Hourly Library Specialist

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid leave

Tuition benefits

Job summary

VCU Libraries is seeking a part-time Hourly Library Specialist to support the Information Desk at the Health Sciences Library on the MCV campus and assist with circulation, systems tasks, and building operations. The role emphasizes customer service, reliability, and collaboration with staff to ensure a welcoming learning environment.

Responsibilities include answering questions, assisting with printing and budget code payments, managing patron records, and helping maintain a safe, accessible

Qualifications

• Proficiency with Windows and macOS operating systems.
• Proficiency with email and web browsers.
• Library work experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide frontline customer service at the Information Desk, assisting patrons in person and by phone.
• Circulate materials and manage library technology equipment in Alma.
• Perform opening/closing procedures and coordinate with security for a safe environment.
• Maintain timely shift attendance and communicate scheduling updates to the Library Service Manager.

Skills

Customer service

Computing proficiency

Communication skills

Job description

Advertising Summary:

VCU Libraries supports learning, research, and creativity across Virginia Commonwealth University. With locations at James Branch Cabell Library on the Monroe Park Campus and the Health Sciences Library on the MCV Campus, we help students, faculty, and staff access the information, spaces, and services they need to succeed. Our team values collaboration, innovation, and service, creating an environment where ideas thrive and learning flourishes.

Unit:

VCU Libraries MBU

Department:

Cabell Library

Department Summary:

The Library Engagement and User Experience (LEUX) Department at VCU’s Health Sciences Library drives community outreach, user-centered programming, and frontline access across VCU’s health sciences campus and health system. Serving students, researchers, clinicians, and the Richmond community, LEUX delivers tailored instruction, optimizes physical and digital library spaces, manages technology loans, and promotes health literacy. Joining LEUX means collaborating at the intersection of health sciences education, public engagement, and continuous service enhancement to ensure an accessible, welcoming, and high-impact library experience.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Hourly Library Specialists are an integral part of the Library Engagement and User Experience Department (LEUX) at the VCU Health Sciences Library. Working at the Information Desk on VCU’s MCV campus, this position delivers exceptional support to VCU students, faculty, healthcare professionals, hospital staff, and the public, striving to maintain an accessible, friendly, and welcoming atmosphere for study and learning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Customer & User Support: Provide frontline customer service at the Information Desk, answering questions about library resources, policies, and general info in person and over the phone. Assist patrons with basic printing, computing, and online/budget code payment transactions.

• Circulation & Systems Operations: Circulate library materials and technology equipment using Alma (VCU Libraries’ Integrated Library Software). Maintain accurate patron records and perform data entry or clerical tasks supporting library collection assessments.

• Building Operations & Safety: Execute routine opening and closing procedures to secure the building, monitor facilities, report maintenance needs, and collaborate with security personnel to ensure a safe environment.

• Communication & Reliability: Maintain prompt shift attendance, communicate regular updates, and report necessary scheduling changes to the LEUX Library Service Manager.

Schedule & Expectations:

• Hours: Part-time, fixed schedule of 9 to 15 hours per week during the academic semester.

• Availability: Requires coverage for at least one weeknight and one weekend shift per week.

• Core Qualities: High level of commitment, independence, dependability, and excellent communication skills.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Customer Service Experience

Proficiency with computer operating systems (Windows, macOS), email, and web browsers

Preferred Qualifications

Library work experience

Experience in an academic environment or with health professionals

Salary Range:

15.00

Benefits

All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

FLSA Exemption Status:

Non-Exempt

Hours per Week:

9-15 hours

Restricted Position:

No

Flexible Work Arrangement:

Fully Onsite