Acquisitions Coordinator

Town of Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Amherst seeks an Acquisitions Coordinator to manage the acquisition, cataloging, and processing of library materials. You will order, track, and pay for items across multiple vendors and provide superb customer service at the reference desk in a fast-paced environment.

You will use Evergreen ILS for tracking, update MARC records, and contribute to cataloging and department workflows through modern technologies. Strong attention to detail and teamwork are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or equivalent, plus two years of post-secondary education or training in library science or related field, and two years of library technical services experience.
• Knowledge of library procedures and operations.
• Working knowledge of classification, cataloging, acquisitions, processing, and library computer systems.
• Ability to use OCLC and MARC records.

Responsibilities

• Perform all phases of acquisitions and prepare orders and correspondence.
• Interact with multiple vendors and track funds, invoices and order status.
• Edit MARC records and assist with cataloging of print and nonprint materials.
• Update department workflows using current technologies and Evergreen ILS features.
• Provide front-line customer service at the reference desk during shifts and assist patrons.

Skills

Library procedures

Cataloging

Acquisitions processing

Library computer systems

OCLC

MARC records

Customer service

Communication skills

Teamwork

Technology instruction

Detail oriented

Education

High school diploma + 2 yrs post-secondary in library science/related field

BA/4-year degree preferred

Tools

Evergreen ILS

Job description

AMHERST Acquisitions Coordinator Performs a variety of technical and clerical work in the acquisition, cataloging, and processing of library materials. Orders and tracks receipt and payment of library materials across multiple vendors. Provides exceptional customer service in a Fast-paced Environment At Assigned Reference Desk Shifts.

MAJOR DUTIES

Performs all phases of acquisitions as needed. Prepares orders and correspondence for library materials. Interacts with multiple vendors. Maintains system for tracking funds, invoices, and the status of orders. Utilizes Evergreen ILS acquisitions functionality for tracking of library materials. Reviews and inputs requests for orders. Checks against present holdings, finds bibliographic information, and works closely with internal professional staff (e.g., materials selectors; the business office). Imports and edits MARC records received from vendors, as needed. Catalogs and classifies print and nonprint materials, as assigned. May perform original cataloging, with classification and subject headings provided or reviewed by professional staff. Performs continuous editing of the online catalog, correcting errors found. Prepares reports as directed to assure catalog accuracy, such as record updates or cancelled orders. Takes a lead in updating department workflows using current technologies. Withdraws and supervises withdrawal of materials from the collections. Contacts the service provider for pick-up of withdrawn materials. Completely processes or supervises the processing of print and nonprint circulating library material using appropriate technology. Assures accuracy in all procedures. Provides customer service during regularly assigned shifts on a public service desk, performing tasks such as providing patron assistance, giving basic information and directions, charging and discharging materials, answering incoming calls, renewing patron library cards, and placing patron holds, etc. Participates on staff, consortia, town or library-organization committees as appropriate. Keeps current on topics relevant to technical services, acquisitions, collections or cataloging through professional development opportunities, as able. Works on special projects and performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from high school or equivalent, PLUS two years of post-secondary education or training in library science, liberal arts, education or a related field, AND at least two years of experience in library technical services OR any equivalent combination of education and experience which demonstrated the ability to successfully perform the responsibilities of the position
• Knowledge of library procedures and operations
• Working knowledge of classification, cataloging, acquisitions, processing, and library computer systems.
• Ability to use OCLC and MARC records
• Enthusiastic and service oriented
• Detail oriented with an exceptional attention to detail
• Excellent technology skills.
• Ability to deliver effective technology instruction to a wide range of users
• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written, with persons of diverse ethnic backgrounds
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle stressful situations
• Ability to work well as a part of a team and maintain effective work relationships with co-workers and the general public

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Four-year post-secondary education degree (e.g., BA)
• Bilingual capabilities