Job Details
Position Description
Library Acquisitions
Search HOLLIS for bibliographic order records
Inspect newly-arrived books and journals
Prepare approval plan books for return to publisher
Library Technical services (i.e. processing and collection maintenance)
Receive new monographs and journals in Alma
Update ALMA item records, holdings records and bibliographic records for new monographs and journals
Label (and barcode when needed) new books and journals
Keep track of duplicates and coordinate donations as necessary
Prepare and receive bindery shipments
Prepare orders for custom archival enclosures
Perform basic book repairs
Assist with library physical inventory
Assist in submitting interlibrary loan requests
Receive and return interlibrary loan materials
Library Circulation
Check in and shelve circulated items
Search for missing books
Update library signage (e.g. call number range signs, journal list)
Space management: Contribute to ongoing physical space analysis
Space management: Assist with periodic shelf shifts
Assist users with checking out books
Renew checked-out books for long-term users
Fulfill scanning requests and search HOLLIS for online copies of requested scans
Set up library card accounts for new patrons w/o HarvardKeys; add identifiers to create library cards for fellows
Assist users with locating books
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Job Summary
The Library Assistant (50% FTE) supports fundamental library operations. Work areas include Acquisitions (resource ordering and receiving), Technical Services, (processing resources and collection maintenance), Resource Circulation and Access (user services). The position works closely with the Main Librarian and Cataloguer, and interfaces with library users.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.
Benefits
We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website ( to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
- Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
- Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
- Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
- Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
- Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
- Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
- Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
- Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
Work Format DetailsThis position is based primarily on the Hellenic Studies campus in Washington DC. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.