Join the Penn State University Libraries Team as a Resource Sharing Specialist
We are seeking a highly organized and customer-focused Resource Sharing Specialist to join our Interlibrary Loan (ILL) Borrowing team at Penn State University Libraries. As a key member of our team, you will play a critical role in providing resource sharing services to our students, faculty, and staff, as well as to external libraries. If you have a passion for library services, excellent communication skills, and experience with interlibrary loan systems, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
About Penn State University Libraries
Penn State University Libraries is a vibrant and diverse community of librarians, staff, and students working together to advance the university's teaching, research, and engagement mission. With 24 campuses across the state, our libraries serve as hubs for learning, discovery, and community engagement. We are committed to providing exceptional library services, fostering a culture of inclusion, and promoting diversity, equity, and sustainability.
Job Summary
The Resource Sharing Specialist will report to the Manager of Interlibrary Loan and be part of the ILL Borrowing team. The successful candidate will be responsible for performing searches across multiple catalogs, databases, and web resources to locate requested materials, processing incoming and outgoing materials, and communicating with patrons and external libraries to address questions and resolve request issues.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform searches across multiple catalogs, databases, and web resources to locate requested materials, including books, articles, and other resources.
- Participate in rotation with borrowing team members to process incoming and outgoing materials, and request queues in ILLiad.
- Communicate with patrons and external libraries to address questions and resolve request issues, providing excellent customer service and support.
- Collaborate with the ILL team and libraries colleagues to provide quality service for our users, ensuring that resources are delivered efficiently and effectively.
- Maintain accurate records and reports, including statistics and workflow data, to inform service improvements and resource allocation.
Requirements and Qualifications
Essential Qualifications:
- Associate's degree in a relevant field, such as library science, information technology, or a related field.
- A minimum of four years of relevant experience in library services, interlibrary loan, or a related field.
- Familiarity with interlibrary loan systems, such as ILLiad or Worldshare.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to work effectively with patrons, external libraries, and internal stakeholders.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritizing multiple tasks and deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with an integrated library system, such as Alma or Voyager.
- Familiarity with cataloging and metadata standards, such as RDA or MARC.
- Experience with document delivery services, such as scanning and digitization.
- Knowledge of library services and trends, including resource sharing and interlibrary loan best practices.
Skills and Competencies
To succeed in this role, you will need:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex systems and workflows.
- Attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Flexibility and adaptability, with the ability to work in a rapidly changing environment.
- Commitment to providing excellent customer service and support.
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits
At Penn State University Libraries, we are committed to supporting the professional growth and development of our staff. As a Resource Sharing Specialist, you will have opportunities to:
- Develop your skills and expertise in interlibrary loan and resource sharing services.
- Collaborate with colleagues across the libraries and university community.
- Participate in training and professional development programs, including workshops, conferences, and online courses.
- Contribute to service improvements and innovations, shaping the future of our libraries and services.
Work Environment and Company Culture
We offer a dynamic and supportive work environment, with:
- A remote work option, with the opportunity to work from home one day a week.
- A collaborative and inclusive team culture, with regular team meetings and social events.
- Access to state-of-the-art technology and systems, including interlibrary loan software and online resources.
- A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment.
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
We offer a competitive salary range of $38,300 - $55,500, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition, you will be eligible for:
- A comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement savings, and paid time off.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- A dynamic and supportive work environment, with a focus on work-life balance.
How to Apply
If you are a motivated and customer-focused individual with experience in library services or interlibrary loan, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application, including your resume and cover letter, through our online application portal.
We are an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We value diversity and inclusion, and we are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment.
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