Receiving and Rapid Cataloging Supervisor - University of Chicago

Widely known as guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff.

As part of the University of Chicago, we offer a wide variety of strong benefits and programs to academics and staff. From a choice of comprehensive health plan options and wellness programs, short and long-term disability insurance, continuing education opportunities including educational assistance plans, competitive retirement plans and paid time off (vacation, personal and university holidays), we’re committed to providing benefits and a work environment that matters!

The University of Chicago Library empowers intellectual discovery, rigorous learning, and global engagement through its deep and rich collections, extensive expertise, innovative programs, and diverse spaces. The Receiving and Rapid Cataloging unit, one of two units in the Acquisitions section, supports the research and teaching objectives of the University of Chicago through the effective and timely management and initial discovery of newly acquired resources.

The Receiving and Rapid Cataloging (RRC) Supervisor is responsible for coordinating the daily operational activities of the RRC unit and working with assigned clerical staff and students, the Ordering Supervisor and the Head of Acquisitions to ensure smooth services and operations across the Acquisitions section. The RRC unit upholds the critical mission of getting Library resources into the library collection for patron use. The RRC Supervisor focuses on the development of staff who work together to meet the goals of the unit and section, leveraging unit guidelines and procedures that support searching, receiving and rapid cataloging of monographic materials in all languages except Chinese, Japanese and Korean and in all formats (books, music scores, film, CDs, microform, maps, etc.). The unit supports the collections of the Regenstein Library and its’ satellite libraries, excluding the D’Angelo Law Library.

Responsibilities

  • Directs, distributes, and oversees the work of the unit to meet the goals of the section, including, managing the process of acquiring new collection materials; planning and organizing unit priorities and distributing duties to staff in accordance with established policies and procedures.
  • Coaches staff in problem identification and problem solving; manages mailroom activities, including sorting and triaging in-coming shipments of materials along with inventory management; conducts regular quality control checks and provide ongoing feedback and training to staff and students for improvement; and engages in complex problem-solving related to the unit.
  • Responsible for all unit management duties, including unit hiring of clerical staff and part-time student positions, including performance evaluations and disciplinary procedures (up to and including termination) in consultation with the Head of Acquisitions and Library Human Resources.
  • Creates and delivers the training essential to performing receiving and rapid cataloging tasks; covering the use of online systems and tools; communicates changes in policies and procedures external to the unit that may affect workflows; and revises procedures as needed.
  • Works in tandem with the Supervisor for the Ordering Unit to ensure service quality, staff management and expertise coordination across the section, and keeps section Head informed of any issues concerning the operations of the unit and/or performance of staff.
  • Maintains an open and ongoing dialog with other supervisors and managers in Collection Support, Technical Services, Preservation, and Collection Management regarding workflow, changes in procedures, staff assignments, and/or any issues that arise.
  • Attends meetings, training sessions, or other library functions, and participates actively in discussions related to long-term distribution of duties and workflows.
  • Controls the execution of tasks within a particular subject or functional area requiring an in-depth knowledge of library practices and procedures.
  • Interviews, hires, and trains employees; sets and adjusts staff schedules, and manages performance.
  • Performs other related work as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Work Experience: Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of related library or industry experience (e.g., inventory management, logistics, book trade sales or publishing, data management, service management, etc.).
Supervisory experience.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

  • Knowledge of searching online databases.
  • Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software.
  • Reading knowledge of at least one (1) non-English language.

Preferred Competencies

  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely verbally and in writing.
  • Critical thinking and analytical skills.
  • Ability to effectively train and teach others.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with leadership and colleagues, and interact with clarity, tact and courtesy with Library staff, vendors, and others.
  • Organizational skills and strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to manage complex tasks, projects, and workflows.
  • Ability to multitask and handle frequent interruptions.
  • Flexibility and adaptability in managing tasks to meet changes in procedures, processes, and technology.
  • Demonstrated sound judgment and effective, independent problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Working Conditions

  • Hybrid schedule possible depending on the needs of the department.
  • Ability to bend, crouch, or stoop.
  • Ability to push/pull loaded book carts.
  • Ability to carry or lift loads of up to 49 lbs.

Application Documents

  • Resume (required)
  • Cover letter (preferred)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

To Apply

To apply for this position, external candidates must submit an application and any other required materials through https://uchicago.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/External/job/Chicago-IL/Receiving-and-Rapid-Cataloging-Supervisor_JR27618-1. Internal candidates must apply by logging into Workday and selecting the Career worklet; for more information, please see How to Apply for a UChicago Job (Current Employee) QRG. Resumes sent via mail, fax, or email will not be considered. For more information, please see https://www.uchicago.edu/jobs/.

Posting Statement:​​

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

Requisition Number: JR27618
Division /Dept. / Unit: Library C & A - Tech Serv - Acquisitions Services Admin
Reports to: Head of Acquisitions
Work Schedule: 37.5 Hours Per Week