Reference and Instruction Librarian

Penn State University; Media (Delaware County); On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Paid time off

Generous tuition discount

Job summary

Penn State University is looking for two term librarians for the Brandywine Campus Library and the Life Sciences Library. These positions are geared toward entry-level candidates and will start in summer 2026.

Responsibilities include providing reference services and collaborating with the STEM libraries team. Candidates must possess an MLS degree from an ALA-accredited program, with strong communication skills and a commitment to inclusivity.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace.
• Experience in providing library outreach.
• Knowledge of science information sources for Life Sciences Librarian.

Responsibilities

• Engage students and faculty through outreach and engagement.
• Develop online library guides and tutorials.
• Provide reference assistance and research consulting.

Skills

Effective communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to work independently

Ability to work collaboratively

Education

MLS degree from an ALA-accredited program

Job description

Position Overview

The Pennsylvania State University Libraries is seeking two term librarians, both non‑tenure line positions, to serve at the Brandywine Campus Library and the Life Sciences Library at University Park Campus. These are entry‑level to early‑career positions.

Location and Role Summary

• Reference & Instruction Librarian – Brandywine Library: Provide reference services, teach instruction, support student engagement and outreach. Serves a user community of roughly 1,000 students, staff, faculty and the greater Philadelphia area.
• Life Sciences Librarian – University Park: Join the STEM Libraries team to offer research consultations, develop instruction programs and collaborate on student outreach. Primarily supports students and faculty in the College of Agricultural Sciences across multiple departments.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Collaborate with colleagues to engage students and faculty through outreach and engagement.
• Contribute to a program of library instruction, present workshops, and develop online library guides and tutorials that support the curriculum.
• Provide reference assistance and research consulting at all levels, face‑to‑face and online.

Qualifications

Required

• MLS degree from an ALA‑accredited program (or equivalent/advanced degree in relevant discipline).
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Preferred

• Experience providing instruction, library outreach, and research support.
• For the Life Sciences Librarian only – knowledge of science information sources.

Application Process

Current Penn State employees and students must apply via Workday. External applicants should click Apply. All materials must be submitted through Workday. Candidates upload a resume or CV, a list of three professional references, and responses to the required prompts (1500 characters each). During the search process, references will be contacted.

• Prompt 1: Share why you are interested in serving in the position.
• Prompt 2: Give an example of a time when you resolved a complex reference question. What was the situation, what action did you take, and what was the outcome?
• Prompt 3: Describe your experience with library instruction.
• Prompt 4: How have you supported student learning?
• Prompt 5: How have you demonstrated your commitment to respect, inclusion, and belonging?
• Prompt 6: Provide an example of a time when you worked on a collaborative effort across multiple people, departments, or teams. What strategies did you use? What are some of the challenges that you faced?

Term Details & Onsite Expectations

The positions are term appointments, expected to commence in summer 2026 and continue through June 2027. Extensions beyond the initial term depend on university needs, performance, and funding availability. Regular onsite presence is expected; occasional hybrid work may be permissible with supervisor approval.

Compensation and Benefits

Full‑time employees receive a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, paid time off, and a generous tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.

EEO Statement

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process because of an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.