Public Services Specialist (part - time)

The Position:

Public Services Specialist (Part-time)

Job Summary: Muhlenberg College invites applications for a part-time Public Services Specialist to provide overall public services as well as building supervision of Trexler Library. This position is responsible for the management of the lending services desk and supervision of student assistants staffing service desks. The successful candidate will provide informational and directional assistance to users, serve as a liaison between users and other library staff by making referrals as appropriate.

Schedule: At Muhlenberg, we value your work/life balance and are pleased to offer this part-time opportunity with a fixed schedule of Noon – 5PM on Saturdays and Noon – 7PM on Sundays. This part-time schedule is approximately 12 hours per week during the academic semesters, plus one additional week each term. This part-time position is budgeted for a maximum of 400 hours per year.

The College & Surrounding Area: Founded in 1848, Muhlenberg College is a private, residential, liberal arts college offering baccalaureate and graduate programs. At Muhlenberg, we are committed to a campus community that ensures students, faculty, and staff of all backgrounds feel welcome, respected, valued and included. The College provides an intensely challenging, supportive environment centered around a rigorous academic curriculum designed to prepare students for lives of leadership and meaning in a dynamic, global society. The academic program is amplified by a range of innovative programming: comprehensive and intentional residence-life programming, expansive experiential learning requirements, and an innovative coaching program designed to maximize every student's performance and potential. Part of eastern Pennsylvania's scenic Lehigh Valley, Allentown is a diverse city of 125,000, Pennsylvania's third-largest, located just 60 miles north of Philadelphia and 90 miles west of New York City. The Lehigh Valley, which also includes neighboring cities Bethlehem and Easton, is one of the fastest growing regions in the state and the Northeast, leading Pennsylvania in population growth for people aged 18–34. Home to a vibrant arts scene, extensive parks and recreational opportunities, a rich blend of diverse cuisine, and so much more.

Characteristic duties and responsibilities:

• Open, close, secure, and provide general oversight of the library facility.
• Assist with public services, such as circulation, interlibrary loan, reserves, and reference.
• Ensure that student employees are working effectively and report their performance to the relevant supervisor.
• Assist users in accessing major library tools and equipment, e.g. catalog, A-V equipment, etc.
• Answer basic queries received in person or by phone and refer patrons with complex questions to the appropriate personnel.
• Execute emergency procedures as necessary in communication with library administration and Campus Safety.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; an associate degree in library science or experience working in a library is preferred.
• Excellent customer service experience; demonstrated success in working with the public and a strong commitment to library services.
• Working knowledge of, or a desire to learn, general library operations, information resources, computers, and library security concerns.
• Ability to work and interact effectively with diverse groups of people including coworkers and library users made up of community members, faculty, staff, and students.
• Ability to respond appropriately to emergency situations, maintain a welcoming studying and work environment, and employ good judgment in the resolution of disputes.
• Excellent oral and written communications skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive academic and professional environment where all members of our campus community are respected, valued, can succeed, and thrive.
• Successful completion of satisfactory background checks including but not limited to education verification, criminal background, and child abuse clearance.

To apply, upload your complete application package as a single PDF document. A complete application package includes: 1) cover letter; 2) resume; 3) a separate statement speaking to how your professional experience will contribute to a more inclusive community at Muhlenberg; and 4) names/contact information for three professional references. Application review will continue until the position is filled. To initiate your application, use the APPLY button.

An Equal Opportunity Employer, Muhlenberg College is committed to valuing and enhancing diversity and encourages applications from individuals who can contribute to the diversity of our community. Muhlenberg College does not discriminate against any person based on age, ancestry, color, disability, gender, gender identity, genetics, national or ethnic origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, veteran status or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local laws, in its education programs and activities, including admissions and employment. Muhlenberg College does not discriminate on the basis of sex as required by Title IX.