Library Services & Operations Specialist

Job Summary

The Library Services & Operations Specialist is an important role responsible for providing circulation, operational, and informational support to library patrons and staff. This specialist reports to the Associate Dean of Academic Services and acts as the primary service point contact, expertly handling diverse patron inquiries, from initial circulation transactions (loans, returns, ILLs) and reference assistance to resolving complex problems, complaints, and disruptive behavior.

The Specialist manages essential operational duties, including library opening/closing procedures and overseeing billing workflows for lost materials. Success in this role requires outstanding customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills—especially diplomacy and tact—to maintain a positive and productive environment within a diverse academic population. The role requires the use of independent judgment and initiative to interpret and enforce university and library policies.

The Academic Services Department comprises faculty librarians, specialized staff, and student employees who work collaboratively to advance departmental goals and priorities. The team delivers user-focused programs and services that support the scholarly and creative activities of the Cal Poly community. These programs empower effective inquiry and exploration of information resources while promoting the creation, collaboration, and sharing of work across diverse disciplines and professional practices.

Academic Services supports multiple modes of instruction and a variety of individual learning styles to help the campus community engage deeply with information and knowledge.

Demonstrated customer service experience requiring a very high level of diplomacy and professionalism. Ability to initiate, establish, and foster communication and teamwork by maintaining a positive, cooperative, productive work atmosphere in and outside the University with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships within a diverse population and with those from various cultural backgrounds. Excellent communication skills; ability to effectively communicate information in a clear and understandable manner, both verbally and in writing.

Thorough knowledge of English grammar, spelling and punctuation. Ability to interpret, communicate and apply policies and procedures. Demonstrated ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality.

High School or Equivalent certification plus two years of related library and/or clerical experience.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $47,772 - $50,700 per year
Classification Range: $47,772 - $69,600 per year
Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Anticipated Hiring Range referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Classification Range may be broader than what the University anticipates paying for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).
Cal Poly offers a best-in-class benefits program, including health, dental and vision insurance, retirement participation in the Public Employees' Retirement System, and educational benefits for eligible employees. See our benefits website for additional information.

Cal Poly is a nationally‑ranked public university located in San Luis Obispo, California, and known for its Learn by Doing philosophy. Each year more than 20,000 top‑tier students come to San Luis Obispo to put knowledge into action, taking their learning outside the classroom as they prepare for careers in engineering, agriculture, science, business, humanities and the built environment. Cal Poly's hands‑on philosophy, small class sizes and close student‑faculty mentorships result in graduates ready from day one to impact their communities, California and the world.

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