About this Part-Time Library Support Staff role at Penn State University
Penn State University · Onsite · Penn State Brandywine
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.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Penn State Brandywine Campus Library is seeking applicants for Part-Time Library Support Staff to support daily library operations, student services, and programming. This role combines front-line customer service, collection maintenance, event support, and creative project work. Ideal candidates are organized, customer-focused team-players who are comfortable balancing routine tasks with event-based projects. Excellent opportunity for those seeking part-time employment in a collaborative, supportive, and low-stress campus environment.
Job duties to include:
Public Services
• Provide customer service at the service desk, including circulation of materials, equipment, and study rooms
• Respond to patron inquiries and provide directional and basic research assistance
• Assist with patron account transactions, including account verification and service explanation (e.g., holds, resource sharing)
• Perform opening and closing procedures and ensure service point readiness
• Monitor public spaces through regular walkthroughs
Circulation & Collections Support
• Shelve, organize, and maintain library collections in accordance with established procedures
• Process incoming/outgoing materials (including resource sharing systems / interlibrary loans)
• Process and monitor patron holds
• Update item records and assist with routine catalog and inventory maintenance
• Scan and digitize materials as assigned
• Support collection and asset inventory projects
Programming & Outreach Support
• Assist in the planning, coordination, and implementation of library programs and outreach events
• Prepare, set up, facilitate, and restock activity stations, displays, and program materials
• Track attendance, compile participation data, and maintain program documentation
• Provide direct support to library engagement initiatives and pop-up library events
• Prepare materials and assemble program kits and craft supplies, operating Cricut equipment when appropriate
• Maintain organization and inventory of activity supplies and work areas
Communications & Creative Support
• Develop and update physical and digital signage for services, programs, and displays
• Create promotional materials using Office 365 applications and design tools (e.g., Canva)
• Assist with social media content creation, including graphics, captions and accessibility compliance
• Design and install tabletop displays, small-scale book spotlights, and interactive elements
• Contribute to user engagement activities such as contests and feedback initiatives
Administrative & Operational Support
• Monitor and respond to departmental email communications
• Process incoming/outgoing mail and deliveries
• Collaborate with library staff and provide guidance to student employees as assigned
• Maintain tracking documents, spreadsheets, and program data
• Monitor supply levels and submit supply requests
Facilities & General Maintenance
• Maintain tidiness and organization of public and staff spaces
• Assist with setup, removal, and maintenance of displays and signage
• Ensure library spaces are orderly, functional, and compliant with safety standards
Requirements, qualifications, and/or competencies:
Minimum Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent
• One (1) year of customer service or related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• High degree of reliability and accountability
• Excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team and effectively and efficiently share knowledge with others
• Outstanding attention to detail, accuracy and thoroughness
• Confidence working with standard office technologies (e.g., Microsoft 365, spreadsheets, email systems)
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt to changing priorities
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience in a library or academic, or service-oriented environment
• Familiarity with desktop design tools (e.g., MS Powerpoint, Canva) and social media platforms
Schedule
• The selected candidate will work 15-20 total hours per week; must be available to regularly open the library four to five days a week (9:00 AM during summer; 8:30AM during school year), and occasionally cover evening and weekend special events (based on operational needs).
• This is a fully on-site position at the Penn State Brandywine Campus Library.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
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.
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