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Penn Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Serve as library liaison to various law school clinics and programs. * Develop and implement ... Penn State's Values can be found here. This position is based in University Park, PA. The ...

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to ... They will assist users with Library databases and electronic services; advise and consult on ...

$64.50K - $68K/yr

Ensure events align with Penn Libraries' mission and donor engagement strategies. Manage Development-Adjacent Initiatives * Support programs aligned with development goals but outside standard ...

$38.30K - $61K/yr

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to ... POSITION SPECIFICS Join thePennsylvania State University Libraries as a LibraryServicesSpecialist ...

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How much do penn library jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for penn library in the United States is $72,983.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $85,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Penn Library staff member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Penn Library staff member, you generally need a background in library science or a related field, strong research abilities, and excellent organizational skills. Familiarity with library management systems, digital archives, and cataloging tools like Alma or WorldCat is typically required. Outstanding customer service, attention to detail, and effective communication help staff support patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These skills ensure efficient library operations, accurate resource management, and a positive user experience for students and faculty.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working at the Penn Library, and how can they be addressed?

Staff at the Penn Library often navigate challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving digital resources, balancing multiple user needs, and managing large-scale research inquiries. To address these, team members are encouraged to participate in ongoing professional development, collaborate closely with colleagues across departments, and utilize robust internal support systems. Embracing new technologies and maintaining open communication with patrons and fellow staff help create a responsive and supportive work environment.

What are Penn Library jobs?

Penn Library jobs refer to a variety of employment opportunities available within the University of Pennsylvania's library system. These positions can include roles such as librarians, library assistants, archivists, IT specialists, and student workers. Employees help support library operations, assist patrons, manage collections, and contribute to academic research and learning. Working at Penn Libraries offers a chance to be part of a diverse, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating environment.

What is the difference between Penn Library vs Penn Librarian?

AspectPenn LibraryPenn Librarian
RoleInstitutional library facility providing access to resources and servicesProfessional responsible for managing library collections, assisting patrons, and organizing information
Required CredentialsTypically a master's degree in library science (MLS or MLIS)Master's degree in library science or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic or academic library settingLibrary, educational, or research institution
Employer & IndustryUniversities, public libraries, research institutionsLibraries, educational institutions, archives

In summary, Penn Library refers to the physical or organizational library facility, while a Penn Librarian is a professional who manages and provides services within that library. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in related environments, but their functions differ: one is the institution, the other is the professional staff.

More about Penn Library jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Penn Library jobs? The most popular types of Penn Library jobs are:
What states have the most Penn Library jobs? States with the most job openings for Penn Library jobs include:
Infographic showing various Penn Library job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,983 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Library Operations Supervisor, Penn State Abington

Penn State University

Abington, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 hours ago


Penn State University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 98 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

146th of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State Abington, located about five miles north of Philadelphia, is seeking a Library Operations Supervisor to lead the daily operations of its library with an emphasis on circulation, collection maintenance, and customer service.
This position offers an excellent opportunity to provide front-facing customer service within a prestigious library system, while overseeing and supporting library staff and student assistants.
You will get to partner with many others at Penn State Abington and across the Pennsylvania State University Libraries as you support our students, faculty, and campus - giving you the opportunity to learn from and/or offer guidance to fellow employees.
Responsibilities
Joining a supportive team, the Library Operations Supervisor will work independently and collaboratively to complete this position's responsibilities, which include but are not limited to:
  • Facilitate and lead the daily operations of the library including coordination of circulation, reserves, interlibrary loan, acquisitions, catalog maintenance, collection maintenance, facilities, and user experience
  • Develop and implement operational procedures and oversee user experience assessment
  • Supervise library staff (full-time, part-time, and student) team members: hire, schedule, train, and conduct performance management
  • Collaborate with the Head Librarian on planning, implementing, and evaluating unit priorities including analysis and improvement of library services
  • Maintain and manage the library operations budget, contribute to budget planning and forecasting, allocate resources, make purchasing recommendations, and approve expenditures
  • Oversee circulation of library items both on-site and for interlibrary loan (ILL)
  • Provide outstanding customer service to students, faculty, and community users (e.g., answering questions, resolving concerns, and instructing patrons in technology, systems, and equipment)
  • Represent the library and the campus through regular communication with other Penn State units and through service on committees

Depending on the skills and interests of the successful candidate and needs of the department, the Library Operations Supervisor may also engage in the oversight of outreach activities, development of library guides, and/or the Ogontz Archive.
As part of a small yet impactful team, library staff are cross trained to complete duties in multiple areas as needed.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Experience providing leadership or guidance to others, demonstrated through formal supervisory responsibilities or by serving as an informal team lead or go-to resource for questions and problem-solving
  • Committed to providing excellent customer service: demonstrated ability to be adaptable, flexible, and patient with customers and staff
  • Effective verbal and written communication
  • Excellent interpersonal skills; inclusive and respectful when working with others
  • Ability to stay organized with a high attention to detail and accuracy while multi-tasking
  • Demonstrated knowledge of library technical services, including acquisitions, cataloging, and collection maintenance
  • Ability and willingness to learn job-related software
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools or comparable software used for communication, documentation, and spreadsheet management.

Preferred Qualifications (one or more):
  • Experience with overseeing or developing a peer-to-peer library research program
  • Experience working with circulating technologies
  • Experience managing departmental budgets

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Library Operations Supervisor - Supervisor, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Library Operations Supervisor - Senior Supervisor, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
Important Application Instructions: Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter.
Additional Information:
This position will report to the Head Librarian of the Penn State Abington Library.
The Penn State Abington Library's current hours of operation are from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern, from Monday to Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern on Friday.
The Library Operations Supervisor's weekly schedule will be coordinated in consultation with the Head Librarian and library staff and may include opening and/or closing shifts. Working an infrequent weekend for event support is expected.
Important Note: This position requires regular on-site work.
The Pennsylvania State University Libraries is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
The Penn State Abington Library provides the Penn State Abington campus community with access to all resources and services offered by the Penn State University Libraries - one of the Top 10 research libraries in North America.
Penn State Abington is located in Abington, Pennsylvania, which is about five miles north of Philadelphia.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $42,100.00 - $67,300.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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