Academic Reference Librarian & Collections Specialist

Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® (IMSA); Aurora, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 61,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) seeks a Library Specialist to manage collection development, reference services, and instructional support as part of the IMSA IRC team. This full-time, academic-year position emphasizes equity, inclusion, and service excellence for students and staff.

The role requires an ALA-accredited Master’s in Library Science, strong communication skills, and experience with online catalogs, research instruction, and information resources.

Qualifications

• ALA-accredited Master’s Degree in Library Science.
• Experience in collection development, reference services, online searching, and library instruction.
• Experience in academic/school environments.
• Strong customer focus.
• Proficiency with current information technologies and computer applications.
• Knowledge of trends, standards, and practices in library services.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced setting.
• Ability to work with diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Review resources to identify additions for IMSA collection.
• Maintain relationships with faculty, staff and students to stay current with curriculum and needs.
• Assess collection for balance, utility, timeliness, and format.
• Coordinate input of orders in online system.
• Promote new acquisitions to users.
• Develop research skills classes with IMSA faculty.
• Create and update online guides and web resources.
• Maintain IMSA library webpage.
• Work with IRC team to optimize operations and patron services.
• Conduct special projects in collection development and reference.
• Assist daily library operations and other duties as assigned.

Skills

Collection development

Reference services

Online searching

Research strategies

Library instruction

Customer focus

Information technologies

Interpersonal communication

Independence & teamwork

Diversity & inclusion

Education

ALA-accredited Master’s in Library Science

Job description

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) seeks a Library Specialist to manage collection development, reference services, and instructional support as part of the IMSA IRC team. This full-time, academic-year position emphasizes equity, inclusion, and service excellence for students and staff.

The role requires an ALA-accredited Master’s in Library Science, strong communication skills, and experience with online catalogs, research instruction, and information resources.