Virtual Reference Library Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

About the Role:

Reporting to Manager, User Services & Engagement, the Library Assistant, Operations Support supports the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of departmental systems and resources, including student room booking systems, procedures manual updates, statistics collection, and other administrative tasks as required. The Library Assistant, Operations Support aids with many of the daily operations and logistics overseen by the Manager, User Services & Engagement. This includes, coordinating the weekly schedule in our online scheduling software, addressing coverage gaps by calling in additional staff as needed and approved by the Manager.

The Library Assistant, Operations Support provides circulation and basic copying/printing services and offers reference help at the Ask Us Desk. They also contribute to the library's Reference Assistants group, supporting student research and assisting with Alternative Format Requests.

The Library Assistant, Operations Support will:

• Utilize scheduling software to maintain and adjust the weekly schedule as needed to ensure adequate coverage for all frontline services (desk, chat, email, head counts, etc.), while supporting related operational needs, including Alternative Format Requests and locker administration;
• Utilize library systems to maintain an accurate and up-to-date listing of library hours;
• Utilizes statistics software for the regular collection of data and prepares reports as requested;
• Receive and resolve patron inquiries and/or complaints, escalating to the Manager or Department Head as required;
• Support recruitment processes, including searches, logistics, and onboarding;
• Use reserves management software and the ILS to submit, track, and process reserve materials; verify citations; resolve issues; and coordinate with faculty and Reserves staff to ensure accurate, timely, and copyrightcompliant course readings.
• Assist users in locating, using, and borrowing library material, including books, reserve readings, audio-visual items, and other equipment available at the desk;
• Provide support to users to operate equipment, such as computers, all-in-one printers/scanners/photocopiers, self-check machine; troubleshoot problems; refer to Library Systems and Technologies staff as necessary;
• Maintain and update patron system records accurately, including collecting payments (using a point-of-sale machine), creating temporary user accounts for visitors, and recording user interactions;
• Circulate through the building as scheduled to conduct headcounts, identify and report maintenance and security issues;
• Provide in-depth research assistance in person and remotely by staffing the Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL) virtual reference chat service and the library's primary email account as the first point of contact; delivers remote support to students, faculty, and staff across the university; and triages inquiries across the library in accordance with established procedures;
• Instruct library users in using library collections, online catalogue, databases, Internet resources, and how to formulate search terms;

Key Skills and Experience:

• Knowledge of a broad array of information resources and proficiency in searching the library catalogue, library website, and all the electronic databases to which the library subscribes, specifically their general content and use features;
• General working knowledge of the responsibilities of library departments and library staff, in addition to the services offered by Learning Commons' partners and other university units;
• Working knowledge of circulation software functionalities, as well as circulation policies and procedures;
• Ability to learn independently and keep pace with the changing information environment;
• Strong accuracy and attention to detail;
• Promotes and embodies inclusivity and respect within the workplace and the broader community;
• Maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive information, records, and communications, exercising sound judgment and discretion at all times.

Preferred or Asset Skills:

• Two-year Library Technician Diploma
• Familiarity of Library of Congress, Music, and Documents classification systems
• Familiarity with copyright legislation and related policies
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, Springshare Software

Salary and Total Rewards:

• Job Grade J, Salary Scale $57,267.00 - 91,627.00
• Target Hiring Range: $57,267.00 - 59,884.20
• This is a permanent position that includes:
• Health & Dental Benefits: Comprehensive extended health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Pension Plan: Enrollment eligibility in the Brock University Pension Plan.
• Vacation: Up to 3 weeks per year, in addition to university holidays.
• Professional Development: Eligibility for the Brock Tuition Waiver Program.

*The final salary is based on experience, internal equity, and budget considerations within the target hiring range.