Reference Services Librarian at Center for Jewish History

METRO | 599; New York (NY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Center for Jewish History seeks a Reference Services Librarian to oversee daily operations, assist researchers, and manage reference services. This full-time position requires an MLIS/MA degree and strong interpersonal skills. The ideal candidate will be dedicated to expanding knowledge and promoting primary source literacy.

Qualifications

• MLIS/MA degree required with specialization in archives or rare books.
• Demonstrated experience in reference and research assistance.
• Ability to work well with a diverse patronage.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of reference services in the Aeon system.
• Provide research assistance and conduct outreach activities.
• Promote collections through social media and workshops.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Reference work

Knowledge of Jewish history

Public service experience

Education

MLIS/MA degree from an ALA-accredited program

Job description

The Center for Jewish History seeks a diligent, practical individual to become our Reference Services Librarian, under the supervision of the Senior Reference Services Librarian, works closely with other members of the CJH Public Services staff and Partner organizations to coordinate the use of Center resources and collections. This individual is part of the team overseeing the day-to-day operation of the Reading Room and assisting researchers both on-site and remotely. The Reference Services Librarian provides bibliographic instruction to patrons and staff, demonstrates proper handling of rare books and documents, explains Reading Room policies and procedures, and collaborates with other CJH departments and partner organizations on special projects to advance institutional and departmental goals. This is a full-time position requiring at least 4 days per week on-site.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to

• Act as an exemplary emissary for the Center for Jewish History in interactions with patrons of all levels of expertise.
• Managing all aspects of reference services in the Aeon system, the shared online catalog, and ArchivesSpace to ensure that patrons receive their material in a timely fashion.
• Providing reference and research assistance in the Reading Room and remote reference interviews, phone, and email (current Reading Room hours: Monday-Thursday between 9:30am-4:30pm)
• Continually expanding knowledge of collections and relevant history to better assist patrons, staff, and the broader Center community; developing and updating online research guides.
• Promote the collections through blogs, social media and small exhibitions (e.g. curating pop-up exhibitions), online tutorials and workshops, promoting primary source literacy
• Participate in outreach activities such as class instructions, group presentations and tours, in-person and online tutorials and workshops for visiting students, and promoting primary source literacy
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Hebrew and/or Yiddish.
• Knowledge of Jewish history.

Qualifications

• MLIS/MA degree from an ALA-accredited program with a specialization in archives or rare books OR equivalent combination of education and work in archives or manuscripts environment.
• Demonstrated experience using print resources, online catalogs, electronic databases, and internet sources in reference work
• Successfully demonstrated public service experience with the ability to work well with a diverse patronage
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a collaborative setting.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience implementing standards and procedures for stewardship of materials in an archives or special collections setting.

The Center for Jewish History is committed to diversity and inclusion. Qualified individuals who bring diverse perspectives to the workplace are especially encouraged to apply.

The Center for Jewish History is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Please submit your resume and cover letter [e-mail] . Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. No phone calls please.