Patron Resource Coordinator (HR Title: Library Specialist 4) Job at Southern Met

Overview

Patron Resource Coordinator (HR Title: Library Specialist 4) - ( CEN00000062 )

Hourly Range: $23.83 - $25.64 / hour

About SMU

SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and 90 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, hands-on research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs. The University offers a strong foundation in the humanities and sciences and undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs through eight schools.

Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is increasingly recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical leaders in their professions and communities. On the most beautiful college campus in the country, SMU Mustangs are energized by unbridled opportunities – from teaching, learning and research to creativity, performance and athletic endeavor.

About Department

About SMU Libraries: SMU is a nationally ranked private research university in Dallas, Texas, with eight degree-granting schools and a vibrant campus community. SMU Libraries consists of six libraries on the main campus and one in Taos, NM, with the highly anticipated Rees-Jones Library of the American West set to open in 2027. Collaboration, innovation, and professional growth are at the heart of SMU Libraries, offering an engaging and supportive environment for library professionals to thrive.

About Fondren Library: Fondren Library is the main library on the SMU campus. It supports scholars in the sciences, humanities, social sciences, and engineering. With a collection of over 2 million volumes and librarians with expertise across disciplines, Fondren Library is critical to the research, teaching, and learning mission of the university.

About the Position

SMU Libraries is seeking a dedicated, service-oriented Patron Resource Coordinator to provide consistent, high-quality library services during evening hours. The Patron Resource Coordinator will work Sunday-Thursday, 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM during the Fall and Spring semesters, and 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM during initial training, intersession periods, and the summer term. As the primary staff member at the Fondren Library main desk, this position will play a key role in supporting library users, maintaining essential resources, and ensuring smooth operations in a welcoming environment.

Reporting to the Fondren Library Access Services Manager, the Patron Resource Coordinator will provide excellent customer service, assist with circulation services, troubleshoot user access issues related to library systems and online resources, and manage and maintain the course reserve collection. This position will also supervise the library building during evening hours, ensuring safety, policy adherence, and effective communication with security and other staff.

Essential Functions

Staff the main desk, assisting with checkouts, returns, fines, account issues, and general inquiries.

Supervise overnight student workers, ensuring completion of nightly checklists and closing procedures.

Troubleshoot access issues related to physical and digital collections; locate missing materials and correct shelving as needed.

Monitor patron activity and enforce library policies as needed.

Oversee Fondren Library course reserves, including processing faculty requests and maintaining materials.

Conduct regular nightly building checks, coordinate with facilities and security as necessary.

Assist with circulation projects and Ask Us inquiries as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

A high school diploma is required. Bachelor\'s degree preferred.

A minimum of 3 years of experience is required.

Required Qualifications:

Three years of work experience in an in-person public service role and library experience is preferred.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment.

Basic technology troubleshooting.

Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:

Familiarity with an integrated library system (ILS).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills.

Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning and time management skills.

Physical and Environmental Demands

• Sit for long periods of time

Deadline to Apply

Open until filled. Applications submitted by September 22, 2025 will receive priority consideration.

How to Apply

To be considered for this position, applicants are required to submit:

(1) A resume or CV,

(2) A cover letter that addresses the education and experience required and preferred for this position.

EEO Statement

SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.

SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefits. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution.

SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU\'s retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU.