Library Assistant
Department: University Library
FTE: 1.0
Status: Permanent
Competition No.: 13047-C
Salary Information: $3,098.55 to $4,182.97 per month (Operational Services, Phase 4). The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Primary Purpose: To provide high level client services within the Special Resources Portfolio, with specific focus to the Special Collections and University Archives units; and to develop and maintain resources for the discovery and promotion of existing and newly acquired materials within both Special Collections and University Archives.
Nature of Work: Reporting to the Supervisor, Special Collections and working closely with the Special Collections Librarian and members of the University Archives staff, the technical duties require a detailed working knowledge of digital imaging technologies, website design tools, and content management systems. Duties involve frequent interaction with students, faculty and/or experienced visiting researchers as well as supervisors, peers, staff etc. The work is highly detailed, with considerable intellectual demands, and considerable judgment and decision making is required on a daily basis. The ability to work effectively in an evolving and innovative environment and balance competing deadlines, priorities and tasks is essential. The need to be flexible to meet expectations is required. The incumbent works independently to solve problems with assistance by the supervisor, the Special Collections Librarian and University Archives staff members for the resolution of more complex issues and reference questions. Over time, the incumbent will gain increased knowledge of the collections in both Special Collections and University Archives, and develop expertise relating to the procedures and intellectual work involved in the management of unique and archival materials.
Typical
Duties:
Undertakes work on a wide variety of digitization projects including creating,
customizing and maintaining websites to promote existing or newly accessioned
special collection materials; prepares and adds descriptions and digital
content to content management systems; scans materials and trains others in
scanning procedures; creates searchable PDFs, captioning and/or providing
subject headings and/or metadata; undertakes all aspects of arrangement and
description of archival materials; provides information and research assistance
to clients; instructs patrons in the use of the library search systems, with
particular emphasis on finding aids for unique collections, and also including
the library catalogue, electronic resources and the internet; refers clients to
other institutions for similar resources; contributes to the development of
physical exhibitions and displays; and other special projects and duties as
assigned.
Qualifications
Education: Library Technician Diploma (preferably with a course(s) on
archives), Archives Technician Diploma, or University undergraduate degree
(preferably in the humanities or social sciences); recent education in the provision of reference and information services for
libraries or archives.
Experience: Relevant library/archives and public services experience; demonstrated experience with descriptive/metadata structures (e.g. Dublin Core, Rules for Archival Description) including the application of titles, subject headings, physical description, etc.; experience with a variety of digitization equipment such as digital cameras, scanners, and AV equipment, OCR applications, and file formats used for digital preservation (e.g. TIFF, PDF); and experience using Microsoft Office applications in a networked environment. The following would be considered assets: experience with content management software (e.g. CONTENTdm, Islandora, dSpace); experience developing, designing and maintaining webpages using content management systems (e.g. Drupal or Cascade); experience with graphic design for posters, banners or logos and associated imaging software; and experience with preparation and installation of exhibitions.
Skills: Demonstrated knowledge of Canadiana from a historical, political or literary perspective; ability to use a variety of web creation tools and digital imaging software; ability to analyze collections, apply appropriate organization schemes, and write descriptive summaries regarding their scope and provenance; ability to learn and apply knowledge of digitization processes, standards and equipment; demonstrated creativity for design work with graphics, webpage design or thematic projects; aptitude to learn archival practices; aptitude to learn and apply Rules of Archival Description in the creation of EAD finding aids; ability to demonstrate diplomacy and discretion and to be sensitive to issues of confidentiality and privacy relating to collections being processed and researcher inquiries; demonstrates the competencies required for reference work; demonstrated effectiveness in providing reference services; demonstrated flexibility to adapt to change; ability to support others in the change process; demonstrated ability to use and learn a variety of software and online tools; strong interpersonal skills and effective written and verbal communication skills; reliable, dependable, and self-motivated; demonstrated ability to use judgment and apply effective investigative, analytical and problem-solving skills; demonstrated ability to organize work, set priorities, meet deadlines, work independently, use initiative, and effectively handle disruptions; excellent attention to detail; demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with others in a team environment; possesses a tactful, responsive, pleasant and effective manner in all personal interactions; demonstrated proficiency with relevant III Millennium modules particularly the circulation module, the library website, the online public catalogue, library databases, and other online information sources; possesses the physical ability to perform moderately heavy lifting; proficient and accurate keyboarding skills.
This position is in scope of CUPE 1975.
Please apply no later than March 26, 2013
Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Jill Mierke, Director of Human Resources for the University Library at 966-5930.
Be sure to apply online as emailed applications will not be accepted.
The University of Saskatchewan is strongly committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that empowers all employees to reach their full potential. All members of the university community share a responsibility for developing and maintaining an environment in which differences are valued and inclusiveness is practiced. The university welcomes applications from those who will contribute to the diversity of our community. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.
