Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State Abington, located about five miles north of Philadelphia, is seeking a Library Operations Supervisor to lead the daily operations of its library with an emphasis on circulation, collection maintenance, and customer service.
This position offers an excellent opportunity to provide front-facing customer service within a prestigious library system, while overseeing and supporting library staff and student assistants.
You will get to partner with many others at Penn State Abington and across the Pennsylvania State University Libraries as you support our students, faculty, and campus – giving you the opportunity to learn from and/or offer guidance to fellow employees.
Joining a supportive team, the Library Operations Supervisor will work independently and collaboratively to complete this position’s responsibilities, which include but are not limited to:
Facilitate and lead the daily operations of the library including coordination of circulation, reserves, interlibrary loan, acquisitions, catalog maintenance, collection maintenance, facilities, and user experience
Develop and implement operational procedures and oversee user experience assessment
Supervise library staff (full-time, part-time, and student) team members: hire, schedule, train, and conduct performance management
Collaborate with the Head Librarian on planning, implementing, and evaluating unit priorities including analysis and improvement of library services
Maintain and manage the library operations budget, contribute to budget planning and forecasting, allocate resources, make purchasing recommendations, and approve expenditures
Oversee circulation of library items both on-site and for interlibrary loan (ILL)
Provide outstanding customer service to students, faculty, and community users (e.g., answering questions, resolving concerns, and instructing patrons in technology, systems, and equipment)
Represent the library and the campus through regular communication with other Penn State units and through service on committees
Depending on the skills and interests of the successful candidate and needs of the department, the Library Operations Supervisor may also engage in the oversight of outreach activities, development of library guides, and/or the Ogontz Archive.
As part of a small yet impactful team, library staff are cross trained to complete duties in multiple areas as needed.
Experience providing leadership or guidance to others, demonstrated through formal supervisory responsibilities or by serving as an informal team lead or go‑to resource for questions and problem-solving
Committed to providing excellent customer service: demonstrated ability to be adaptable, flexible, and patient with customers and staff
Effective verbal and written communication
Excellent interpersonal skills; inclusive and respectful when working with others
Ability to stay organized with a high attention to detail and accuracy while multi-tasking
Demonstrated knowledge of library technical services, including acquisitions, cataloging, and collection maintenance
Ability and willingness to learn job-related software
Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools or comparable software used for communication, documentation, and spreadsheet management.
Experience with overseeing or developing a peer-to-peer library research program
Experience working with circulating technologies
Experience managing departmental budgets
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Library Operations Supervisor - Supervisor, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None If filled as Library Operations Supervisor - Senior Supervisor, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
This position will report to the Head Librarian of the Penn State Abington Library.
The Penn State Abington Library’s current hours of operation are from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern, from Monday to Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern on Friday.
The Library Operations Supervisor’s weekly schedule will be coordinated in consultation with the Head Librarian and library staff and may include opening and/or closing shifts. Working an infrequent weekend for event support is expected.
Important Note: This position requires regular on-site work.
The Pennsylvania State University Libraries is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
The Penn State Abington Library provides the Penn State Abington campus community with access to all resources and services offered by the Penn State University Libraries – one of the Top 10 research libraries in North America.
Penn State Abington is located in Abington, Pennsylvania, which is about five miles north of Philadelphia.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $42,100.00 - $67,300.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.