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The Reading Room Coordinator and Operations Assistant is the first point of contact for researchers and visitors to collections in the Kislak Center. This position provides crucial reference and guidance to researchers, as well as coordination of the retrieval and delivery of materials from UM Libraries’ stacks and from offsite storage. This position also ensures that all collection materials are used properly and safely. In addition to reading room responsibilities, this position helps to grow and publicize the collections by assisting in the acquisitions process, sharing materials through social media outlets, and assisting with Department events and exhibitions.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES & SPECIFIC DUTIES

Reading Room Coordinator duties
• Provides reference assistance to in-person and distance researchers and refers researchers to the appropriate Special Collections or University Archives staff and/or faculty for in-depth services.
• Informs patrons of registration and security procedures/policies and ensures all researchers follow materials handling and security policies for Special Collections materials.
• Assists researchers in using the Libraries’ online catalog as well as other research resources, such as finding aids, digital collections, and external resources.
• Monitors and maintains security of all collection materials.
• Handles item reproduction requests, delivery, and payment in coordination with allied departments, such Digital Initiatives and Access Services.
• Works closely with researchers to identify the collections most closely aligned with their research goals.
• Identifies materials for rehousing and/or preservation stabilization in coordination with relevant colleagues
Operational Services
• Liaison to the Community Relations and Events Department to assist in the planning of Kislak Center events, including Special Collections events, coordination of schedules for outside events, and event staffing.
• Coordinates retrieval of materials from stacks and/or offsite storage locations.
• Assists patrons, Special Collections, and other Libraries’ staff with filling out, tracking, and archiving all forms documenting gifts, loans, and other transactions common to the operations of the Department.
• Assists with the cataloging of books and journals in coordination with the Special Collections Librarian and the Unit Lead for Digital & Distinctive Collections Cataloging. Assists with the accessioning, arrangement, and description of archival collections.
• Gathers, interprets, and reports usage data on research services activities in Special Collections.
• Assists in editing and updating Special Collections’ webpages and other online digital projects.
• Maintains mailing lists in coordination with the Community Relations and Events Department.
• Monitors and resolves departmental supplies needs.
Kislak Center Duties
• Arranges tours in coordination with curators.
• Assists with the development and implementation of Kislak Center and Gallery and online exhibitions.
• Provides informational overviews of Kislak Center and Gallery exhibits to visitors.
• Assists with social media outreach.
Acquisitions
• Conducts bibliographic research to determine if potential acquisitions duplicate existing holdings.
• Processes invoices for purchased books, maps, and other items.
Communications, Relationships, and Service Applicable towards all duties
• Maintains helpful, courteous, and supportive patron service behavior with all Special Collections visitors and colleagues.
• Establishes effective interdepartmental relationships to increase unit effectiveness and disseminate information.
• Communicates frequently and effectively with Special Collections staff, other library colleagues, and/or Library Administration regarding procedures, policies, and other necessary information.
Performs other duties as assigned

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIPS
The Reading Room Coordinator and Operations Assistant reports to the Special Collections Librarian.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Education, Skills, Training, etc.)
• High School diploma required. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience. One year relevant work experience in a library, archives, or academic setting. Any relevant education, certifications and/or work experience may be considered. • Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, including Word, Excel, and Access.
• Working knowledge of web-editing software and/or HTML/XML preferred.
• Excellent organizational and customer service skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines.
• Ability to think analytically and critically.
• Aptitude for accuracy and detail.
• Aptitude for following standards and local documentation.
• Ability to work productively, cooperatively, and cheerfully with colleagues and patrons.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Ability to lift 30 pounds, push 40+ pounds, and reach while on a footstool.
• Ability to work with potentially dusty or dirty materials and materials that have been damaged by mold or mildew.

The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law. Click here for additional information.

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