Special Collections Student Assistant (FWS) - Special and Area Studies Collections

University of Florida•Gainesville, FL

6d•Onsite

About The Position

This position involves working at the main desk in the Grand Reading Room of the Special and Area Studies Collections. Responsibilities include patron registration, enforcing rules, ensuring the security of materials, providing reference assistance, shelving and organizing library materials, retrieving requested items, assisting patrons with computers and scanners, and working with unique manuscript materials. The role also includes creating folder lists, completing scanning projects, conducting occasional research, and maintaining the library environment by enforcing the No Food/Drink policy.

Requirements

Have an approved Federal Word Study Permit for 2026.
Ability to work courteously and effectively with others.
Ability to work with attention to detail.
Ability to follow both written and spoken instructions and procedures.
Ability to manage time and commitments including scheduled work hours.
Applicants should provide proof of FWS award for Fall 2026.

Nice To Haves

Ability to lift 25 pound boxes and stand on stools and ladders.
Previous experience in any library setting.
Good database and web searching skills.
Ability to work independently once trained.

Responsibilities

Work at the main desk in the Grand Reading Room.
Register patrons and make them aware of rules.
Provide a secure presence at the desk to ensure protection and security of materials.
Provide patrons with reference assistance.
Shelve and organize materials in the library.
Keep sections in order by checking the call numbers, straightening the shelves, reporting problems.
Retrieve requested items for patrons.
Assist patrons with computers and scanners.
Work with unique and invaluable manuscript materials by sorting, refoldering, and reboxing items.
Create folder lists using Microsoft Word, Excel, or other computer programs.
Perform tasks and projects as assigned by archivists and curators.
Complete scanning projects as needed.
Occasionally conduct research by looking through documents and books.
Help maintain library environment by ensuring that the No Food/Drink policy is observed.