Job Description
Description
Governors State University invites qualified candidates to apply for consideration to fill the position of the
Public Services Librarian (PSL) who will provide leadership and oversight in planning and managing all aspects of public services including reference desk team services in the
University Library . The PSL oversees the daily operations of circulation, course reserves, interlibrary loan, and building access services in the library. The PSL plays a key role in creating a welcoming user-centered environment that provides direct assistance to students, faculty, staff, and visitors while supervising a team of student employees and civil servants. The position collaborates closely with library colleagues, entities across the library and campus to ensure reliable, responsive, and innovative service delivery. The PSL is an enthusiastic and dedicated individual committed to the University mission, and with ability to implement library plans, goals, and objectives.
This position is classified as Temporary Resource Faculty member, on a twelve-month annual and renewable assignment, with rights and regulations affirmed in the GSU-UPI (Unit B) bargaining agreement. Essential Responsibilities
45% Staff Coordination and Training Recruit, onboard, mentor, direct, supervise, and evaluate civil service staff and student workers. Schedules shifts, coordinates and participates in on-call schedule and evening rotation and oversees completion of required trainings. Trains students on desk procedures, equipment use, and communication expectations. Provides ongoing supervision and cross-training to support service continuity. Plans and implements appropriate programming, workshops and instruction sessions for the library and university. Assists in Reference desk duties as part of Reference Team.
15% Systems, Equipment, Resource Access Support, and Building Maintains circulation components of integrated library management systems (ILMS), coordinates ILL workflows, distance learning services, and supports course reserves processing. Troubleshoots issues with library equipment and collaborates with technology staff to resolve escalated problems. Monitors and reports issues related to building access, security, and facility conditions. Maintains working knowledge of the website, collections, electronic resources, and general operations and facilities.
15% Data Management, Reporting and Content Creation Collects, tracks, and maintains circulation, ILL, and usage statistics. Proactively provides reports. Actively participates in library assessment and improvement of library services. Maintains and enhances LibAnswers knowledgebase, LibGuides content, and other online learning content. Generates content for new areas and offers suggestions to others as it relates to library services and resources.
10% Procedures, Policies, Protocols, and Collection Maintenance Creates, maintains, and improves policies, procedures, and best practices as it relates to public services. Enforces and supports implementation of circulation-related policies, procedures, and training manuals. Assists with collection maintenance projects, including shelving organization, shifting, and monitoring material condition. Collaborate with other departments for material relocation projects.
10% Internal and External Communication Work closely with the Dean to provide leadership and enhance communication and cooperation among library staff and within the university community. Leads marketing of library services including creating library displays, manages and coordinates campus events as they relate and intersect with the library. Attend and participate in meetings as required.
5% Other duties as assigned .
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities - Leadership, management, and conflict resolution skills.
- Thorough understanding of the operations of an academic library.
- Strong attention to detail; Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Effective time and project management skills with the ability to work independently and as a member of a collaborative team.
- Able to think critically and apply critical thinking skills to solve problems independently; make independent decisions that support the needs of the University, faculty and its students.
- Ability to quickly adjust when unplanned events occur that need immediate attention.
- Demonstrated ability to learn innovative technologies and adapt to change.
Required and Preferred Qualifications
Required Education and Experience - MLS degree or ALA-recognized equivalent.
- Proficiency with ILMS.
- Strong analytical, problem solving, and organizational skills, as well as attention to detail.
- Excellent written, interpersonal, and verbal communication skills.
- A record of providing strong customer service.
Desired Education and Experience - Management-level experience working with unionized faculty within collective bargaining environment.
- Experience with budgets.
- Supervisory experience in an academic library;
- Second master's degree in any discipline.
Supplemental Information
Please attach the following to your application:
- Resume or CV
- Transcripts
- Letter of Interest.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until this position is filled. For priority consideration, please submit a complete application with supporting documents by September 20, 2025. Governors State University
Job Tags
Temporary work, Immediate start, Relocation, Shift work, Afternoon shift,