Assistant Head of User Services

University of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago Library seeks three Assistant Heads of User Services to lead access and service operations across Regenstein, Crerar, Eckhart, and Social Work Libraries. Under the Head of User Services, you will plan and supervise user services, ensuring secure 24/7 access and a scholarly environment.

Each role holds primary responsibility for defined areas and direct reports, with cross‑training to cover needs.

Responsibilities

• Supervises union clerical staff, non‑union circulation

Job description

Department

Library C & A - Access Serv - Collection Mgmt & Circ Admin

About the Department

Widely known as guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff.

As part of the University of Chicago, we offer a wide variety of strong benefits and programs to academics and staff. From a choice of comprehensive health plan options and wellness programs, short and long-term disability insurance, continuing education opportunities including educational assistance plans, competitive retirement plans and paid time off (vacation, personal and university holidays), we’re committed to providing benefits and a work environment that matters!

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Head of User Services, the Assistant Heads of User Services (3) work in collaboration with each other across all three positions to perform their work. The Assistant Heads of User Services are responsible for planning and supervising user and access services for the Regenstein, Crerar, Eckhart, and Social Work Libraries. Each Assistant Head of User Services will have primary responsibility for defined functional areas and direct reports, while working collaboratively to ensure consistency across all User Services operations. All Assistant Heads are expected to maintain sufficient cross‑training to provide coverage and serve as backup for one another as operational needs require.

Responsible for ensuring building and library security and providing controlled 24‑hour/365-day-per-year access to spaces. Oversees Regenstein’s Entry Desk and entries to Regenstein, Crerar, Eckhart, and Social Work libraries and in collaboration with buildings managers at non‑Regenstein campus libraries. Responsible for interpreting and enforcing Library policies to maintain a scholarly environment throughout Regenstein, Crerar, Eckhart, and Social Work libraries. Provides and promotes excellent customer service to Library patrons across all areas of responsibility. Provides supervision and oversight across four service points, including Regenstein which has extensive operating hours and is the largest and most heavily used campus library, with more than 1.2 million annual users. Oversees lending of materials from circulating collections, course reserves, and interlibrary loan.

Responsibilities

Operations & Staff Leadership

• Supervises union clerical staff, non‑union circulation