Reference and Instruction Librarian

Clay Today; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Comprehensive benefits

Generous paid time off

Retirement plans

Job summary

Penn State Libraries seeks two Reference and Instruction Librarians for term appointments at Brandywine Campus Library and University Park Life Sciences Library. Entry-level or early career librarians are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities include reference and research consultation, instruction, and student outreach within STEM and campus contexts. Onsite presence is expected with possible occasional hybrid work.

Qualifications

• MLS degree from an ALA-accredited program or equivalent/advanced degree in relevant disciplines.
• Commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

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 guides and tutorials.
• Provide reference assistance and research consultations both face-to-face and online.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Equity & Inclusion

Education

MLS degree (ALA-accredited)

Job description

Reference and Instruction Librarian

The Pennsylvania State University Libraries is seeking two term librarians for non-tenure-line faculty positions; one located at the Brandywine Campus Library and one located in the Life Sciences Library on the University Park campus. Entry-level or early career librarians are encouraged to apply.

The Reference and Instruction Librarian at the Brandywine Library will provide reference services, teach instruction, and support student engagement and outreach. In collaboration with the Brandywine library team, this position serves 12 majors, about 1000 students, staff, faculty, and the greater Philadelphia area community.

The Life Sciences Librarian at University Park will join the STEM libraries department team in providing research consultations, contributing to a program of instruction, and collaborating on student outreach. The Life Sciences Librarian will primarily support students and faculty in the College of Agricultural Sciences across several departments.

Essential Functions and 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, both face-to-face and online.

Qualifications

Required:

• An MLS degree from an ALA-accredited program (or equivalent/advanced degree in relevant academic disciplines).
• 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.

Onsite Expectations

The University expects regular onsite presence to fully participate in their university workspace or on-campus intellectual and educational community. Occasional hybrid work may be permissible upon approval of the supervisor.

Non-tenure line faculty positions

These are term positions; successful candidates are anticipated to be appointed through June 30, 2027. Continuation past the initial term length will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Assistant Librarian

Candidates for the rank of Assistant Librarian should possess a graduate degree in library or information studies or other appropriate degree; must have demonstrated potential ability as a librarian; and must have shown promise of growth in professional engagement and service.

Compensation

Individual compensation packages are based on various factors unique to each candidate, including a candidate's qualifications, education, experience, and rank. In addition to a competitive salary, full-time employees also receive a comprehensive benefits program, generous paid time off, and tuition discount for employees and eligible family members. Total Compensation Calculator provides an estimated summary of the value of compensation and benefits.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and paid time off. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to eligible employees and their dependents.

Hiring Considerations

The anticipated start date would be summer 2026 and continue through June 2027. The effective start date may be adjusted to accommodate the needs of another campus if the selected candidate is from a Penn State campus that is closing.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

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 due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

Campus Security Crime Statistics

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.