Reference Librarian (PT) at Mercy University

METRO | 599; New York (NY); On-site; USD 28,000 - 50,000; Part time

Job summary

A university library seeks a part-time reference librarian to enhance the educational experience of patrons. The role involves assisting patrons at the reference desk and teaching information literacy skills. Key responsibilities include searching for information, evaluating resources, and organizing collections. Candidates must have a Master's degree in library science and demonstrate strong communication and customer service skills. Flexibility for nights and weekends is required, making this position ideal for those passionate about supporting academic success.

Qualifications

• Flexible schedule to accommodate staffing needs including evenings and weekends.
• Comfortable with basic instructional technology and software.
• Demonstrated evidence of detail-orientation and customer service orientation.
• Must have strong oral/written communication skills.
• Must have strong customer service orientation.

Responsibilities

• Search standard reference materials to answer patrons’ reference questions.
• Teach library patrons to search for information using databases.
• Assist patrons with operational technology issues in the library.
• As needed, assistance at the circulation desk and with AV equipment circulation and maintenance.
• Assist patrons with operational technology issues in the library, including using computers, printers, laptops, software, and other devices.
• Explain how to use library facilities, resources, equipment, and services and provide information about library policies.
• Review and evaluate resource material to assist in selecting and ordering print, audiovisual, and electronic resources.
• Organize collections of books, publications, documents, and other reference materials for convenient access.
• Evaluate materials to determine outdated or unused items to be discarded.
• Develop information access aids such as libguides and online tutorials.
• Plan and deliver client-centered programs and services.
• Assemble and arrange display materials.
• Opens or closes the library if scheduled.
• Perform other duties/projects as assigned.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Customer service orientation

Strong oral/written communication skills

Basic instructional technology

Education

Master’s degree in information and/or library science

Job description

Mercy University Libraries is seeking a part-time reference librarian. Reporting to the Head Librarian, the position plays a key role in educating our patrons on the use of all library and web services and in developing student research skills for academic success and life-long learning. Prime candidates will be passionate about information literacy and have the desire and demonstrated ability to work with and teach a diverse student population on how to utilize online and print resources for educational purposes in both reference desk and classroom settings. A collaborative, entrepreneurial mindset, team orientation, and flexible schedule are essential, with availability on nights and weekends, if needed. Master’s degree in information and/or library science from an ALA-accredited school or an ALA- approved equivalent.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities:

• Search standard reference materials, including online sources and the Internet, to answer patrons’ reference questions
• Analyze patrons’ requests to determine needed information and assist in locating that information.
• Teach library patrons to search for information using databases
• As needed, assistance at the circulation desk, including checking in and out of library materials, and assistance with AV equipment circulation and maintenance
• Assist patrons with operational technology issues in the library, including using computers, printers, laptops, software, and other devices
• Explain how to use library facilities, resources, equipment, and services and provide information about library policies
• Review and evaluate resource material, such as book reviews and catalogs, to assist the Head librarian in selecting and ordering print, audiovisual, and electronic resources
• Organize collections of books, publications, documents, and other reference materials for convenient access
• Evaluate materials to determine outdated or unused items to be discarded
• Develop information access aids such as libguides and online tutorials
• Plan and deliver client-centered programs and services
• Assemble and arrange display materials
• Opens or closes the library if scheduled
• Perform other duties/projects as assigned

Required Skills & Experience

• Must have a flexible schedule to accommodate staffing needs including evenings and weekends
• Demonstrated evidence of detail-orientation, customer service orientation, ability to work independently.
• Must be comfortable with basic instructional technology and software
• Must have strong oral/written communication skills
• Must have strong customer service orientation

Education Requirements:

• Master’s degree in information and/or library science from an ALA-accredited school or an ALA- approved equivalent

Physical/Other Requirements:

• Must be able to travel to and work at other campus libraries as needed
• Must be able to push, pull, move or lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to meet all general health requirements for the position as per college policies