Part-Time Circulation Assistant

Location: Utica, NY Category: Staff Job Type: Part-time Non-Exempt Posted On: Thu Oct 15 2026 Job Description:

Position Summary:

In this dynamic role, the incumbent will play a vital part in ensuring the smooth operation of our library by assisting students, faculty, and staff with their Access Services and Library needs. Will be responsible for checking out and returning library materials, maintaining accurate records, and providing excellent customer service. Supervises student and graduate assistants during shifts, coordinating with the primary student supervisors. May assist in processing reserves and interlibrary loans. In charge of the library when a librarian is not on duty. Responsible for opening and closing the library. May cross-train in other areas while still performing the duties of circulation assistant. Monitors and responds to emails in several accounts. Works closely with the Reference Librarian: Coordinator of Access Services and the entire Access Services team to ensure excellent public service, achieve department goals, and advance the library as a space for studying and learning.

Responsibilities:

• Charges and discharges library materials for patrons, including books from the main collection, course reserves, and library laptops. Provides directional information and refers library users to appropriate reference areas.

• Provides primary point of contact for phone calls to the main library line. Monitors library email accounts.

• Assists patrons in finding books or journals and provides basic reference assistance when no librarian is on duty.

• Interprets and enforces library policy when a librarian is not on duty, and is responsible for maintaining an atmosphere conducive to studying and research.

• Supervises student assistants working in their duties.

• Assists in shelving, shelf-reading, shifting, and cleaning of collections. Conducts searches for missing materials, identifies materials in need of replacement or repair and forwards to the Coordinator of Circulation Services.

• Assists with interlibrary loan and reserve processing as needed.

• Contributes to evaluation of departmental policies and procedures, and creates documentation and records as required.

• Follows procedures for opening and closing the library at established hours. Makes sure the building is secure at closing.

• Reports maintenance issues and relays pertinent information to library staff.

• Maintains patron records and their confidentiality.

• Performs other duties as assigned and/or assists with special projects as are required by circumstance.

• Works with supervisor to develop specific goals that support Utica University's operational plans. This is done at least annually through the annual performance evaluation process, however review of goals will occur throughout the year.

• Responsible for working with supervisor and other team members to achieve successful results on all established individual and departmental goals and key performance indicators.

Job Requirements:

Education and Experience:

• 2 yr. degree required.

• Supervisory experience desirable.

Skills/Abilities:

• Adaptability with new and emerging technologies; must be able to work with desktop applications and the internet and demonstrate the ability to learn new systems timely and efficiently.

• Ability to deal courteously and effectively with a wide variety of constituents.

• Excellent communication skills.

• Ability to work accurately with attention to detail.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

• Ability to adapt to changes in workflow and procedures.

• Ability to work well independently and in a team environment.

• Ability to organize time and work assignments effectively.

• Ability to train and supervise work-study students.

• Knowledge of library principles, practices, and terminology is desirable.

Supervisory Responsibility:

• Supervises the work of library student assistants.

Additional Information:

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

EEO Statement

Utica University is committed to equal opportunity and creating a welcoming work environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to veteran status, disability, citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, or protected status under applicable local, state, or federal law.

Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans

Utica University is a comprehensive, independent, private institution founded in 1946 to offer options for higher education study to veterans returning from the Second World War. More than seventy years since veterans returned from WWII, this tradition of serving veterans is still held in high regard here at Utica University, and we are proud to welcome veterans as students and as valued members of our faculty and professional staff.