Kansas State University

About This Role:

Kansas State University Libraries invites applications and nominations for the position of Library User Services Specialist. This full-time, non-tenure track position reports to the Head of the Library User Services Department and works in a highly collaborative environment with faculty, staff, and student employees who are dedicated to providing all library users with exceptional services.

The Specialist will be a member of the Hale Library Help’s supervisory team. As such, they will provide access and reference services to library patrons who visit Hale Library’s Help Desk or who contact the libraries’ main help services by phone, chat, or e-mail. They will also meet frequently with other members of the team to explore opportunities to improve user services and to assist the team’s Student Supervisor in training and mentoring the Hale Library Help Student Specialists.

 In addition, the Specialist will coordinate the operations of the Resource Link @ Hale Library in the Dave and Ellie Everitt Learning Commons. The Resource Link provides student-centered services on campus with an opportunity to expand their reach to students in order to holistically support their academic success.  Examples of partners would include the Writing Center, the Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry, the Academic Achievement Center’s Tutoring Program, and the Career Center.      

Primary Responsibilities:

• Provide excellent customer support in all tasks, including accurately and effectively communicating library policies and procedures to patrons.
• Provide circulation and reference assistance in-person, and through chat, e-mail, and phone.
• Assist with training and mentoring of the Hale Library Help Student employees and help administer policies established by their supervisor.
• Serve on one or more of K-State Libraries’ cross-departmental committees or task forces.
• Establish and maintain regular communication with the Resource Link @ Hale Library’s partners.
• Maintain the calendars for the consultation rooms and tables that make up the Resource Link @ Hale Library.
• Assist with assessment and promotion of the Resource Link @ Hale Library.

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits 

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and promotes inclusion.  The University actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others.  The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Demonstrated experience conducting research with library resources (e.g., discovery systems, catalogs, databases, archives)
• Demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service in areas such as in-person reference, IM reference, reserves, or circulation
• Demonstrated record of success working with or providing services for diverse groups
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with colleagues or team members both in writing and orally
• Experience indicating a strong willingness to contribute to a collegial working environment
• Strong computer skills and the ability to learn new systems

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree in Library Science or its equivalent
• Demonstrated ability to promote student-centered services to a campus community
• Experience with successful supervision, training, or mentoring of undergraduates
• Experience performing highly detailed work

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment

How to Apply:

Combine the following documents into a single PDF file and upload it along with your completed application:

1. Letter of application. To greatly strengthen your application, please apply your communication skills to clearly address the position responsibilities and qualifications listed above, and demonstrate how your work style, vision, and other distinctive qualities would enhance our organization.
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Names and contact information for three professional references

Review of Applications Begins:

Immediately. For best consideration, apply by March 15, 2021.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans and actively seeks diversity among its employees.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.