Department
Library C & A - E-Resources
About the Department
Widely known as guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff.
As part of the University of Chicago, we offer a wide variety of strong benefits and programs to academics and staff. From a choice of comprehensive health plan options and wellness programs, short and long-term disability insurance, continuing education opportunities including educational assistance plans, competitive retirement plans and paid time off (vacation, personal and University holidays), we’re committed to providing benefits and a work environment that matters!
Toward this end, University of Chicago Library’s Technical Services Department connects students, faculty, staff, and visiting researchers with resources and services supporting their scholarly and creative endeavors. One of five units in Library Technical Services, Electronic Resources Management is responsible for the acquisitions and ongoing management of electronic resources added to the Library’s collection. This includes initial purchasing, access set up, patron discovery, renewals for ongoing e-resources, and troubleshooting access issues. Special data analytics projects are common as well.
Job Information
Job Summary:
Under the supervision of the Electronic Resources Management Librarian, and following established procedures, the Electronic Resources Management Assistant performs a broad range of complex and routine acquisitions and Electronic Resources Management (ERM) processes. The Assistant is responsible for access and maintenance of databases, e-books, and e-journals; troubleshooting and problem resolution; and statistics, data gathering, and analysis for renewals, annual reports, and special projects. The role may hire, train, plan, and direct the work of student employees in a range of routine library tasks.
Responsibilities:
Manage assigned subscription renewals and cancellations, including requesting quotes from vendors, retrieving usage data, getting approval from librarians and administrators as necessary, updating data within library systems, notifying vendors of decisions, and ensuring all invoices for assigned renewals are sent promptly for payment.
Provide direct assistance for e-resource access issues to patrons and library staff through ticketing system (LibAnswers), email, phone, and live video walkthroughs (Zoom/Teams).
Place orders, follow up on outstanding orders, and ensure appropriate access is provided for all new orders and that all invoices are sent for payment.
Create and update records in the integrated library system (FOLIO) to document purchases, subscriptions and open access to resources.
Create and update records in discovery systems (SFX, LibGuides, etc.) to record our holdings and make resources available to users.
Set up new platforms and troubleshoot authentication issues, working with the vendor and our OpenAthens provider as needed.
Navigate through vendor interfaces to find, download, and compile usage statistics from a wide variety of sources.
May hire, train, plan, and direct the work of student employees.
Other duties as assigned.
Competencies:
Demonstrate initiative, accuracy, thoroughness, and the ability to work independently and efficiently.
Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
Ability to establish and maintain relationships at all organizational levels.
Ability to be flexible and adapt readily to changes in technology and workflow.
Ability to use discretion and problem-solving in everyday tasks with confidence and a mindset open…