Resource Sharing Specialist (Library Services Associate), University Libraries

This position is located at the Pennsylvania State University Libraries at University Park. The Resource Sharing Specialist will join the Resource Sharing and Interlibrary Loan department, focusing on the borrowing team while supporting the broader resource sharing team to meet the research needs of Penn State University patrons and global library partners.

Responsibilities

• Process interlibrary loan borrowing requests using ILLiad and related systems.
• Search catalogs, databases, and online resources to verify citations and locate materials.
• Identify and coordinate with lending partners based on availability, cost, policies, and delivery timelines.
• Ensure compliance with copyright and resource-sharing policies.
• Communicate with patrons, lending libraries, acquisitions staff, and subject specialists to resolve requests and support fulfillment.
• Evaluate unfilled requests and determine appropriate next steps.
• Provide customer service to Penn State users and partner libraries via phone, email, ticketing systems, and in person.
• Monitor and respond to departmental email accounts and service requests.
• Deliver electronic articles and documents to patrons in a timely manner.
• Maintain procedures, documentation, and workflow processes.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the Libraries to support resource-sharing services.
• Assist with training, onboarding, hiring activities, and continuous service improvement.
• Represent the department in meetings, committees, and outreach activities.
• Receive, verify, and process interlibrary loan and E-ZBorrow materials.
• Document due dates, use restrictions, and special handling requirements.
• Prepare and distribute materials for patron pickup or electronic delivery.
• Process returned items and coordinate returns with lending institutions.
• Resolve issues involving incorrect, incomplete, or damaged materials.
• Maintain user borrowing privileges and records.
• Coordinate with circulation and billing staff to resolve patron account issues related to borrowed materials.

Requirements

• Experience working in a library environment with knowledge of library operations, patron services, and resource sharing practices.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and a proven record of reliable, timely task completion.
• Commitment to providing excellent customer service.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; inclusive and respectful when working with others.

Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of resource sharing, interlibrary loan, and document delivery services.
• Experience with or familiarity using resource sharing systems such as ILLiad, ReShare, RapidILL, and OCLC Resource Sharing.
• Knowledge of library circulation systems and the ability to effectively search library databases, catalogs, and online resources.
• Ability to research and resolve issues related to patron requests, citations, and resource access.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications:

• Associate Degree or
• 4+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

This position requires on-site presence; however, flexible work arrangements may be considered when aligned with unit needs and essential duties. The position reports to the Manager of the Resource Sharing and Delivery Services Borrowing team.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $40,608.00 - $58,836.00.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Robust retirement plans.
• Substantial paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• 75% tuition discount for employees, eligible spouses, and children.