APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

Penn State Brandywine is seeking a Library Services Associate to join its library team and contribute to efficient, user-centered library services that span collections, course reserves, technology, and outreach efforts.

Penn State Brandywine Campus Library provides patrons with access to all resources and services offered by the Pennsylvania State University Libraries - one of the Top 10 research libraries in North America.

The Library Services Associate is an important part of a small team and plays a key role in delivering high-quality library services by supporting public services, collection access and maintenance, course reserves services, library technology, and user-focused engagement initiatives.

Dependability, an outstanding work ethic, and the ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment is essential as the Library Services Associate will work collaboratively with colleagues inside the library, throughout the Brandywine campus, and across all of Penn State’s Libraries, balancing front-line customer service with operational and technical responsibilities.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Public Services

• Deliver front-line customer service at the circulation desk, including materials, equipment, and study room support

• Respond to patron inquiries, provide basic research assistance, and manage user accounts (setup, verification, service guidance)

• Perform opening/closing procedures and ensure service point readiness

• Supervise library operations when working independently and provide guidance to student employees and part-time staff

• Maintain safe, orderly, and functional library spaces; assist with light facility upkeep

Circulation & Collections 

• Support collection access and maintenance, including shelving, labelling, inventory, and resolving missing items

• Process holds and interlibrary loan requests, including retrieval, distribution, and shipping

• Update catalog and database records to ensure accuracy

• Assist with periodicals and collection management projects

Course Reserves 

• Coordinate course reserve requests with faculty, ensuring timely processing and copyright compliance

• Maintain accurate reserve records across systems and spreadsheets

• Manage reserve purchasing and tracking; process and shelve materials

• Identify and improve course reserve workflows

Programming & Outreach 

• Assist in the planning, coordination, and implementation of library programs and outreach, including staffing campus engagement opportunities, pop-up libraries, tabling at campus events, and outreach activities 

• Design and install tabletop displays, small-scale book spotlights, and interactive elements 

• Create promotional materials using Microsoft Office 365 applications and design tools (e.g., Canva) 

• Assist with social media content creation, including graphics, captions, and accessibility compliance 

Administrative & Operational 

• Contribute to workflow improvements, documentation, and service enhancements

• Offer ideas and feedback to improve library services, programs, and operations; create library guides and web resources as requested 

• Maintain accurate records across library systems and respond to departmental email communications

• Support projects, data collection, and internal documentation

• Collaborate with staff and assist in training and guidance of student employees

• Handle library mail and deliveries

Technology 

• Monitor and troubleshoot public computers, printers, and library equipment

• Support lending, maintenance, and tracking of technology assets

• Document issues, coordinate repairs, and maintain inventory systems

• Share updates and training from the University Libraries and provide basic support for Apple and Microsoft systems

To complete the above responsibilities, the Library Services Associate will be required to move and pack boxes filled with books regularly.

As part of a team, the Library Services Associate will join all library staff in being cross trained to complete duties in other areas as needed.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

• Driven to provide excellent customer service in a public-facing environment

• Outstanding attention to detail with the ability to perform accurate work and maintain reliable records

• Effective written and verbal communication skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills; inclusive and respectful when working with others

• Outstanding organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities

• Ability to follow established procedures and apply policies consistently

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment

• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office or similar applications

• Reliability, adaptability, and a commitment to user-centered service

Physical Requirements (with or without reasonable accommodation):

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally and 10 pounds frequently

• Ability to bend, reach, and stand for extended periods

Preferred Qualifications (one or more):

• Experience working in a library, academic, or customer service environment

• Experience with library systems (e.g., integrated library systems, interlibrary loan systems, or course reserves platforms) 

• Experience supporting basic technology troubleshooting 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel or similar spreadsheets, including accurate data tracking and record management

• Familiarity with basic cataloging, collections maintenance, or records management practices

• Experience supporting programs, events, or outreach activities 

 

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Library Services Associate - Intermediate Support, this position requires: General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS) 2+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as Library Services Associate - Senior Support, this position requires: Associate Degree 4+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None

 

Important Application Instructions:

Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.

Additional Information:

This is a fully on-site position at the Penn State Brandywine Campus Library, which is located in Media, Pennsylvania.

The Library Services Associate will work Monday through Friday, during the library’s regular hours of operation, with occasional evening and weekend coverage required based on operational needs.

 

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

 

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

 

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $36,888.00 - $58,836.00.

 

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

 

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

 

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