About the Department:

The Learning, Research, and Engagement Division (LRE) of the University Libraries has primary responsibility for the spectrum of services and programs related to the outward-focused, direct engagement with undergraduate and graduate students and faculty pertaining to teaching, learning, and research, including the assessment of such services and programs. Through the Teaching and Learning Team and the three disciplinary teams of subject specialist librarians (Arts and Humanities, STEM, and Social Sciences), the LRE division works continuously with individual faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates on their individual learning and research needs by working closely with academic departments and colleges. Additionally, the LRE division advances the University Libraries’ goals and plans.

About the Position:

The Access & Outreach Specialist oversees Access Service operations of Mason Square Library (MSL) during evening and weekend hours, including administrative activities, and interpreting and enforcing university and Libraries’ policies and procedures. This position provides oversight of the Library’s circulating and non-circulating collections and is responsible for the overall maintenance and management of all MSL stacks areas to include serials maintenance, preservation inspections, collection shifts, and space planning. This position is also responsible for the outreach activities of MSL, including creating and updating marketing materials. Participates in committees, task forces, and/or workgroups as required to share knowledge, develop best practices, and implement and advance the work of the Libraries.

Responsibilities:

Access Services and Operations   

• Serves in a lead capacity for the operations and functions of the Mason Square Library circulation services during evenings and weekends;
• As appropriate, manages the work of student workers during the evening shifts and/or weekends;
• Interprets and enforces departmental and library policies and procedures;
• Efficiently oversees the closing of the Mason Square Library;
• Ensures consistent level of security in the library and performs all opening and closing procedures during scheduled hours;
• Collects and/or maintains records reflecting the operations of the department;
• Responsible for performing a wide range of complex duties at the library service desk, including assisting patrons with a variety of circulation transactions as well as assisting with document delivery, course reserves, print services, fine collection, and group study room access as well as basic reference support;
• Records statistics at the service desk on a daily basis; and
• Participates in Libraries’ and departmental-wide projects and tasks. 

Marketing & Outreach Support 

• In conjunction with the MSL staff and Libraries’ Marketing Team, designs and prepares signage and print materials explaining library services and events;
• Monitors and maintains handouts, guides, flyers, and library signage. Monitors current technologies, systems, and library applications to determine if marketing materials are needed;
• Manages and organizes MSL internal and external outreach activities;
• Assists in display creation;
• Develops themes for the Mason Square Library Bulletin Board and/or displays or exhibits; and
• Handles other marketing and outreach duties as assigned. 

Serials Management Processes 

• Manages the Library’s Serials/Periodicals collections to include:
  • Maintaining collections;
  • Coordinating bindery shipments; and
  • Weeding of newspapers and journals. 

Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent;
• Experience overseeing the work of others;
• Experience working in library public services, or in a customer-service environment;
• Demonstrated knowledge of graphic design software and marketing application;
• Service orientation and ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, production- and service-oriented environment;
• Demonstrates strong communication skills to convey complex ideas with clarity and impact to a variety of audiences;
• Able to skillfully navigate sensitive or challenging conversations with professionalism and diplomacy, ensuring alignment and mutual understanding;
• Cultivates an all-inclusive environment by valuing diverse perspectives and fostering a culture of respect and collaboration; and
• Able to balance competing priorities with agility, driving progress through proactive problem-solving.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in related field;
• Experience providing basic reference service in an academic library or other settings;
• Experience with marketing programs and services to multiple user groups;
• Experience considering the impacts of the work on multiple communities/populations/user groups;
• Highly proficient with Adobe Illustrator or InDesign;
• Knowledge using an integrated library system; and
• Knowledge working in an establishment with non-traditional business hours of operation.

Instructions to Applicants: 

For full consideration, applicants must apply for Access & Outreach Specialist at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent with Resume for review.

Posting Open Date: May 30, 2025

Posting Close Date: June 13, 2025

Open Until Filled:  No