Do I stay a distant admirer or do I tell him?

I'm 23 yrs old and go to college. I have a crush on this guy that works at the college but I'm too shy to say so. And I don't know how to go about it without being awkward. Should I stay a distant admirer or should I tell him that it would be nice to get to know him? Provided if he isn't already in a relationship or married. I have to find that out first though. But until then, any advice? Also the first time I saw him, he did give eye contact and he had a great smile but that doesn't say anything as to if he likes me too. My biggest fear is making a fool of myself and get embarred. I can handle rejection but I would hope in a nice mature way. I'm a hopeless romantic who has never had a boyfriend before and only dreams of one day finding that special someone...