Reference Librarian

Howard University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 48,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness

Work-Life Balance

Financial Wellness

Professional Development

Additional Perks

Job summary

Howard University is seeking a qualified librarian or information specialist to assist students, faculty, and staff with information retrieval and research across print and digital resources. The role includes reference assistance, catalog searching, and supporting instructional sessions.

Responsibilities also cover collection development support, data-driven decision making, and collaboration with senior librarians to enhance scholarly services on campus.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in library science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an accredited institution.
• Knowledge of library services and management.

Responsibilities

• Assist students, faculty, and staff with finding information, utilizing print and electronic resources, and conducting research.
• Help search library catalogs, academic databases, and other online resources.
• Answer reference questions and escalate complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed.
• Develop faculty research support skills.
• Prepare and deliver instructional sessions and orientations on using library resources.
• Assist in developing instructional materials and guides for students and faculty.
• Provide one-on-one research assistance during scheduled hours or by appointment.
• Assist in evaluating, selecting, and maintaining library materials for specific subject areas or collections.
• Analyze usage statistics to inform decisions and participate in weeding and acquisitions.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Customer service

Independent work

Collaborative teamwork

Education

MLS/MLIS

Tools

Library catalogs

Databases

Digital tools

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. Here is what we offer:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY: Responsible for orienting and training student assistants and reviewing their work.

NATURE AND SCOPE: Internal contacts include students, staff, faculty, and administrators. External contacts include vendors, local firms, agencies and external libraries, consortium students, visiting scholars, and the public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Research Assistance:
  • Assist students, faculty, and staff with finding information, utilizing print and electronic resources, and conducting research.
  • Provide help with searching library catalogs, academic databases, and other online resources.
  • Answer basic reference questions and elevate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed.
  • Develop faculty research support skills.
• Library Instruction and Information Literacy:
  • Help prepare and deliver instructional sessions, workshops, and orientations on how to use library resources and research tools.
  • Assist with developing and updating instructional materials and guides for students and faculty.
  • Provide one-on-one research assistance during scheduled hours or by appointment.
• Collection Development Support:
  • Assist in evaluating, selecting, and maintaining library materials for specific subject areas or collections.
  • Analyze usage statistics to make data-informed decisions.
  • Participate in weeding outdated or unused materials and recommending new acquisitions based on user needs and academic requirements.
• Technology Support and Professional Development:
  • Assist users with accessing electronic resources, including e-books, databases, and journals.
  • Support the library’s online presence by helping manage the library’s website, social media, or digital collections.
  • Familiarity with library management systems and cataloging software.
  • Develop proficiency in creating and teaching with LibGuides
  • Develop proficiency in Canvas (the campus learning management system (LMS)
  • Complete a certification in usability testing, Creative Commons, and/or Tableau
  • Complete the Google Certified Educator Level 2
• Professional Development:
  • Participate in workshops, seminars, and professional development opportunities to improve knowledge and skills in academic librarianship.
  • Participate in a Washington Research Library Consortium (WRLC) Committee
  • Develop a subject expertise area.
  • Collaborate with senior librarian staff on library projects and initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• A customer service-oriented approach with the ability to interact professionally with a diverse range of library users.
• Basic knowledge of library catalogs, databases, and digital tools.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Flexibility and eagerness to learn and grow in the library profession.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Master’s degree in library science (MLS), Library and Information Science (MLIS), or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Knowledge of library services and management.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

$48,000-$58,000