Chicago, IL, USA
4 days ago
Collections Care Assistant

Department

Library C & A - Preservation - Binding and Shelf Prep


About the Department

Widely known as guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff.


Job Information

Job Summary:

As a member of the Preservation Department, the Collections Care Assistant assists in maintaining the circulating collections.  Under the supervision of the Head of Collections Care, the Collections Care Assistant reviews and processes binding shipments to and from the commercial bindery for users, prepares physical collections for the shelf, performs quality control and resolves problems for ongoing operations and workflows, and contributes to the training and supervision of student staff.  Uses specialized software and FOLIO for unit operations.  Performs work in accordance with established standards and procedures.

Responsibilities:

Reviews and prepares outgoing monthly shipments for library binding and housing for both new and older materials.  Creates shipment documentation for outgoing and incoming the shipment.  Uses ABLE, the binder’s proprietary software, labeling software, and FOLIO.  

Troubleshoots and performs quality control to identify errors and problems identified in workflows, resolves or forwards problems identified through quality control procedures for resolution. Maintains equipment, and monitors for supplies. Collects statistics for production operations and workflows. Assists with documenting procedures and recommends changes in processing and procedures to improve efficiency.

Assists the Head of Collections Care in supervising student staff and their work assignments: introduces new employees to Library practices, procedures, and equipment.  Directs and trains student employees in a range of library tasks including marking and labeling incoming books and media, making label corrections, processing patron holds, and assisting with the monthly binding shipments. Participates in assigning and monitoring daily student tasks.

Organizes daily incoming workflows from various library units. Sorts completed items for shelving in JRL, Mansueto ASRS, and for off-site storage.  Tracks backlogs of unprocessed workflows and prioritizes work for daily and student assignments. Responds to internal queries about the unit’s work.

Processes and performs quality control for incoming bindery shipments to assure quality and accuracy, makes corrections or refers problems to the bindery or staff for resolution. 

Performs labeling and shelf marking of newly acquired materials as coverage when student schedules are insufficient to maintain consistent workflows.

Works with the Collections Care Supervisor and Head of Conservation on new workflows, recommending workflow improvements, with difficult and complex items needing treatment, and on collections projects. Coordinates with Acquisitions and Collection Management Supervisors on workflows for shelving in stacks, Mansueto ASRS and off-site storage.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities

Education, Experience, or Certifications:

Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Bachelor’s Degree preferred.

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

Demonstrated ability to use Microsoft Office packages including Excel and learn a range of position-related computer applications and software packages.

Familiarity with computer systems.

Ability to be flexible and adapt to changes in technology and workflow.

Some knowledge of library procedures is preferred.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

Sitting, standing, and working on a computer for long periods of time.

Handle and grasp volumes including large and oversized volumes; perform repetitive wrist and hand movements.

Push/pull full book trucks for short distances within the building.

Perform duties that require consistent physical activity and mobility.

Lift cartons of books that may weigh up to thirty pounds.

Pay Range:

$18.93 – $22.10 per hour

Required Documents:

Resume

Professional References (3)


When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.


Benefit Eligibility​

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.


Pay Rate Type

Hourly


Pay Range

$18.93 - $22.10

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.


Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5


Union

024- Local 743, I.B.T. Clerical


Job is Exempt

No


Drug Test Required

No


Health Screen Required

No


Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No


Posting Date

2025-04-22


Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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