Job Title: Library Technical Specialist II, Electronic Resources
Classification: T2
Department: Library
Updated: February 2020

Job Summary

Ensures uninterrupted access to over two million dollars of licensed databases, electronic books and journals by managing and troubleshooting the communications between the University and publishers and vendors.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions:

• Ensuring continual, consistent online access to digital content for the entire library system in an environment that is characterized by rapidly evolving technologies, less-than-stable digital content and publishers, and multiple protocols and standards.
• Manages an expanding suite of high-end software that provides rapid and seamless access to the library’s electronic resources
• Upon request investigates, recommends and implements next generation software to further enhance access
• Populates and maintains Article Linker (open URL protocol to find full-text in electronic databases), electronic resource management system (tracks contract details for journals, databases and electronic resource providers) and federated search engine (maximizes search results by facilitating multiple database inquiries through a single interface)
• Builds and configures primary access list of electronic journals for University community
• Coordinates mass updates to catalog records to show electronic holdings
• Creates and applies statistical modeling to ensure connections to over 70,000 journals, 250,000 electronic books, 200 databases and streaming music and video services.
• Assists in configuring and branding newly acquired electronic resources by accessing and modifying multiple web interfaces
• Responds quickly to reported interruption in access to electronic resources by  ascertaining relevant information and taking appropriate action
• Compiles usage statistics and performs overlap analysis to assist decision-makers in the purchases of electronic resources
• Interacts daily with resources providers to resolve connectivity issues
• Provides special expertise in electronic resource access and assists at the reference desk
• Assist in the supervision of student employees and the coordination of their work

Non-Essential Functions:

• None

Required Qualifications:

• Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex information from technical and procedural manuals
• Possess strong skills with computer interfaces
• Ability to prioritize multiple demands in a fast-paced work environment while delivering exemplary customer service
• Ability to maintain positive interpersonal relationships with diverse populations
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Ability to use discretion and judgment in interpreting polices and applying procedures
• Ability to communicate clearly and tactfully
• Ability to solve problems quickly and independently, occasionally with limited backup resources
• Possess strong verbal and written communication skills
• Minimum of 2 years related work experience and/or relevant training
• High school diploma

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 2 years specific electronic resources management experience
• Familiarity and experience with an integrated library system

Supervision Received:

Receives minimal supervision from a designated supervisor.  Much of the work is self-initiated.  Person is expected to function with considerable independence and apply appropriate policies and procedures within the assigned area of responsibility. .

Supervision Exercised:

Hire, train, schedule and coordinate the work of student employees and may act as lead worker to PSS staff members within the department/unit/division. 

Physical Demands:

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties are performed by the individuals currently holding this position and additional duties may be assigned.

For questions regarding employment, email Human Resources.  TDD Callers: Call Michigan Relay Center 1-800-649-3777.

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