Library Assistant, Hirsh Health Sciences Library/Tufts University (Boston)
This is a benefits-eligible, part-time position for 20 hours per week. Hours are afternoons and Fridays until 7:00 p.m. This is an on-site position.
What You'll Do
The Library Reference Assistant is responsible for carrying out the daily activities of the Library Service Desk in an effective, customer-oriented, and professional manner. The position supports patrons' access to library resources and services; operates the circulation system; maintains patron records; assists with printing and scanning; answers basic reference questions; communicates library policies; and supports Library Service Desk statistics and Interlibrary Loan functions.
Responsibilities include:
Customer Service
-Provides outstanding customer service to internal and external customers.
-Assists library users with circulating HHSL materials (borrowing and check-in).
-Locates items in the HHSL library catalog and beyond.
-Disseminates and elucidates library policy to patrons.
-Registers new patrons.
-Troubleshoots printer/scanner and computer problems and refers to University IT as needed.
-Assists with routine Circulation functions such as reserves processing and intra-University Requests processing as needed.
-Serves as the sole permanent staff member on duty Friday evenings until closing.
-Provides basic reference and research service.
-Makes timely and appropriate referrals for questions and problems to the Research and Instruction Librarians.
-Monitors library chat service.
-Maintains Library Service Desk supplies.
Technology
-Tracks borrowing and overdues.
-Records statistics and provides back-up for Interlibrary Loan service.
-Contributes to the Circulation Department wiki, blog, and Library knowledge base.
-Assists in daily statistics recording.
Additional Responsibilities
-Other circulation or Research & Instruction department-related projects and duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Basic Requirements:
-Knowledge and experience typically acquired by an Associate's Degree
-1-2 years related experience
-Library circulation systems: MS Office products
Preferred Qualifications:
-At least 1-2 years experience in a library, academic or special
-Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
-Strong commitment to outstanding public service.
-Ability to work collaboratively in a team and independently.
-Enthusiasm and initiative, and the ability to prioritize diverse responsibilities and meet deadlines.
-Good organizational skills.
-High-level problem-solving and technical skills.
-Ability to meet and exceed customer needs and expectations.
-Comfortable with various technologies and programs.
Full/Part Time
Part Time
Education
NA
Salary Range
$20.90 - $28.90 / hour
Salary Notes
Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; new hires can expect pay between the min and max
Closing Date
How to Apply
Please apply on the Tufts Careers website with a resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, please briefly address your interest in public-facing library services and your ability to work the required schedule (afternoons and Friday evenings until 7:00 p.m.).
Posted
2026-07-07