The Thun Library at Penn State Berks is looking for a Libraries Specialist to assist library patrons with advanced requests, serve as a resource for other part-time library employees, and navigate service interruptions. Applicants must commit to working 15 hours per week (during open library hours), including evenings and weekends, with core hours changing during breaks and summer to align with the academic year. This position is ideal for non-students, students with experience supervising or working independently in a customer service setting, and current Student Library Assistants. All are encouraged to apply. No prior library experience is required; library training will be provided. 

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:   

• Welcome students, staff, faculty, and community members to the library 

• Check out/in books, equipment, and other library materials 

• Confirm study room reservations 

• Provide guidance on user accounts and library services 

• Follow library operation processes and procedures 

• May oversee library operations during opening or closing 

• Assist Student Library Assistants (SLAs) with service questions and override permissions 

• Address building concerns including, but not limited to, disruptive patron behavior or maintenance issues 

• Assist others with technology, referring to PSU IT when necessary 

• Answer general questions about the library and the Penn State Berks campus  

• Assist users and colleagues with advanced requests and support services 

• Refer in-depth questions to the library team and/or appropriate departments   

• Retrieve and shelve materials correctly in a 68,000+ item collection 

• Inform the library team of service concerns or suggestions 

Looking for these qualifications: 

• Customer service experience  

• Non-students, students with experience supervising or working independently in a customer service setting, and current Student Library Assistants

• Ability to clearly communicate through face-to-face and written communication  

• All members of the University Libraries community are responsible for, and expected to, exemplify and promote civility by following the University Libraries Civility Statement and Guidelines. 

What We Can Offer: 

• A supportive team to assist, train, and mentor you 

• Reasonable accommodations 

• Opportunities to work with Thun team members on special projects 

• A starting rate of $15.00 per hour  

To apply for this position, please submit: 

• Cover letter explaining why this opportunity is an ideal position for you 

• Resume 

• Morning, evening, and weekend availability during open hours (M-F 8:30am - 9pm and Sunday 2pm – 6pm)  

Applications will be reviewed beginning August 3, and interviews will be conducted through the end of September. If you have any questions, please contact Melissa Millar, Library Services Manager, at [email protected].