Ensure proper and accurate shelving of materials. Assist library patrons with routine bibliographic searches (e.g. locate monographs, serials, periodicals, audio-visual tapes, microfiche and film ...
New
Ensure proper and accurate shelving of materials. Assist library patrons with routine bibliographic searches (e.g. locate monographs, serials, periodicals, audio-visual tapes, microfiche and film ...
New
Ensure proper and accurate shelving of materials. Assist library patrons with routine bibliographic searches (e.g. locate monographs, serials, periodicals, audio-visual tapes, microfiche and film ...
New
Detroit, MI · On-site
$33K/yr
Ensure proper and accurate shelving of materials. Assist library patrons with routine bibliographic searches (e.g. locate monographs, serials, periodicals, audio-visual tapes, microfiche and film ...
New
Detroit, MI · On-site
$33K/yr
Ensure proper and accurate shelving of materials. Assist library patrons with routine bibliographic searches (e.g. locate monographs, serials, periodicals, audio-visual tapes, microfiche and film ...
New
| Aspect | Serials Assistant | Library Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires a diploma or certificate in library science or related field | Often requires a high school diploma or equivalent, some roles prefer library or information science courses |
| Work Environment | Libraries, archives, or institutions managing serial publications | Public, school, or academic libraries |
| Job Responsibilities | Managing serials, subscriptions, cataloging serial publications, handling renewals | Assisting 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.

Other
Posted 3 days ago
New
7.6
Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
251st of 552 rated colleges and universities
Perform procedural library work involving moderately complex clerical support for a public or technical service unit in the University Library System. Work activities necessitate proficiency in library methods and procedures and the ability to utilize on-line computer systems and standard office equipment.
Essential Functions:
Perform moderately complex clerical support for circulation, reference and media desk services. Process requests for book charges, discharges and renewals; library card registration. Create and process records and holds via the computerized library system. Collect fines and fees; deposit and record on-line status. Ensure proper and accurate shelving of materials. Assist library patrons with routine bibliographic searches (e.g. locate monographs, serials, periodicals, audio-visual tapes, microfiche and film); provide general instruction in the operation of on-line computer system, e.g. Imagine, Horizon, microfiche/film readers and copiers.
Assist with bibliographic cataloging and acquisitions following established procedures. Operate computer terminal to access, enter and retrieve information involving multiple display formats and the coding and interpretation of data. Input, verify, interpret and edit on-line electronic records of journal subscriptions, bindery shipments, subject headings, authority records and other data pertaining to acquisitions, cataloging, bindery and circulation via OCLC system and bibliographic database.
Perform bindery and preservation functions for the library. Update and maintain on-line data pertaining to materials in the bindery process. Prepare and ship materials to bindery.
Review and verify computer generated reports to identify and correct routine errors of on-line data. Compile statistical data and prepare monthly and special reports regarding departmental operations. Maintain and update daily activity logs and work order requests. Process invoices to initiate vendor payment; deposit fines/fees into appropriate accounts; maintain billing status via computerized record.
Provide functional supervision to a large number (7-10) of student assistants and full and parttime support personnel. Assign and monitor work activities. Train in appropriate methods and procedures. Answer and resolve routine inquiries; refer complex problems to appropriate personnel.
Participate in general office functions as needed. Prepare and process appropriate University forms, paperwork and general correspondence. Operate standard and non-standard office equipment and machines, e.g. typewriter, photocopier, computer terminal, microfilm/fiche readers. Receive and answer telephone calls, take messages and direct inquiries and problems to appropriate personnel. Maintain department files; prepare materials for mail (i.e. interlibrary loan and DALNET information).
Open and close building facility and maintain secure area. May be required to work evening and weekend shifts. Monitor supply and equipment inventory; order materials and contact vendor representatives as necessary.
Perform related work as assigned.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
This senior classification level is designed to provide moderately complex clerical support for either a public or technical service unit in the Library System. Work activities necessitate require proficiency in various library procedures, e.g. circulation, loan, reference, media, cataloging, acquisitions, bindery, preservation and receiving services. The incumbent is expected to operate a computer terminal to access, retrieve and enter information via OCLC, Horizon and Imagine systems. The incumbent is expected to have the ability to communicate effectively when assisting patrons with library procedures, methods and operations. Functional supervision is exercised over a large number (7-10) of student and part-time temporary support personnel. The incumbent may be expected to work an evening or weekend shift. Work activities include thinking within somewhat diversified procedures. This classification is generally located in a public or technical service unit in the University Library System. This classification reports to and receives work direction from a professional/administrative, academic staff or management level position.
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Colleges, universities, and professional schools
5,001 - 10,000 Employees
Detroit, MI, US
1868