Library Assistant

Job Summary:

The Library Assistant supports daily library operations, ensuring high-quality customer service and operational efficiency in alignment with OCOM Library’s mission to foster a professional, welcoming, responsive, and student-centered environment. This role provides reference assistance and support to faculty, students, and staff and requires strong communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.

Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but may vary based on staff and library coverage needs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide exceptional reference services, including locating physical and digital resources, assistance in navigating the library website, answering reference and research questions in person, by email, or via chat, and e-resource support.
• Perform circulation duties, such as circulating materials, assisting with checkout and self-checkout processes, and RapidILL interlibrary loan support.
• Provides reference support to students, faculty, and staff at the Information Desk during the following hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:00–3:00 p.m. (schedule subject to change).
• Process check-ins, check-outs, holds, renewals, and reserves.
• Conduct routine shelf checks to ensure materials are shelved accurately and properly maintained.
• Assists with the maintenance of electronic resources, the library website, and catalog.
• Troubleshoot access issues related to databases, authentication systems, and electronic subscriptions, escalating complex issues as appropriate to the Librarian.
• Compile and submit accurate library statistical reports.
• Create and design monthly library displays and flyers.
• Contribute to outreach initiatives and student engagement efforts.
• Assist and support the Librarian/Library Director with library initiatives that support continuous improvement and advancing information literacy.
• Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and others.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum two years of customer service experience in an academic library setting.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to learn Integrated Library Systems, specifically Ex Libris’s Alma and Springshare applications.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to provide basic research assistance using academic databases and scholarly resources.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Must be local to the Central Florida area.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in an academic health science library.
• Experience with Integrated Library Systems, specifically Ex Libris’s Alma and Springshare LibGuides.
• Experience supporting graduate or medical professional programs in higher education.
• Experience with troubleshooting e-resources and performing basic cataloging.
• Experience with Canva or other desktop publishing software.
• Experience with Apple products and Google Workspace applications.
• Familiarity with evidence-based medicine resources and health sciences databases (e.g., PubMed, AccessMedicine, or similar tools).

Key Competencies and Skills:

• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to listen and communicate positively and professionally.
• Strong public speaking skills
• Ability to relate well to a diverse student population and other constituencies.
• Ability to work independently and function effectively as a team member.
• Commitment to collaboration and team cohesion.
• Demonstrated initiative, problem-solving, and commitment to continuous professional growth.
• Comfort working with emerging technologies and evolving digital library platforms.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and push book carts.
• Ability to stand, sit, and work at a computer for extended periods

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)

• Retirement Plan (401k)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation & Public Holidays)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Professional development - continuing education opportunities to support your career growth.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.