Graduate Student Library Assistant - Public Services
Department
Position Type
Pay Rate
Description
The Public Services Department of John C. Hodges Library is seeking a Graduate Student Library Assistant (GSLA) to work collaboratively with Public Services staff to provide reference support and customer service through the Public Services and Research Assistance service points—both in person and virtually. This role provides students an opportunity to gain experience in academic librarianship, reference, customer service, and professional development.
Graduate student must be available to work one or more shifts, Friday - Sunday, for a total of 8 – 15 hours per week with the possibility of more hours if available. Schedules are designed per semester.
Responsibilities & Duties
• Provide a positive, welcoming environment for patrons
• Locate, interpret, evaluate, and use information sources to assist patrons with reference inquiries
• Operate circulation, reference, reserve, and other modules to provide customer service at a public-facing desk
• Work in a team-based environment to triage patron needs and direct to appropriate people or departments
• Participate in training, group discussions, and other developmental activities
• Additional duties as needed
Required Qualifications
• Current or in-coming graduate student at the University of Tennessee
• Ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds
• Demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated commitment to professional development
Preferred Qualifications
• Current or incoming graduate student in the School of Information Sciences
• Experience in customer service
• Knowledge of information resources and search strategies
• Available to work at least two semesters
Benefits
This position does not include a tuition waiver.
Application Procedures
Please email your cover letter, resume, and references to Taylor McPeake (tmcpeak1@utk.edu). Include the hours you are available to work for Spring Semester 2026. Review of applications will continue until position is filled.