Senior Research Librarian

Library of Parliament; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Library of Parliament seeks a Senior Research Librarian to provide expert information services to parliamentarians. The role involves delivering personalized research, mentoring staff, and requires a Master's degree in library studies along with extensive experience in reference services.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience (3+ years) in providing reference services.
• Bilingual in English and French.
• Knowledge of Canadian Parliament and federal government.

Responsibilities

• Deliver personalized, non-partisan research and information services.
• Mentor and support team members on library standards.
• Assess client requests and distribute workload effectively.

Skills

Information retrieval

Data analysis

Analytical thinking

Client focus

Communication

Education

Master’s degree in library and information studies

Job description

The Library of Parliament is a non-partisan organization that offers a dynamic work environment guided by principles of agility, collaboration, excellence, impartiality, and inclusion. Recognized as a Top Employer in the National Capital Region, we invite applications for the role of Senior Research Librarian.

Job Description

Reporting to the Senior Manager or Manager, the Senior Research Librarian provides expert support to meet the information and reference needs of parliamentarians, their staff, and other authorized clients. This role involves delivering in-depth information through electronic and print resources, mentoring research teams, and ensuring high-quality research services.

Key Responsibilities

1. Deliver personalized, non-partisan research and information services to clients via various communication channels.
2. Mentor and support team members by advising on sources, reviewing work, and ensuring responses meet Library standards.
3. Assess and coordinate client requests, distributing workload effectively across teams.
4. Report on team performance, training needs, and operational issues to management.
5. Collaborate with managers to train staff in research techniques, library procedures, and parliamentary context, including arranging advanced training as needed.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in library and information studies from an ALA-accredited program.
• Extensive experience (3+ years) in conducting in-depth searches, providing reference services, and responding in both English and French.
• Knowledge of the Canadian Parliament, federal government, current affairs, and reference service practices.
• Proficiency in search methods, information retrieval, and evaluation techniques.

Competencies and Asset Criteria

• Adaptability, client focus, diversity, integrity, organizational awareness, data analysis, quality focus, communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking.
• Experience in coaching, mentoring, reviewing responses, and editing documents.

Operational and Employment Conditions

• Ability to work evening shifts during sitting weeks.
• Second-language evaluation (Bilingual staffing – imperative): CCC / CCC.
• Successful security screening.

Application Process

Please include a cover letter explaining how you meet the education and experience requirements. Submit your cover letter and CV as a single document or upload the cover letter on the second page of the application form.

The Library encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and is committed to an inclusive, accessible hiring process. For accommodations or accessible materials, contact us at [emailprotected].

Selection Process

The process may include a second-language evaluation, written exam, and interview. Candidates must pass each stage to proceed. Successful candidates may be considered for various positions requiring similar qualifications. References and proof of education are required for appointment. Travel and relocation expenses are the responsibility of the candidate.

Learn more about us at About the Library of Parliament of Canada and our staffing FAQs.