Technology Usage
Circulation Computers:
Should the Circulation Desk computers go down, you are to notify the Access Services Supervisor. If the Access Services Supervisor is unavailable, then the Student Assistant on duty should inform the UITS Support Center.
If the WorkFlows software does not work please follow the instructions on the SirsiDynix Symphony Support sheet on the bulletin board. This sheet contains important contact and problem-solving information.
The speakers on the circulation computers must always be set loudly enough to hear alerts from incoming Teams messages. Therefore, you should not be watching videos or listening to other audio on the circulation computers as this could distract and disrupt users.
All Library training videos include captions, as should all videos assigned for your courses. If you need to watch a video or listen to audio that does not include captions or transcript for a homework assignment, then that assignment should not be completed while you are working.
Downloading Software:
Student Assistants may not download or install software on the circulation computers. UITS may troubleshoot these computers—please inform Access Services Supervisor when this happens.
Internet Usage:
Student Assistants may use the Internet to access library resources to assist users, or for homework after all other duties are completed. Your use must align with IU policy, including but not limited to IT-01 Appropriate Use of Information Technology Resources, and the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct. Unauthorized or improper use of university equipment is a reason for dismissal.
Telephone:
Student Assistants should answer the phone by saying the following:
Good morning/afternoon/evening thank you for calling the IU Kokomo Library. This is (your name). How may I help you?
If you are unable to answer the question, refer to the Circulation FAQs in the modules tabs. If you are still unsure, ask another SA. If you are unable to answer their question, transfer the call to someone who will be able to answer the question.
Instructions for transferring a call:
- Select transfer
- Select transfer now
- Enter name or extension
- Wait a moment before hanging up
Under no circumstances are Library Student Assistants to give out the private phone numbers of employees. Student Assistants receive a list of relevant phone numbers so that they may communicate with each other when needed.
The Circulation Desk phone is not for personal calls. Student Assistants should direct users to the campus phone located near the west exit of the library building or the Welcome Desk.
Student Assistants are to answer the phone at the Research Help Desk if there is no librarian at the desk. Try to assist the caller. If the Student Assistant is unable to assist, transfer the caller to the librarian on duty. If no librarian is on duty, ask Access Services Supervisor for assistance. If neither is available, complete the Library Contact Request Form.
Personal devices (laptops, tablets, and phones):
We discourage the use of devices while working at the circulation desk to minimize distractions and maintain approachability for users. If you need to use a personal device to do homework that can not be completed on the circulation computers, you can only do so after all other duties are completed.
If you choose to take your personal phone with you during your time on the floor, it must be kept in your pocket. You may wear one headphone to listen to audio at a low volume while you shelve books, shelf read, or complete inventory. You are not permitted to watch videos, read, play games, or scroll social media on your phone while you are working on the floor. Doing so prevents you from efficiently accomplishing your tasks and appearing approachable to users.
Personal calls should only be made during your break or when you have finished your shift.
If a supervisor or librarian notices that your personal device is causing too much of a distraction, or causing you to appear or be less approachable to users, they may ask you to stop using your device.
Headphones:
Student Assistants must not wear headphones of any kind while they are working at the circulation desk.
Student Assistants who are on the floor may wear one headphone at a low volume to listen to audio only. Remember that even when you are on the floor, you must be alert and available to users who may approach you with questions.
If you are shelf reading collections shelved at the circulation desk (Reserves and DVD drawers), you must not wear headphones as you are still working at the desk.
If a supervisor or librarian determines that your personal device is causing too much of a distraction, or causing you to appear less approachable to users, they may ask you to stop using that device.
If you have an accessibility need or concern with this or any other guideline, please discuss this with the Access Services Supervisor.
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