Brief Job Description:

Participates in access, reference, and outreach related to special collections and archival material held by the Boston Public Library across all formats. Assists with efforts to use and promote collections in accordance with established standards and best practices at an appropriate level of detail and effort. Collaborates with other BPL staff on the development and use of tools and workflows to support outreach, reference, and access.

Reports to:

Special Collections Reference Librarian

• Provides reference services in support of research and special collections to the public in a variety of methods (in person, telephone, online, e-mail) by responding to requests for information and answering such requests by using informational resources in all formats.
• Assists patrons in the use of the library’s resources through personal consultation, instruction, programs, online content and other means.
• Promotes the use of special collections through active participation in programs, exhibitions, tours, presentations, classes, and other similar outreach activities. Under the direction of the Special Collections Public Services Supervisor or delegate, organize and lead outreach activities as assigned.
• Promotes the use of resources and collections by developing reference and promotional materials for special collections, including resource guides, web content, blog posts, social media, flyers, and book lists.
• Alternates with other staff members in supervising a public reading room in such a way as to maintain an atmosphere conducive to research while responsibly preserving and protecting materials.
• Assists with assessment of special collections public services, classes, and programs and recommends improvements.
• Assists in the training of staff and in the orientation of both staff and members of the public to the services of the team.
• Keeps current in the best practices of the profession by taking advantage of training and development activities, reading professional literature, and participating in professional activities.
• Represents library at local and national conferences as assigned.
• Performs other related and comparable duties as assigned.

• Education – Bachelor's degree from a recognized college or university and a master's degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited library school. In exceptional instances, specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the educational requirements.
• Experience – Some appropriate special collections experience or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training sufficient to indicate ability to do the work.
• Communicates effectively and presents ideas clearly. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to think creatively and innovatively.
• Ability to work well with staff and the public.
• Knowledge of best practices in handling and access to special collections materials.
• Knowledge of best practices in teaching with primary source materials.
• Identifies, plans, and prioritizes job responsibilities and tasks; determines and implements project timelines.
• Demonstrates initiative and appropriate independent decision-making skills.
• Demonstrates flexibility and the ability to adapt to change.
• Collaborates with internal and external partners.
• Superior knowledge of research strategies and engagement with primary sources.
• Ability to execute library policy.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Requirements – Some evening and weekend hours. Ability to travel to off-site locations as assigned.
• CORI – Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information check with the City of Boston.

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA /P-1

Hours per week: 35