Library Technician

Overview:

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary is a multidenominational, evangelical graduate school committed to equipping Christian leaders to think theologically, engage globally, and live biblically. With nearly 1,400 students across campuses in Massachusetts, North Carolina, Florida, and online, Gordon-Conwell’s student body represents more than eighty-five denominations and fifty countries. The seminary offers master’s and doctoral programs—delivered in English, Spanish, and Portuguese—that combine academic excellence, spiritual formation, and a deep commitment to Scripture. Its 12,000 alumni serve Christ through ministry in the church, the academy, and the workplace. Gordon-Conwell is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools, the New England Commission of Higher Education, and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.

Position Summary:

The Library Technician provides primary leadership for Interlibrary Loan (ILL) services at the Goddard Library, supporting the research and learning needs of students, faculty, and staff across Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary’s multi campus and online network. This role manages borrowing and lending workflows, communicates with patrons and partner libraries, and ensures timely and accurate delivery of materials. Additional responsibilities include serving as the library liaison to the Student Government Association (SGA), cataloging and digital archiving of Doctor of Ministry (DMin) theses, creating thematic library displays, assisting with opening and closing procedures, and performing other duties as assigned.

Key Responsibilities:

• Interlibrary Loan (Primary Responsibility)

o Manage all borrowing and lending requests using OCLC WorldShare, bibliographic databases, and the library’s Integrated Library System (ILS).

o Verify citations, locate materials, and ensure accurate request fulfillment for patrons and partner institutions.

o Monitor request queues, update item statuses, and maintain accurate records in ILL and circulation systems.

o Coordinate shipping and receiving of physical materials, including packing, labeling, and courier arrangements.

o Scan and deliver electronic articles in compliance with copyright regulations.

o Communicate with patrons regarding request status, arrivals, overdue items, and problem resolution.

o Maintain ILL statistics, billing records, and documentation for internal reporting.

• 
  Student Government Association (SGA) Liaison

o Serve as the primary library contact for the SGA.

o Communicate student needs, coordinate library related initiatives, and support student driven programming or feedback processes.

• 
  Cataloging & Digital Archiving

o Catalog and process Doctor of Ministry (DMin) project theses.

o Digitize, upload, and maintain archival records in the library’s digital repository.

o Ensure metadata accuracy and long term accessibility of digital assets.

• 
  Thematic Library Displays

o Design and install rotating displays highlighting theological themes, authors, cultural observances, or seminary events.

o Collaborate with library staff and faculty to identify relevant topics and materials.

• 
  Library Operations

o Assist with opening and closing procedures, ensuring the library environment is prepared, safe, and welcoming.

o Provide general circulation, reference, or technical support as needed.

o Participate in special projects and “other duties as assigned” to support overall library operations.

Key Competencies:

• Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple and competing priorities in short-term and long-term objectives. Must have sound bibliographical, mathematical, and administrative skills.
• Cultural Intelligence: Commitment to collegiality, diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness. Demonstrated ability to collaborate and serve in a team environment that requires collegiality and regular collaboration across matrixed, multi-campus environment.
• Library Systems: Familiarity with and working understanding of integrated library acquisitions, and the technical functions that they perform strongly preferred. Must maintain a high level of accuracy in all areas.
• Communication and Interpersonal Effectiveness: Must have strong written and verbal communication skills. Must possess ability to deal constructively, tactfully, and cheerfully with staff, faculty, vendors, and library users.
• Technical Knowledge: Comfortable working with database management and internet research. Required competency with Microsoft Office, prioritizing Word and Excel. The ability to use web conferencing software (e.g., Zoom) preferred.
• Clear understanding of the mission of the Seminary and willingness to abide by the Statement of Faith and Community Life Statement of GCTS.

Education & Experience:

• Master's degree in library science or equivalent experience is required. A seminary master's degree may be substituted for a MLS with approval of the Senior Librarian.
• 1-3 years experience in library acquisitions or technical services preferred.
• Experience and skills with book keeping and/or administrative skills strongly preferred.

Application Process:

Please apply through Gordon-Conwell’s Career Center available here: https://www.gordonconwell.edu/employment/

Please include these documents in either Microsoft Word or PDF formats:

• A cover letter explaining your interest in the position.
• A formal CV that includes the names of at least three references required.

No hard copy materials, please. Opportunities to interview will be made available at the search committee’s initiative. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.