Code
0041
PCLS
C5025
Pay Grade
110
Exempt
No
ORP
No
EEO Code
5
Title
Library Interlibrary Loan Specialist
Description

The Interlibrary Loan (ILL) Specialist facilitates patron access to materials not available in the library’s collection. Responsibilities include processing borrowing and lending requests, coordinating with other libraries, and maintaining ILL records. Additionally, they play a key role in promoting a welcoming and service-oriented environment for library users while supporting their academic needs. This position reports to the Associate University Librarian for Public Services.

Examples

Develop and implement departmental policies and procedures, ensuring they align with the mission and goals of the library. Process borrowing requests from patrons, including verifying citations, locating materials, and submitting requests to partner libraries or consortia. Review and process lending requests from other libraries and locate requested materials within the library's collection. Communicate effectively with patrons regarding the status of requests, including providing updates on availability, delivery times, and any issues that arise. Address any problems or concerns related to ILL transactions, such as lost or damaged materials, delays in delivery, or discrepancies in requested items. Facilitate resource delivery services by providing patrons access to physical and online resources from the library’s own collection. Provide support on how to use ILL services effectively, including navigating online request forms and understanding loan policies. Maintain accurate records of ILL and resource delivery transactions using the library's integrated library system (ILS) and interlibrary loan management software. Contribute to collection development by identifying materials requested through ILL that may be suitable for acquisition into the library's own collection. Assist with library instruction sessions, workshops, or orientations for patrons on topics related to ILL services and resource delivery. Contribute to the assessment and evaluation of ILL and resource delivery services, including gathering feedback from patrons and making recommendations for improvements. Compile and analyze usage statistics for the interlibrary loan department to track service trends, assess efficiency, and inform decision-making processes. Ensure that all transactions comply with copyright laws and licensing agreements, including obtaining necessary permissions when required. Participate in interlibrary loan networks, consortia, or resource-sharing groups to expand access to materials and improve service efficiency. Assist with locating materials by utilizing the library catalog and guiding patrons to the corresponding items within the stacks. Provide information on how to navigate the library's online resources, including databases, electronic journals, research guides, and digital repositories. Offer basic technical support, including assistance with wireless network issues, accessing library resources remotely, and troubleshooting login problems for library accounts and other services. Refer patrons to the Instruction Librarians or other appropriate departments for more in-depth assistance when necessary. Provide backup coverage for the circulation desk during regularly scheduled shifts and as needed. Assist with collection management projects including shelf reading, weeding, and inventory. Monitor the library's online chat platform and respond promptly and accurately to patron questions. Manage student workers, including hiring, training, scheduling, and evaluating performance. Stay up to date on trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in interlibrary loan and related areas through professional development activities, training sessions, and conferences. Contribute to library meetings and committees by sharing insights, providing feedback, and collaborating with colleagues to enhance library services and operations. Perform other duties as assigned by library management

Physical Condition

.

Experience

Library experience is desirable. Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. Ability to provide exemplary customer service. Demonstrated organizational, analytical, time management, and problem-solving skills. Experience with word-processing, spreadsheets, and databases.

Knowledge

Knowledge of library materials and bibliographic tools. Familiarity with library policies as they relate to interlibrary lending. Understanding of integrated library systems. 

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred. One year of college or research library experience (12 hours of applicable Library Science credit from an ALA accredited library school may be substituted for one year of academic library experience).

Additional Requirements

Must have the ability to be flexible with job responsibilities and exercise sound judgement. Self-directed and self-motivated learner with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a changing environment. Must maintain current professional knowledge through on-going reading, training, and participation in professional organizations.

Standard Requirements

Requires the ability to maintain positive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and the community. Must adhere to University’s core values: People-Centered, Community, Integrity, Visionary, and Connections, per the MSU Texas Values Journey. Personal cell phone usage may be required to complete position duties, including multi-function authentication requirements. Regular reliable attendance is required.

This position is designated as security sensitive (Mod) and requires a criminal background check. Position is designated as a Responsible Employee as outlined by Title IX. May serve as Campus Security Authority as outlined by the Clery Act.

Last Updated 02-06-2025