Acquisitions Receiving Specialist

University-of-Housto; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Houston System invites applications for an Acquisitions Receiving Specialist in the University Libraries. This role coordinates daily library operations including serials, processing, and reference services, with emphasis on accuracy in record management in Alma.

Responsibilities include managing receipt of print materials, coordinating with staff, preparing documentation for orders, and assisting with cataloging and interlibrary loan handling; requires a bachelor’s degree and

Qualifications

• Adaptability and flexibility in managing tasks to meet changes in procedures, processes, and technology.
• Sound judgment and effective, independent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work well in cross-functional teams and with colleagues across departments.
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight on a day-to-day basis.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily operations of library functions such as serials, ordering, and reference processing.
• Train and coordinate work activities of library specialists and assistants.
• Receive and process reserves and library loan requests.
• Review bibliographic records and submit work orders for cataloging or processing.
• Develop and maintain documentation for receiving workflows for orders and continuing resources.
• Distribute interlibrary loan packages and assist with acquisitions tasks.
• All positions require equal opportunity and compliance with security checks.

Skills

Adaptability

Flexibility

Problem solving

Decision making

Judgment

Cross-functional teamwork

Independent work

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Associate’s degree or certification/licensing

Tools

Ex Libris Alma

Job description

Department:University LibrariesSalary:$18.32-$20.60

Description

Coordinates the daily operations of a library function or program such as serial ordering, reference processing, special collections, electronic publications, information services, and so forth.

1. Performs reference work using subject expertise or general resource material.
2. Trains and coordinates the work activities of library specialists, library assistants, and/or student workers.
3. Interprets and teaches use of basic indexes, directories, guides, files and catalogs.
4. Receives and processes reserves and library loan requests.
5. Compiles book lists and bibliographies; reviews books and other material in areas of subject expertise.
6. Participates in the preparation, maintenance and updating of policies and procedures for functional area.
7. May teach electronic research classes to new and experienced library users.
8. Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

The Acquisitions Receiving Specialist performs a wide range of tasks related to the receipt of library materials in a variety of print and media formats. These routines and workflows require attention to quality and detailed record management within a variety of vendor and local systems.

Duties

• Manage receipt of print materials and other physical one-time and subscription resources in the library management system, Ex Libris Alma.
• Work closely with department team members to anticipate and quickly respond to a variety of receiving scenarios or special handling requirements.
• In coordination with supervisor and Collections Strategies and Discovery colleagues, develop and maintain documentation for receiving workflows for firm orders, standing orders, and continuing resources.
• Review bibliographic records associated with orders; submit work orders for cataloging or processing as needed.
• Coordinate with colleagues in the Resource Management and Metadata unit to process materials for binding or other special projects.
• Accurately and efficiently distribute other materials delivered to the department, such as interlibrary loan packages for Resource Sharing.
• Assist with other acquisitions-related duties as assigned and in collaboration with department team members, including some purchasing and subscription stewardship tasks.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience providing acquisitions-related library services
• Experience with receiving ordered inventory in a library or retail context
• Experience in using library systems, such as Ex Libris Alma

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Adaptability and flexibility in managing tasks to meet changes in procedures, processes, and technology
• Sound judgment and effective, independent problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Demonstrated ability to work well in cross-functional teams and with colleagues across departments
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight on a day-to-day basis

Directly relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education.

Applications must include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three (3) professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

MQ: Requires the ability and knowledge for analysis and interpretation of procedures, policies and practices attainable through specific education and/or training programs in a specialty or technical field. Advanced vocational or electronic skills or a basic knowledge of a professional field is required. An Associate's degree or certification/licensing in a technical specialty program of over 18 months and up to 3 years duration are characteristic of this field. Requires a minimum of one (1) year of directly job-related experience.

All positions at the University of Houston-System are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check.

The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.