environment that empowers employees.
Promotes the visibility of Access Services work across the library.
Identifies opportunities for the team to collaborate with colleagues and contribute toward shared library goals.
Develops and maintains strong collaborative relationships with colleagues in similar roles at other institutions.
Stays informed about emerging trends and technologies in Access Services, including borrowing and lending, user experience, and frontline service delivery in academic libraries.
Supports learning and growth through mentorship, collaboration, and opportunities to build leadership capacity.