Shannon Library Graduate Reference Student Job at University of Virginia in Char

Shannon Library’s Reference Desk is seeking Graduate Student workers. Preference is given to individuals available to work both weeknights and weekends.

In person and online, the Reference Desk and its staff set the tone for many library patrons’ experiences with UVA Library. The primary duty of this position is providing Reference service during evenings and weekends at the Shannon Library’s primary Service and Information Desk, online via our Ask-a-Librarian service, and over the phone. Reference Student Assistants help our patrons find the information they need to pursue their research, enjoy a visit to UVA, or connect with a specialist. A welcoming and solutions-oriented attitude is crucial. The ideal candidate will have customer service experience and a familiarity with or willingness to learn about a wide variety of library resources. We will provide additional training for databases, the library catalog (Virgo), research guides, and other reference skills. Reference Student Assistants must be able to make decisions autonomously and with confidence, but will also know when to refer patrons to staff or recommend a consultation with a librarian. Reference Student Assistants may open or close Reference areas and assist with building security and safety of patrons. Reference Student Assistants also provide basic Circulation services like checking out, discharging, and renewing library materials. Job duties also include working on Reference Team projects such as editing or updating the reference manual, entering metadata for our clippings indexing project, and other projects. Weekday daytime shifts are occasionally offered, and other duties may be assigned.

Attention to detail, dependability, an amicable attitude, and the ability to meet the tone of the patron are essential qualities for someone in this position. Applicants must be full-time registered graduate students (in SIS).

FWSA (i.e., Work-Study) eligibility preferred but not required. Work-Study employment is effective from 08/26/25-5/8/26. The pay rate for this position is $16.71/hour. This is a wage position for 20 hours per week or less.

To apply, please include a resume and cover letter highlighting customer service experience.

Desired Skills

• A good public service attitude; enjoy working with people.

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.

• Experience using library catalogs and databases for post-graduate level research and citations.

• Willingness and ability to work an established schedule.

• Be on time for each assigned shift.

• Dependability and accuracy.

• Attention to detail.

• Ability to use computers, to learn integrated library systems, and other library technology.

• Be able to communicate verbally in a clear manner.

• Be able to type at a reasonable pace using good grammar and spelling for our chat service.

• Be able to provide welcoming service to all library patrons (in person, on the telephone, and via chat) in a courteous, efficient manner.

• Be able to read printed labels.

• Be able to push a full book cart and lift 15 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Help create a welcoming, informative environment for library patrons by assisting patrons in person, on the phone, and via online chat with Reference questions at the main Shannon desk.

• Make effective use of the library’s information resources, including Virgo, the library catalog, databases, research guides, and advanced internet searches to assist patrons in answering reference questions. Refer patrons to specialist Librarians when appropriate.

• Assist patrons in successfully navigating the Library's physical spaces as well as its services and use guidelines.

• Assist with charging, discharging, and renewing library materials for patrons.

• Answer basic inquiries about directions, circulation, and library use guidelines questions.

• Assist in maintaining the appearance of the library, keeping it neat and orderly.

• Must work a minimum of 7 hrs/week, but no more than 20 hrs/week.

• Must be able to work weekends and during exam week periods.

• Adhere to all library policies and procedures.

• Assist with general library duties as required. Special projects as assigned.

• If unable to work an assigned shift, must be able to find a substitute for that shift.

Shannon Library

160 McCormick Rd

Charlottesville, VA 22904

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Current UVA Graduate Student
Experience: none
Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.