Howard University
Assistant Librarian
Howard University - Washington, District Of Columbia, United States, 20599
Work at Howard University
Overview
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Overview
Library Assistant
The Library Assistant supports the daily operations of the Library Division and functions as the first point of engagement for the public, offering guidance, directional assistance, and a welcoming environment for all patrons. This role includes a mix of public service, administrative tasks, and hands-on support with rare materials and research services. The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, and committed to providing excellent service in a culturally significant and historically rich environment. This position supervises student employees. Public Services Function as the first point of engagement for the public, offering guidance and directional assistance to students, researchers, faculty, and guests. Welcome and orient all visitors to the Reading Room and broader MSRC environment. Ensure adherence to all library usage policies and protocols. Assist patrons with use of library equipment and basic research requests. Collections Support Assist with the inventory, shelving, and maintenance of rare books, periodicals, and vertical files. Retrieve requested materials from stacks or storage. Re-shelve and shift materials as needed to maintain order and accessibility. Prepare donated books and materials for accession and classification. Assist in reclassifying materials and updating catalog records in coordination with professional staff. Administrative & Technical Tasks Maintain the digital calendars of the center and coordination of visitors to the Reading Room. Receive and process mail and incoming shipments. Use Microsoft Office Suite and integrated library systems (e.g., Alma) to complete daily tasks. Track and report library statistics and complete monthly progress reports. Maintain supply inventories and support basic operational needs. Programs, Displays & Outreach Assist in the planning, setup, and takedown of events, programs, and exhibits. Help create and distribute print and digital promotional materials. Work with other MSRC divisions to ensure consistency across initiatives and services. General Support Participate in relevant professional development and training. Assist other staff members and student workers as needed. Perform other related duties as assigned. Principal Accountabilities Public Service & Patron Support Serve as the first point of contact for patrons by providing courteous, accurate, and timely assistance. Assist users in locating materials, using the online catalog, and understanding library policies and procedures. Support patrons with basic technology needs (printing, scanning, scheduling appointments, etc.). Circulation & Access Services Perform all circulation desk functions including ensuring Reading Room visitors adhere to the protocols of the center. Manage scheduling and logistics of visitors. Direct visitors to appropriate librarians, archivists, and curators for reference. Retrieve and reshelve books for library division appointments. Collection Maintenance Accurately shelve and organize books and other materials according to standard library classification systems. Conduct shelf reading, shifting, and inventory to maintain collection order and integrity. Assist with processing new acquisitions (barcoding, labeling, covering). Administrative & Clerical Support Maintain accurate records, data entry, and filing for technical services. Assist in preparing and distributing materials for programs, exhibits, and outreach events. Support data entry and materials handling. Performs duties as assigned. Compliance & Security Ensure compliance with library policies and procedures. Monitor use of library spaces, equipment, and resources to ensure a safe and respectful environment. Report security incidents, facility concerns, or policy violations to the appropriate personnel. Communication & Teamwork Maintain positive and professional interactions with patrons, colleagues, and supervisors. Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development as assigned. Share feedback and observations that can help improve library services or workflows. Core Competencies Provides courteous, accurate, and helpful service to all patrons; responds professionally to inquiries and service needs. Communicates clearly and effectively in both verbal and written forms; provides accurate information and follows instructions consistently. Uses library systems and basic office technology confidently; assists patrons with routine tech issues and adapts to new tools as needed. Maintains accuracy in shelving, data entry, and materials handling; ensures consistency and quality in all tasks. Manages time and tasks effectively; maintains orderly workspaces and follows established workflows. Works cooperatively with colleagues, contributes to a positive team culture, accepts feedback, and engages in group problem-solving. Adjusts to new procedures, technologies, and priorities with flexibility and a positive attitude; remains steady under pressure. Handles information and materials with integrity and discretion; adheres to library privacy policies and institutional standards. Demonstrates reliability, follows through on tasks independently, reports concerns promptly, and takes proactive steps to support operations. Minimum Requirements Bachelor's degree or equivalent. Minimum of 2 years of experience working in a library. Foundational knowledge of library classification systems. Experience working with rare books or library collections. Familiarity with library automation systems (especially Alma). Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook). Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills (oral and written). Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team. Ability to lift and move medium-weight boxes, carts, and library equipment. Preferred Qualifications Educational background or subject-area expertise in African American Studies, Africana Studies, Literature, History, or Cultural Studies. Experience creating digital or print outreach materials (e.g., Canva, Adobe Express). Demonstrated interest in African American history, archives, or cultural preservation. Compliance Salary Range Disclosure $52,000-$62,000
The Library Assistant supports the daily operations of the Library Division and functions as the first point of engagement for the public, offering guidance, directional assistance, and a welcoming environment for all patrons. This role includes a mix of public service, administrative tasks, and hands-on support with rare materials and research services. The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, and committed to providing excellent service in a culturally significant and historically rich environment. This position supervises student employees. Public Services Function as the first point of engagement for the public, offering guidance and directional assistance to students, researchers, faculty, and guests. Welcome and orient all visitors to the Reading Room and broader MSRC environment. Ensure adherence to all library usage policies and protocols. Assist patrons with use of library equipment and basic research requests. Collections Support Assist with the inventory, shelving, and maintenance of rare books, periodicals, and vertical files. Retrieve requested materials from stacks or storage. Re-shelve and shift materials as needed to maintain order and accessibility. Prepare donated books and materials for accession and classification. Assist in reclassifying materials and updating catalog records in coordination with professional staff. Administrative & Technical Tasks Maintain the digital calendars of the center and coordination of visitors to the Reading Room. Receive and process mail and incoming shipments. Use Microsoft Office Suite and integrated library systems (e.g., Alma) to complete daily tasks. Track and report library statistics and complete monthly progress reports. Maintain supply inventories and support basic operational needs. Programs, Displays & Outreach Assist in the planning, setup, and takedown of events, programs, and exhibits. Help create and distribute print and digital promotional materials. Work with other MSRC divisions to ensure consistency across initiatives and services. General Support Participate in relevant professional development and training. Assist other staff members and student workers as needed. Perform other related duties as assigned. Principal Accountabilities Public Service & Patron Support Serve as the first point of contact for patrons by providing courteous, accurate, and timely assistance. Assist users in locating materials, using the online catalog, and understanding library policies and procedures. Support patrons with basic technology needs (printing, scanning, scheduling appointments, etc.). Circulation & Access Services Perform all circulation desk functions including ensuring Reading Room visitors adhere to the protocols of the center. Manage scheduling and logistics of visitors. Direct visitors to appropriate librarians, archivists, and curators for reference. Retrieve and reshelve books for library division appointments. Collection Maintenance Accurately shelve and organize books and other materials according to standard library classification systems. Conduct shelf reading, shifting, and inventory to maintain collection order and integrity. Assist with processing new acquisitions (barcoding, labeling, covering). Administrative & Clerical Support Maintain accurate records, data entry, and filing for technical services. Assist in preparing and distributing materials for programs, exhibits, and outreach events. Support data entry and materials handling. Performs duties as assigned. Compliance & Security Ensure compliance with library policies and procedures. Monitor use of library spaces, equipment, and resources to ensure a safe and respectful environment. Report security incidents, facility concerns, or policy violations to the appropriate personnel. Communication & Teamwork Maintain positive and professional interactions with patrons, colleagues, and supervisors. Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development as assigned. Share feedback and observations that can help improve library services or workflows. Core Competencies Provides courteous, accurate, and helpful service to all patrons; responds professionally to inquiries and service needs. Communicates clearly and effectively in both verbal and written forms; provides accurate information and follows instructions consistently. Uses library systems and basic office technology confidently; assists patrons with routine tech issues and adapts to new tools as needed. Maintains accuracy in shelving, data entry, and materials handling; ensures consistency and quality in all tasks. Manages time and tasks effectively; maintains orderly workspaces and follows established workflows. Works cooperatively with colleagues, contributes to a positive team culture, accepts feedback, and engages in group problem-solving. Adjusts to new procedures, technologies, and priorities with flexibility and a positive attitude; remains steady under pressure. Handles information and materials with integrity and discretion; adheres to library privacy policies and institutional standards. Demonstrates reliability, follows through on tasks independently, reports concerns promptly, and takes proactive steps to support operations. Minimum Requirements Bachelor's degree or equivalent. Minimum of 2 years of experience working in a library. Foundational knowledge of library classification systems. Experience working with rare books or library collections. Familiarity with library automation systems (especially Alma). Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook). Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills (oral and written). Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team. Ability to lift and move medium-weight boxes, carts, and library equipment. Preferred Qualifications Educational background or subject-area expertise in African American Studies, Africana Studies, Literature, History, or Cultural Studies. Experience creating digital or print outreach materials (e.g., Canva, Adobe Express). Demonstrated interest in African American history, archives, or cultural preservation. Compliance Salary Range Disclosure $52,000-$62,000