Library Assistant II

Position Title:
Library Assistant II

Job Group:
Merit

Required Minimum Qualifications:
• Two years of library work experience, or A combination of related work experience, undergraduate education, and/or post-high school library training totaling three years.

Preferred Qualifications:
Research aptitude and/or experience in humanities-related research such as within genealogy, historical research using primary resources, or using library databases.
Search skills using databases and the web.
Interest in and ability to learn new technologies.
Computer acumen including experience with office software, especially spreadsheets.
Experience writing to a variety of audiences and/or purposes.
Knowledge of digital collections and/or digital collections platforms.
Demonstrated commitment to creating a welcoming environment and contributing to a collaborative working and learning environment.

Job Description:

The Iowa State University Library is seeking applications for an enthusiastic team member who will assist with a multi-partner grant-funded project, Amplifying Black Voices in Iowa. The purpose of the project is to digitize and provide access to archival materials related to Black communities throughout the state of Iowa. The Library Assistant will be essential to the success of this project by preparing and populating the digital collection with content and ensuring its quality, in addition to contributing to the creation and accuracy of additional content. They will also play a vital role in acquiring copyright permissions by performing research (primarily genealogical) to identify copyright holders. Finally, they will assist in the promotion and outreach of the digital collections and activities of the grant project.

This role will exercise independent judgment and decision-making while thoroughly documenting the reasoning behind those decisions and actions taken.  This position requires a high degree of organizational and time management skills, ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks, written and oral communication skills, as well as effective problem-solving abilities for complex issues and information. A successful candidate will have the ability to work both independently and within a team environment, to work under deadlines while maintaining accuracy, and an aptitude and desire for learning new skills.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship. 

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

• Performs public service and/or technical processing duties that require in-depth knowledge of unit and basic knowledge of library, university, consortium, and national policies, procedures, rules, standards and codes.
• Frequently uses one or two library automated system modules in such activities as inputting information or searching for moderately difficult records.
• Applies basic knowledge of other modules.
• Applies basic knowledge of software packages such as e-mail, print and electronic document processing, or specialized applications used by the unit.
• Assists library users providing service and information relative to the area of assignment and throughout the library.
• Communicates with other university offices and outside agencies such as libraries and vendors on matters of moderate complexity.
• Provides input in the development of unit policies and procedures.
• Provides partial training of student employees and/or merit staff and responds to their questions.
• Checks work of student employees and provides input on the evaluation of their performance.
• Works alone in and is fully responsible for a unit for limited periods.
• Performs duties with limited authority to make exceptions; higher-level staff is normally available onsite to whom problems may be referred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• In-depth knowledge of unit’s routines, functions, policies, procedures, and forms.

• Ability to communicate effectively with staff and library users, orally and in writing.

• Knowledge of library terminology and academic and bibliographic vocabulary.

• Basic skill in utilizing a computer, software, online systems, and conventional office equipment.

• Ability to respond to a variety of queries from library users and staff requiring judgment in the application of unit policies.

• Ability to accurately follow and interpret oral and written instruction and exercise judgment in its application.

• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks.

• Ability to exercise functional supervision over employees.

Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

February 25, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period

Time Type:
Full time

Pay Grade:
08

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State University is committed to fostering a workplace of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value. Our Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

Original Posting Date:
January 10, 2024

Posting Close Date:
January 23, 2024

Job Requisition Number:
R13767