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Graduate Reference Assistant Program: Home

Graduate Reference Assistant Program

Job Title:              Graduate Reference Assistant (GRA)
Location:              Monmouth University Library
Job Summary:     Assists library patrons with directional and routine entry-level questions at the Monmouth University Library
                            reference desk
Eligibility:              Eligibility is determined by the Graduate School in keeping with existing Graduate Assistant employment process.
                             Applicants must file an application for graduate assistantship.
Hours/Schedule:   6.5 hours per week.  Schedule to be determined.  Must be available M-F from 10 AM-6 PM
Qualifications:

  • punctuality, dependability
  • excellent English communication skills
  • strong “people skills”: patience, persistence, cordiality
  • productive use of desk time
  • consistent engagement with all patrons
  • familiarity with Monmouth University campus community and research experience a plus
  • customer service experience a plus

Evaluation:            Ongoing evaluation based on job performance.  Must maintain a weekly reflective journal/log
Training:                One-on-one training will be provided by librarians on ongoing basis. Online training manual will be
                              provided.             
Benefits:

  • flexible hours
  • experience gained to begin crafting a work resume
  • improved personal research skills
  • mentoring provided by professional librarians

Graduate Reference Assistant's Responsibilities

Graduate Reference Assistant responsibilities:

  • staffs reference desk; answers directional and routine, entry-level reference questions via email, chat, telephone, or in-person

  • refers patrons to librarians or other information points as appropriate

  • maintains familiarity with library policies and working knowledge of University and Library websites

  • assists patrons with basic catalog, HawkFind, and single database searches

  • completes special projects at the request of librarians

Librarian Supervisor's Responsibilities

Librarians will support the graduate assistants working at the reference desk by providing:

  • Library tour
  • Introduction to the Library website
  • Job shadowing at the reference desk
  • Training in reference interviews and responding to basic questions (use guide tabs above)
  • This Research Guide serves as a training manual
  • FAQ - responses to frequently asked questions (see FAQ tab in this guide)
  • Mentoring