Library Assistant, Stacks Maintenance and Retrieval

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

At Duke University Libraries, we value individuals who bring care, curiosity, and a commitment to service. In this role, you will help maintain the integrity and accessibility of our physical collections while supporting a welcoming environment for all library users.

This position plays a vital role in ensuring Duke Libraries remain organized, accessible, and responsive to user needs. You will work across library spaces, support evolving collections, and contribute to a service-focused culture grounded in collaboration and inclusion.

• Assist with the planning, coordination, and daily execution of stacks maintenance activities across all floors of Perkins & Bostock Libraries.
• Inspect library floors daily to retrieve, return, and reshelve materials used by patrons.
• Check in new materials using the Alma Library Management System; sort returned items and prepare shelving trucks.
• Maintain appropriate shelf space by shifting collections and updating stack signage as needed.
• Monitor and report the condition of stacks and library floors to supervisors and appropriate staff.
• Provide direct assistance to patrons in locating materials within the stacks and sorting areas.
• Staff the Perkins Service Desk on a regular schedule, supporting and training student employees while delivering customer-focused service.
• Assist with training and oversight of student employees assigned to stacks maintenance.
• Perform additional duties as assigned in support of library operations.

• Two years of post-secondary education or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• At least three months of related work experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Basic proficiency with standard office and productivity technologies.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and complete daily tasks efficiently.
• Demonstrated commitment to providing outstanding customer service.
• Preferred: experience in a large academic library, knowledge of Library of Congress call numbers, customer service training, or experience with online databases.

Duke University Libraries are guided by a commitment to exceptional service, collaboration, continuous learning, and diversity. Staff are expected to uphold the Duke Libraries User Service Philosophy by fostering respectful, empathetic, and inclusive interactions with all members of our community.

Join Duke University Libraries and contribute to the stewardship of world-class collections while supporting a vibrant academic community.