USF Hilltop Campustime

Job Title: Library Assistant V – Cataloging

Job Summary: Under the direction of the Head of Metadata & Collection Management, the Catalog Assistant coordinates, plans, and organizes functional operations of the cataloging unit and highly complex projects that require an understanding of the library, its collection, classification scheme, catalog, and computer systems. The position also supervises 2-3 student assistants.

Full Job Description:

Duties and responsibilities:

  • Performs complex copy cataloging of books using Resource Description & Access (RDA) guidelines.  Verifies and assigns subject headings, genre terms, and call numbers in accordance with the Library of Congress Subject Headings, Library of Congress Classification Schedules, and other authorized vocabularies.
  • Performs bibliographic searching in the library’s online catalog, OCLC, or other vendor databases and exports records into our local integrated library system (Sierra). In this process, independently and in collaboration with colleagues and the department head, evaluates, selects, enhances, verifies access points, and adds local data to bibliographic records.
  • Creates and maintains spine label print templates and troubleshoots spine label printing. Maintains Catalog Department equipment (i.e. computer hardware, printers, etc.)
  • Takes initiative and exercises judgment when handling problems with spine labels, barcodes, or other item level metadata. Identifies and independently resolves issues regarding bibliographic and item record discrepancies and errors.
  • Recruits, hires, trains and supervises student assistants.  Oversees, coordinates, and evaluates the work of student assistants engaged in copy cataloging and book processing.
  • Coordinates departmental student payroll. Tracks student assistant schedules and other student assistant related duties.
  • Orders departmental supplies and tracks the departmental supply budget.
  • Assists Department Head in collecting statistics, generating annual reports, and other projects and reports, as requested.
  • Creates and maintains departmental documentation of workflows, procedures and policies.
  • Communicates with library staff regarding cataloging policy and procedures. Communicates with OCLC, Innovative Interfaces, or other cataloging vendors, as needed.
  • Assists with catalog enrichment, data clean-up, and metadata creation projects, as needed.
  • Participates in cross training to ensure all departmental responsibilities are performed in case of temporary absence of personnel.
  • Participates in staff development activities and stays current with changes in cataloging guidelines, functionality within OCLC & Sierra software, and other developments in the field.
  • Special projects and other duties, as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

Equivalent of 5 years performing work relevant to the position, including experience with creating and editing records in an automated ILS environment such as Innovative Interfaces Sierra. Four years of higher education (120) units or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Excellent computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Word/Excel and Google Workspace. Ability to maintain records with great attention to detail. Demonstrated experience or interest in working with diverse groups, cultural humility and ability to support the advancement of DEI initiatives.

Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Preferred qualifications:

Knowledge of basic cataloging / technical services routines in an automated ILS environment. Experience using the guidelines and tools for library cataloging, such as Resource Description & Access (RDA), Library of Congress Subject Headings, Library of Congress Classification Schedules, OCLC Connexion. Demonstrated troubleshooting and problem solving skills. Self-motivated with initiative and flexibility in order to respond to changing needs and priorities. Capable of working with a minimum of supervision; able to make decisions independently, within the framework of departmental and library policies and goals.

Full-Time/Part-Time:Full time

Pay Rate:Hourly