Research Librarian

Phillips Lytle LLP; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 54,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Research Librarian to enhance its legal research capabilities. This role involves supporting attorneys with in-depth research, managing library collections, and ensuring access to relevant resources. You will advise on research strategies, conduct training for staff, and maintain compliance with legal standards. The ideal candidate will possess a Master's degree in Library Science and have a strong background in legal research. Join a dynamic team dedicated to delivering superior outcomes and service in a collaborative environment, while continuously developing your skills and knowledge in the field.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in legal research or library role preferred.
• Master’s degree in Library Science or equivalent experience required.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal research assistance to attorneys and staff.
• Participate in procurement and organization of library collections.
• Develop research guides and train staff on effective research techniques.

Skills

Legal Research

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Education

Master’s degree in Library Science

Equivalent experience in a law firm library

Tools

Westlaw

LexisNexis

Bloomberg Law

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: BUFFALO, NY

Position Type: Administrative

Education Level: Graduate Degree

Salary Range: $54000.00 - $64000.00 Salary

Job Category: Administrative

Job Summary

The Research Librarian will support attorneys and legal staff with in-depth research, and participate in procuring, managing and optimizing our legal research resources, in a variety of formats, ensuring that our library collections are up-to-date and relevant.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal and business research assistance to attorneys and administrative staff in a timely and effective manner.
• Advise attorneys on research strategy and resource selection to ensure research is accurate and conducted in the most efficient and cost effective manner.
• Participate in the procurement, organization and maintenance of the firm’s library collection. Ensure materials are easily accessible and relevant to the firm's needs.
• Evaluate and recommend new research resources to enhance the library's collection and capabilities.
• Develop research guides and provide training to attorneys and staff on effective research techniques and the use of library resources. Offer personalized research assistance and support as needed.
• Conduct new hire on-boarding and training for attorneys, paralegals and staff.
• Ensure that research practices comply with legal and ethical standards.
• Prepare reports and summaries on research findings for internal use as requested.
• Contact courts, government offices and agencies, and other libraries or retrieval services for copies of documents, filings or books that are not available online.
• Cite-check briefs, articles, and Firm presentations for accuracy of citation format and validity of legal citations, according to Bluebook format, the New York Law Report Style Manual, Firm standards, and other guidelines as appropriate.
• Create alerts to track dockets, legislation, and other content as needed for current awareness.
• Prioritize continuous learning by seeking professional development opportunities, and stay updated on the latest research technologies and tools, including AI tools.
• Participate in the integration and implementation of new technologies to improve research processes and library operations.
• Uphold the firm’s reputation as the premier source for sophisticated legal counsel by delivering superior outcomes, service, and value to every client and matter.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent from an accredited institution or equivalent experience in a law firm library setting.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a legal research or library role, preferably in a law firm or legal setting
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong technical skills, including Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Highly responsive; exercises good judgment, excellent organizational skills; strong attention to detail; ability to prioritize workload and work well under pressure.
• Proficiency with legal research databases (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis, Bloomberg Law, VitalLaw) and other research tools.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to synthesize complex information.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proactive and resourceful with a strong commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Salary: $54,000 - $64,000 per year