Job Abstract

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 an anticipated schedule of 20-25 hours per week during the fall and spring semesters, while classes are in session (late August through early December and mid-January through mid-May). The daily schedule includes flexibility in hours, with a start time between 6 PM - 7 PM, with the evening shift concluding at midnight. Specific days are flexible as well. This part-time position is budgeted for a maximum of 800 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. Muhlenberg College is dedicated to shaping creative, compassionate, collaborative leaders through rigorous academic programs in the arts, humanities, business, natural sciences and social sciences; as well as pre-professional programs in law, health and theology; and progressive workforce-focused post-baccalaureate certificates and master’s degrees. As part of eastern Pennsylvania’s scenic Lehigh Valley, Allentown is a diverse city of 125,000, located just 60 miles north of Philadelphia and 90 miles west of New York City. As the third largest city in the state, and along with neighboring Bethlehem and Easton, the region is home to a vibrant arts scene, extensive parks and recreational opportunities, and a rich blend of diverse cuisine. For more information, visit Life in the Lehigh Valley | Muhlenberg College and check out Allentown here.

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.

• Light hardware and software maintenance and troubleshooting.

• 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.

While no one person may possess all the qualifications listed below, the ideal candidate will have many of the following professional experiences and characteristics:

• 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.

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

• A flexible team player open to nights and weekend schedules.

• 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.

• Successful completion of satisfactory background checks

To apply, upload your complete application package as a single PDF document. A complete application package includes: 1) cover letter; 2) resume; 3) separate diversity statement summarizing professional experiences and capacities that prepare you to contribute to our diversity, equity, and inclusion goals; 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 recruiting and retaining outstanding faculty and staff from racial and ethnic groups that have been traditionally underrepresented in higher education. Please visit our Diversity & Inclusion page for additional information about Muhlenberg's commitment to supporting a diverse and inclusive community.

Muhlenberg College Annual Crime Reporting- As provided by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1998, prospective employees of Muhlenberg College are entitled to request and receive a copy of the College Annual Security Report (ASR). The ASR can be accessed at http://www.muhlenberg.edu/annualsecurityreport . This report includes crime statistics on certain reportable crimes, as well as Muhlenberg College Safety Policies. The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus safety and police, such as policies concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault and other matters. Anyone wishing a paper copy of the ASR may contact the Campus Safety Office at 484-664-3112.