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Library Acquisitions Assistant Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

$17.58/hr

... etc. Assist users with MS Office Software, Email, Password Station, Canvas, MyWay, Papercut and ... Assists the Library Supervisor in daily operation of the library, including acquisition ...

Library Acquisitions Assistant information

What are Library Acquisitions Assistants?

Library Acquisitions Assistants are support professionals who help manage the process of obtaining books, periodicals, digital resources, and other materials for a library. They work closely with librarians and vendors to identify needed resources, place orders, track shipments, and process invoices. Their responsibilities may also include maintaining acquisition records, assisting with budget management, and ensuring new materials are properly cataloged and made available to patrons. This role is essential for keeping library collections up-to-date and ensuring that users have access to requested and relevant materials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Acquisitions Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Acquisitions Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with bibliographic and cataloging standards, typically supported by a degree or coursework in library science or a related field. Proficiency with integrated library systems (ILS), acquisitions software, and online databases is essential. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are valuable soft skills for collaborating with vendors and library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate, efficient acquisition and processing of library materials, which directly impacts the library's ability to serve its patrons.

What are some common challenges faced by a Library Acquisitions Assistant, and how can they be managed?

Library Acquisitions Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple purchase requests, tracking orders from various vendors, and ensuring timely receipt of materials. Balancing priorities and maintaining accurate records can be demanding, especially during peak acquisition periods or budget cycles. Effective communication with librarians, vendors, and finance departments helps alleviate these challenges, as does familiarity with library management systems and organizational procedures. Staying organized and proactive in problem-solving are key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Library Acquisitions Assistant vs Library Cataloging Assistant?

AspectLibrary Acquisitions AssistantLibrary Cataloging Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer library science courseworkHigh school diploma; coursework in library science or related field beneficial
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, or media centers involved in procurement and collection developmentLibraries or archives focusing on organizing and cataloging collections
Employer & Industry UsagePublic, academic, or special libraries involved in acquiring materialsLibraries and archives managing cataloging and classification tasks
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in library support staff focusing on acquisitionsCompared for roles in cataloging and metadata management

The Library Acquisitions Assistant primarily handles procurement and collection development, while the Library Cataloging Assistant focuses on organizing and cataloging library materials. Both roles support library operations but differ in their core responsibilities and skill sets.

What are popular job titles related to Library Acquisitions Assistant jobs in Nebraska? For Library Acquisitions Assistant jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Acquisitions Assistant jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Library Acquisitions Assistant jobs in Nebraska are:
Infographic showing various Library Acquisitions Assistant job openings in Nebraska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

$17.58/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Classification

Temporary

Minimum Pay

$17.58

Compensation will be commensurate with the level of the position, education, and experience.

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

This position assists students, faculty, staff and community members in using College library research resources to locate appropriate information and materials. Teaches patrons how to use various print and electronic research tools such as digital magazines/journals/newspapers, eBooks, steaming videos, etc. Assist users with MS Office Software, Email, Password Station, Canvas, MyWay, Papercut and MyHub. Assists the Library Supervisor in daily operation of the library, including acquisition, preparation and organization of library materials.

ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS:

  • Instructs patrons in using online library catalogs and databases to locate desired information.
  • Answers reference questions and provides other assistance to patrons.
  • Checks material in and out, explains circulation policies to customers.
  • Registers customers for new library cards; renews cards.
  • Accepts money for fines and fees, makes change, balances cash drawer, prepares deposit.
  • Handles intra-campus, interlibrary loan and reserve requests.
  • Assists in maintaining catalog and serials holdings list. Assists with copy cataloging and bibliographic verification.
  • Assists with processing of materials for campus libraries
  • Prepares purchase requests for books, audio visual materials and supplies.
  • Organizes and maintains periodical collection; claims missing issues.
  • Operates and performs basic cleaning and maintenance of audiovisual equipment.
  • Maintains various library records and statistics.
  • Responsible for library operations in absence of Supervisor.
  • Intermittent guidance of work-study students.
  • Assists in maintaining the environment of the library.
  • Assists with preparing and updating procedures manual.
  • Promotes library service to faculty, staff and students by assisting with special events and membership on College committees, task forces and councils including giving brief presentations.
  • Stays current with developments in library and information fields.
  • Consistently and dependably attends work, activities, and functions as scheduled or assigned.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Evenings and Weekends (Mon- Thursday) until 8pm and Saturdays 8:30-5pm.

This is an on-premise position located at South Omaha Campus.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge of library practices.
  • Knowledge of audiovisual equipment.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office and Windows software and skill in operating a personal computer.
  • Skill in interpersonal communications. Skill in the use of English spelling and grammar. Knowledge of test administration.
  • Skill in organization, time management and prioritization.
  • Ability to use active listening skills to answer questions and problem solve, and converse on the telephone and in person with employees, vendors and students.
  • Ability to work with a diverse population of clients.
  • Ability to write and maintain accurate records.
  • Ability to pay close attention to detail.
  • Ability to work well with minimal supervision in a team-oriented environment.
  • Ability to maintain professionalism, patience and understanding in stressful situations.
  • Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks.
  • Ability to communicate with members of a diverse culture in a courteous, professional manner.
  • Ability to express oneself clearly in written and oral communications.
  • Ability to move up to 20 lbs occasionally, and/or up to 10 lbs frequently.
  • Ability to effectively work and interact with various cultures & ethnicities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:

  • Associate's Degree
  • One (1) year of work-related experience.
  • Equivalent combination of education and/or work experience considered.
  • Bi-lingual in English and Spanish preferred.
  • Must pass background check.

The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria considered necessary to perform the job successfully. Metropolitan Community College recognizes that an individual with a disability may require an accommodation to enable the candidate to successfully perform a job function. Consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations.