Job Description

Working Title: Library Stacks Assistant (Physical Collections & Access Department) 

Instructions for Applying: 

• Complete the U-M student temporary employment application located under:
  • Wolverine Access > Student Business  
• Apply online at: 
  • https://forms.gle/2DuzCx1FnsX42NWc9 

We are currently hiring students for the Fall 2026 semester, with the option to continue work in future semesters.

As part of the Physical Collections & Access team, Stacks Assistants play an important role in supporting the library’s mission by ensuring that collections are well-organized and accessible across multiple locations, including the Hatcher Graduate Library, Shapiro Undergraduate Library, and Buhr Shelving Facility. This position is a good fit for students who enjoy organized, detail-oriented work and are comfortable working independently. Please note that this is a physically demanding role that includes pushing loaded book trucks, lifting materials, and standing or moving for most of each shift. Students work an average of 12 hours per week, with shifts ranging from 2 to 5 hours.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities:

• Sort and shelve returned materials in correct call number order (training provided)
• Shift and reorganize collections to maintain orderly and accessible shelves
• Retrieve and prepare materials requested by library users
• Perform shelf-reading to ensure materials are in proper order
• Provide basic assistance to patrons (e.g., directions, locating materials, catalog help)
• Collect and reshelve materials used within library spaces
• Maintain clean and organized work areas
• Assist with special projects and other duties as assigned

Schedule:

While scheduling is flexible, the following time blocks are the highest priority:

• Weekdays: 8:00 am - 10:00 am; 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
• Sunday: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Students are required to work a minimum of 8 hours per week and fulfill at least one high-priority shift per week. After meeting these requirements, a tailored schedule will be created to accommodate individual needs. Available shifts typically fall within the following hours:

• Monday to Friday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
• Sunday: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Required Qualifications:

• Strong attention to detail and an aptitude for accuracy in all tasks.
• Ability to work independently, stay focused, and remain on task with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated reliability with a consistent work schedule.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to push fully loaded book trucks and lift/carry books or boxes weighing up to 25 pounds without assistance.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks throughout shift.
• Ability to frequently bend, crouch, squat, twist, and reach to shelve materials at various heights, from floor level to overhead.
• Comfort with climbing and working from stools and step ladders to access higher shelves.

Desired Qualifications:

• Prior library experience and/or familiarity with the Library of Congress classification system is a plus, though not required