Access Services Specialist at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN

Job description

Position Summary : This position serves as Access Services Specialist in the Logistics and Access Services department within the Vanderbilt University Libraries. Logistics and Access Services is a newly reimagined department, which aims to remake access services to meet current and future needs. This individual is part of a team responsible for services and projects related to the access of print and digital materials in the Vanderbilt Libraries to optimize space, accessibility, and user experience in the Central Library and the Annex. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, be able to handle ambiguity and change, be proficient in a variety of technology applications, automation mapping, and possess an ability to work independently and collaboratively with library staff. This position reports to the Manager, Access Services. About the Work Unit : The Logistics and Access Services department is based in the Central Library and the Annex and with the potential to be deployed across the library system to fulfill mission-critical service needs works in a team-based model, where responsibilities are shared, and planning and decision making are done collaboratively. The Logistics and Access Services department is tasked with developing a forward-looking service model that strategically aligns with the evolving needs of the Vanderbilt user community, ensuring relevance and sustainability. Moving beyond routine transactions, this department will focus on seamless access, exceptional user experiences, and transformative projects related to legacy print collections (such as mass digitization) all with an eye toward defining the future of library access for the next decade and beyond. Positions in this department are intentionally designed to be highly flexible and adaptable to strategic priorities. In addition to supporting core departmental needs, Access Services Specialists are equipped to meet emerging demands across the library system by moving beyond traditional transactional support to a model that prioritizes proactive service, user engagement, and operational agility. They may be deployed across various service desks and library locations to ensure consistent, high-quality interactions with patrons, contributing to a unified service experience. This adaptability positions the role as a key component in advancing a future-oriented library system built on responsiveness, efficiency, and cross-functional collaboration. The team will leverage technology to automate processes and enhance efficiency in next-generation access services. The Access Services Specialist is based in the Central Library and will work on projects in the Central Library, the Annex and throughout the Heard Libraries. The Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries at Vanderbilt University comprises nine libraries, as well as service departments in collections services, digital scholarship & scholarly communications, information technology and digital services, and teaching & learning. We seek to create a welcoming environment and serve as a partner in research and scholarship. The libraries are dynamic places for faculty, staff, students, and alumni to reflect and discover. We also strive to be a workplace in which staff at every level continuously grow in knowledge and skills, staying abreast of advances and trends in librarianship to power relevant, vibrant research libraries. The Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries are fundamental to the university’s goal of advancing scholarship and learning. We collect, preserve and make accessible a wide variety of resources, we partner with faculty and students to shape research, and we encourage the development of informed scholars and engaged citizens. Key Functions and Expected Performance Logistical Services and Transformative Projects – 40% Works closely with the Manager of Access Services and teammates to define scope of projects and execute project deliverables according to a prescribed