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Serials Assistant Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Serials Assistant information

What is a serials assistant?

Serials Assistants are library professionals who handle the organization, processing, and management of serial publications such as journals, magazines, and newspapers. Their responsibilities include checking in new issues, maintaining accurate records, assisting with subscription renewals, and resolving problems related to serials. They work closely with librarians and vendors to ensure patrons have timely access to periodicals, both in print and digital formats. This role is essential in academic, public, and special libraries to support research and information needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a serials assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Serials Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of library science principles, typically supported by a high school diploma or relevant library experience. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), serials management software, and bibliographic databases is often required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure accurate tracking, cataloging, and access to serial publications, supporting efficient library operations and patron satisfaction.

How does a serials assistant typically collaborate with librarians and academic staff?

As a Serials Assistant, you’ll regularly work alongside librarians and academic staff to ensure timely access to journals, periodicals, and other serial publications. This involves communicating about subscription updates, resolving access issues, and assisting with the evaluation of new resources. You may also help prepare usage reports or support training sessions on serials management systems, making collaboration and clear communication important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Serials Assistant vs Library Assistant?

AspectSerials AssistantLibrary Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or certificate in library science or related fieldOften requires a high school diploma or equivalent, some roles prefer library or information science courses
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, or institutions managing serial publicationsPublic, school, or academic libraries
Job ResponsibilitiesManaging serials, subscriptions, cataloging serial publications, handling renewalsAssisting patrons, shelving, cataloging, and general library support

While both roles work within library settings, Serials Assistants focus on managing serial publications and subscriptions, requiring specific knowledge of serials management. Library Assistants have broader responsibilities supporting overall library operations. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Serials Assistant jobs in Alabama?

For Serials Assistant jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Serials Assistant jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Serials Assistant jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Serials Assistant jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Serials Assistant job openings:

Acquisitions Assistant, University Library

Samford University

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Location : Main Campus - Homewood, AL
Job Type: Staff Full Time
Job Number: FY2700688
Division: Academic Affairs for Staff
Department: STA-University Library
Opening Date: 08/31/2026
FLSA: Non-Exempt
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Description
The Acquisitions Assistant works closely with the department chair, interlibrary loan coordinator, and student assistants to support the department's operations. The ideal candidate for this position enjoys detail-oriented work, problem-solving, and effectively managing their time and priorities. The role requires someone who is self-motivated, team-oriented, flexible, helpful, ethical, and trustworthy with strong interpersonal skills. The ability to engage in cordial, professional relationships with internal and external colleagues and stakeholders is essential. Work is often performed independently, with occasional interaction with colleagues, making this role ideal for individuals who thrive in a quiet environment but also appreciate supportive teamwork.
Job Duties
  • Purchases, receives, and resolves lapses and issues for, selected subscriptions, serials, monographic and media materials, and selected supplies and services in coordination with the department chair and the library dean.
  • Maintains purchasing information; fund allocations; and expenditures in the library's integrated library system and in spreadsheet software and reports such information as requested but no less than monthly..
  • Processes gift and exchange materials, including recording of information, letter recognition of gifts, and maintenance and reporting of gift and donation files.
  • Receives, documents, and deposits monies collected by the library for various purposes.
  • Solicits product quotes for comparison and selection in coordination with the library dean and department chair.
  • Maintains relationships and accounts with various vendors; and with university accounting and purchasing offices to facilitate ordering and receipt of materials as well as payment.
  • Manages book sale shelves organization and maintenance and deposits of book sale funds.
  • Supervises student workers.
  • Performs additional duties, including interlibrary loan borrowing and lending, as requested.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Data entry skills, spreadsheet familiarity, and basic accounting knowledge .
  • Physical requirements of the job:
    • Ability to move/push a book cart weighing up to 40 lbs.
    • Ability to make deliveries and/or visit campus offices up to .33 miles.
    • Ability to shelve and retrieve books from library stacks of varying heights.
  • Possess a current, valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office and Innovative Interfaces' Sierra ILS (Integrated Library System).
  • Experience with Banner Finance.
  • Additional attributes that will be used in screening applicants:
    • Knowledge of the culture and organization of an academic institution.
    • Experience with detailed work.
    • Conscientious time management.
    • Strong interpersonal skills, cordiality, and professionalism.
    • Team-oriented outlook.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our
01
Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Are you able to move/push a book cart weighing up to 40 pounds?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Are you able to make deliveries and/or visit campus offices up to .33 miles distant?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have current, valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question