Reference Librarian

About the Opportunity

About F. W. Olin Library

F. W. Olin Library at the Northeastern Oakland campus seeks a public service-oriented librarian to join the reference and instruction team as a Reference Librarian.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Head of Reference and Access Services, the Reference Librarian staffs the Reference Desk, plans and teaches information literacy sessions, acts as a liaison to academic departments, and participates in library outreach initiatives.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

Reference Services (40%)

• Manage reference activities, including staffing the Reference Desk.
• Guide students, faculty, and staff in the use of the library’s physical and electronic collections.
• Meet with students and faculty individually or in groups for research appointments and assignment planning.

Information Literacy (25%)

• Create and maintain LibGuides.
• Lead information literacy instruction sessions.
• Demonstrate effective use of the library’s physical and electronic collections.
• Teach research strategies and ethical research concepts based on the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Information Literacy Framework.
• Apply critical librarianship and pedagogy principles in instructional activities.

Collection Development (15%)

• Select and deselect library resources within assigned subject areas to support campus curriculum and faculty research.
• Create thematic displays.
• Develop “Olin Recommends” booktalkers and booklists.

Outreach (10%)

• Support library programming.
• Staff campus events and create handouts and mini-collections for activities such as Staff Wellness Fairs and First-Year Orientation.
• Serve as a liaison to academic departments and student groups.
• Administer library social media platforms and create related content.

General Public Services (10%)

• Oversee the Circulation Desk as needed.
• Search for missing books.
• Collect fines and fees.
• Resolve patron issues.
• Provide computer and technology support.
• Create signage and other public service materials.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with course reserves and interlibrary loan activities as needed.
• Record and maintain library usage and service statistics, including head counts, reference transactions, information literacy sessions, and student interactions.
• Serve on campus and professional committees and collaborate with other campus departments.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to remain informed about emerging trends, technologies, and innovations in librarianship.

Minimum Qualifications

Required

• Master’s degree in librarianship from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited institution.
• One to two years of professional experience, preferably in an academic library.
• Effective teaching skills in both group and individual settings.
• Demonstrated experience using databases, electronic resources, online catalogs, web-based resources, and print resources.
• Enthusiasm for and commitment to library public services.
• Working knowledge of hardware and software commonly used in libraries, including personal computers, Apple products, and printers.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies and instructional methodologies.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to provide and follow clear instructions and communicate effectively with library users and students.
• Strong planning, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to contribute to a positive work culture that supports customer service and teamwork.
• Demonstrated commitment to serving and supporting the student population and learning about the communities and backgrounds represented on campus.

Preferred

• Familiarity with an integrated library system (ILS); Ex Libris Alma preferred.

Physical, Mental and Environmental Demands

• Ability to work one weeknight evening per week and occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
• Ability to work extensively at a computer screen.
• Ability to lift 10 pounds overhead and push up to 50 pounds on a book truck.

Required Documents

• Resume

Position Type

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Base Pay Rate: