Description
Ask a Librarian (AaL) Assistants are student employees responsible for staffing the AaL online chat service. AaL services are intended to assist library users with library and research related questions. AaL staff are familiar with library services and a broad range of resources in order to meet library users’ needs. AaL Assistants are instrumental in empowering library users to navigate and interact with various resources and library services.

Responsibilities
After participating in mandatory, paid training, Ask a Librarian (AaL) Assistants are responsible for a variety of tasks that include, but are not limited to:
- Working with library users to develop research strategies.
- Instructing users in the use of library and computing resources.
- Interpreting, explaining, and upholding library policies.
- Referring users to appropriate library/campus resources, services, and experts.
- Resolving and/or reporting electronic resource access issues.
- Recording interactions with library users accurately and promptly into our data entry systems.
- Participating in continuous training.
- Contributing to other projects as needed. Previous projects have been in collection work and instructional design.

Job Training, Work Schedule, and Duration
There is a comprehensive training program that uses Canvas, Zoom, and observation shifts to prepare you for the work. AaL Assistants will be staffing online chat shifts, which can be conducted remotely. Shifts are 1-3 hours, and service hours are typically 9am-8pm Mondays-Thursdays, 10am-5pm Fridays, 1pm-5pm Saturdays, and 2pm-8pm Sundays. Students must be able to work at least two evening or weekend shifts. Reliable internet connection and computing equipment is necessary. Primarily remote work, but occasional onsite meetings and tasks may occur at the central campus libraries.

The anticipated start date for this position is November 2025. This is a long-term, continuous assignment to be renewed each semester.

Required Qualifications

- Current or incoming graduate students
- Excellent written communication and typing skills
- Strong interpersonal skills especially shown through experience teaching, tutoring, or in customer service roles
- Availability to work approximately 6-12 hours per week during service hours
- Weekend and evening availability
- Demonstrated reliability and ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
- Ability to commit to, at least, one full year of employment 

Desired Qualifications

- Previous library work experience OR demonstrated familiarity with library research tools
- Available to work Spring/Summer shifts (can be fully remote)
- Proven ability to respond to new and challenging situations
- Graduate students in an ALA accredited MLIS program