The University of British Columbia (UBC) is hiring a Library Services Assistant to provide essential front-line support at the UBC Okanagan Library. In this role, you will create a welcoming environment at the Service Desk, answer a wide range of patron questions, and perform key operational tasks. You’ll work collaboratively with library staff and contribute to the development of new services.

What You'll Do

Provide library assistance at the Service Desk, creating a positive and welcoming customer service environment.
Answer reference questions using UBC Okanagan Library resources including the catalogue, online databases and electronic resources; refer questions to subject specialists as appropriate.
Answer questions concerning library resources and services; provide assistance to patrons using library resources and technology.
Explain library policies and procedures to patrons; report problems to designated individuals or departments.
Provide circulation services, such as charging, renewing and discharging items.
Create and update patron records, accounts and item records, including the creation of brief item records and barcode maintenance.
Open and close the Library.
Accept fine payments, including processing debit transactions.
Shelve library material and assist with ongoing stacks maintenance.
Assist librarians with orientation or instructional sessions; prepare support or instructional materials for students and faculty as directed; complete reference projects as assigned.
Participate in team meetings, including ongoing training sessions.
Assist with background research to support development of new library services and initiatives.
Participate in evaluations of resources on trial and provide feedback.
Provide support for processes and procedures on collections, including donations, deselection, and inventories.
Compile statistics on a variety of library services including collections, public service instruction, etc.
Assist with processing reserves, interlibrary loans, document delivery, and media booking tasks as necessary.
Perform other duties or projects as assigned.

What We're Looking For

Completion of a two-year Library Technician Diploma, or equivalent educational experience.
Minimum one (1) year recent experience in an academic library environment, or an equivalent combination of experiences in other library or work settings.
Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own.
Demonstrated commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Excellent customer service delivery skills in an in person setting.
Will sit/stand for up to 2 hours while working at a service point.
Knowledge of using an integrated library system.
Computer experience and effective keyboarding skills.
Experience using standard workplace software such as MS Word, Excel, and database applications.
Physical ability to handle library collection materials: ability to pull/push book cart, up to 50 lbs, occasionally; ability to twist, bend, lift, reach up to 5 lbs/ book on a daily basis.

Nice to Have

Knowledge of library policies and procedures is an asset.
Effective at multi-tasking, organization and attention to detail.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to deal with a diversity of people in a calm, courteous, and effective manner.
Ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines, and work in a team environment.
Ability to exercise tact, courtesy, discretion and sound judgment.
Ability to apply previously learned concepts to new situations and/or technology.
Ability to follow and carry out instructions.
Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and under limited supervision.
Ability to operate a normal range of library equipment.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Technical Stack

Integrated library system
MS Word
Excel
Database applications

Team & Environment

Works under the supervision of a Library Services Coordinator and reports to the Library Services Manager. You will be part of the UBCO Library staff team, participating in meetings, training, and skills-building events.

Benefits & Compensation

Compensation: $26.10 - $29.93 CAD per hour.

Work Mode

This is an onsite position located at UBC Okanagan.

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.