User Access and Services Assistant

Widener University is currently seeking a User and Access Services Assistantwho works cooperatively with library patrons, staff, and student workers to deliver excellent library service to the Widener Community. Demonstrating a strong customer service orientation, the Library Information Desk Assistant functions independently to fulfill the duties and responsibilities below.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to) :

Essential Duties:

• Staff the Library Information Desk, performing circulation activities such as checking materials in and out.
• Respond to basic patron queries in person, over the phone, via email and other modalities.
• Field questions about policy and escalate research questions to a Research, Instruction, and Outreach Librarian as appropriate.
• Adhere to access and circulation policies, consulting with the Head of User & Access Services as needed.
• Utilize library management system to provide library service.
• Oversee student workers in place of User & Access Services Evening Supervisor as needed.
• Open and/or close library according to established library hours schedule.
• Coordinate all aspects of library Course Reserves services.
• Collaborate with the Head of User & Access Services in regular assessment of library procedures and policies and with keeping unit documentation up to date.
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed.

Secondary Responsibilities:

• Retrieve and reshelf materials.
• Shelf read and shift collections.
• Collect data and maintain statistics.
• Assist with library projects as needed.
• Participate in periodic staff meetings and training.
• Assists in providing Virtual Assistance Services.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required) :

Required:

• High school diploma.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Experience using library services and resources, such as the online catalog and/or databases.
• Ability and willingness to learn new technology tools including generative AI.

Preferred:

• Some post-secondary education.
• Library work experience, including volunteer or internship.
• Experience with FOLIO library management system.
• Experience with Springshare products.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:

• Ability to bend, stoop, carry books, sit or stand for extended periods, and lift up to 20 pounds.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran.

Widener University, an independent, metropolitan, doctoral-intensive university, connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention and experiential learning are key components of the Widener Experience. Located in Chester, PA, Widener's main campus is nestled between Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE, with Law Schools located in both Harrisburg and Wilmington. For more information about the university, please visit our website at

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