Acquisitions Assistant

University of Victoria; Victoria; On-site; CAD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established institution seeks a detail-oriented Acquisitions Assistant to manage library materials, including print and electronic resources. This role involves processing orders and invoices, troubleshooting access issues, and collaborating with staff and vendors. Join a dynamic team committed to fostering an inclusive environment while supporting the library’s diverse collection management needs. If you have a passion for libraries and excellent communication skills, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years experience in a similar role, preferably in a post-secondary environment.
• Library Technician diploma or equivalent is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Order and receive all library materials, including print and electronic books.
• Process invoices, track order information, and communicate with vendors.

Skills

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

Time Management

Effective Communication

Problem Solving

Library Collection Management Knowledge

Bibliographic Record Interpretation

Technical Troubleshooting

Adaptability

Database Search Strategies

Business Communication

Education

Secondary School Diploma

Library Technician Diploma

Tools

MS Office Suite

Library Management Systems

Job description

Under the direction of the Head, Acquisitions and Electronic Resources, and reporting to the Acquisitions and Electronic Resources Supervisor, the Acquisitions Assistant is responsible for ordering and receiving all library materials, including print and electronic books, standing orders, and out-of-print, rare, or difficult to find materials. The Acquisitions Assistant processes invoices for payment, tracks and maintains order information in the Library Management System, and communicates with librarians, staff, and vendors about order details.

The Acquisitions Assistant supports the management of the library’s electronic resources by using knowledge of the library’s collections, databases, and Library Management System to investigate and resolve access issues. This position communicates with vendors to report access problems, submit claims for materials, and confirm renewals and cancellations.

The Acquisitions and Electronic Resources Unit is situated within the University of Victoria Libraries’ Collection Management Services Unit and is a highly collaborative and dynamic working environment that works with other units across the Libraries and directly with library patrons, University staff, and faculty.

Experience

This role requires a minimum of two (2) years of recent experience in a similar position, preferably in a post-secondary or institutional environment, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive and respectful working and learning environment.
• Ability to prioritize and manage time and tasks with attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and tailor communication style for different audiences.
• Ability to problem solve by using judgement, independent thinking and/or analysis.
• Knowledge of the academic library collection management landscape.
• Ability to interpret bibliographic records as they relate to ordering, claiming, and accessing materials.
• Ability to investigate and troubleshoot technical issues.
• Ability to adapt to changes in workflows and technologies.
• Understanding of databases and search strategies that allow for efficient retrieval of relevant information.
• Experience composing various business communications, particularly emails.
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Experience with library resource procurement is considered an asset.
• Experience working with Library Management Systems is considered an asset.
  
  

Specialized Knowledge/Education

Secondary school diploma or equivalent. Library Technician diploma or similar is an asset.