Graduate Reference Assistant

Dominican University; River Forest (IL); On-site; USD 17,331 - 24,684; Part time

Job summary

A leading university in River Forest, Illinois is seeking a Graduate Assistant for the library. This position provides essential support in reference services while offering hands-on experience for students in the Library and Information Science program. Responsibilities include staffing the reference desk, assisting circulation, and conducting research consultations. Ideal candidates should be enrolled in a graduate program, possess strong communication skills, and demonstrate self-motivation. The work hours are part-time, with an hourly rate of $15.25.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in the graduate program in Library & Information Science.
• Must be eligible for U.S. employment.
• Must be enrolled at least part-time as a degree-seeking student.

Responsibilities

• Staff the reference desk and provide reference services.
• Assist circulation desk with basic access services.
• Conduct research consultations as assigned.
• Work on independent projects as assigned.
• Participate in library-wide activities.

Skills

Interpersonal communication skills

Ability to work with diverse populations

Self-motivation

Comfort with technology

Education

Graduate program in Library & Information Science

Job description

DEPARTMENT: Library
REPORTS TO: Access & Reference Services Librarian
MAXIMUM HOURS PER WEEK: 20
ITEMS TO INCLUDE IN APPLICATION: Cover Letter, Resume, and Class Schedule

HOURLY RATE: $15.25

To support the University's mission of preparing students to pursue truth, to give compassionate service, and to participate in the creation of a more just and humane world.

JOB COMPONENTS / PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Graduate Assistants (GAs) in the Access & Reference Services Unit at Dominican University’s Rebecca Crown Library (RCL) are an integral part of the successful functioning of the library. GAs are often the first individuals that RCL patrons will interact with and can play a critical part in helping the Dominican community navigate library collections, services, and spaces. In addition to the value GAs bring to the library, working at RCL provides students currently enrolled in the graduate program in Library and Information Science with work experience in an academic library environment. Training provided helps connect you with best practices in reference work. You can build contacts with library professionals with a variety of specializations and experience levels. Also, independent projects can help you further hone your library skills and potentially work in a capacity that fits your future professional goals.

Primary duties include:

• Staffing the reference desk at RCL and providing reference services in person and through live chat, email, and over the telephone.
• Assisting student workers at the circulation desk with basic access services functions, such as circulating physical materials to patrons and handling student study room reservations.
• Conducting research consultations as assigned.
• Working on independent projects as assigned.
• Participating in library wide activities, such as assisting with collection maintenance and promotional work.

BASIC COMPETENCIES (Required knowledge, skills, abilities)

• Currently be enrolled in the graduate program in Library & Information Science in Dominican University’s School of Information Studies (SOIS).
• Ability to work on site.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work with diverse populations and be committed to contributing to an inclusive work environment.
• Dependability and punctuality.
• Self-motivation and ability to work independently.
• Comfort with technology and ability to learn new digital tools.
• Must be eligible for U.S. employment.
• Must be enrolled at least part-time as a degree seeking student in a Dominican University graduate program.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Completed LIS 702 Facilitating User Learning and Information Needs course.
• Previous experience working in a library.