Research Librarian, Schlesinger Library on the History of Women in America, Cambridge, MA

Posted January 22, 2016

About the Position

The Schlesinger Library on the History of Women in America seeks a dynamic and team-oriented Research Librarian to support its research, teaching, and learning initiatives and to manage the operations of the Carol K. Pforzheimer Reading Room. With the finest collection of resources for research on the history of women in America, the library’s holdings are strong in: women’s rights and feminism, health and sexuality, work and family life, education and the professions, and culinary history and etiquette. Please note that the schedule for this position is Tuesday through Saturday.

Responsibilities of the position include:

• The management of the Carol K. Pforzheimer Reading Room. This includes managing the circulation and security of library collections and develops policies, procedures and systems to improve access services.
• Participates in direct and virtual research services including regular reference desk shifts. Provides in-depth research consultations and interprets and resolves complex reference questions. Develops in-depth knowledge of the library’s collections and subject expertise in women’s history, gender studies, and culinary history.
• Oversees library operations on Saturdays.
• Participates in the library’s teaching program. Supports and promotes the use of the Schlesinger’s collections in University-wide teaching and learning initiatives and works with faculty to develop course-specific instruction programs. Takes part in all library outreach efforts, including tours and presentations, exhibits, social media initiatives, as well as other public programming and events.
• Contributes to the development of e-learning tools and creates instructional content for a variety of contexts, including LibGuides, the library’s web page and social media platforms.

The successful candidate will possess:

• MLS degree from an ALA accredited graduate program.
• Four or more years of professional reference or research services experience in a special collections or archives.
• Capacity to thrive as a highly collaborative team member in a future-focused environment.
• Evidence of excellent communication, public speaking, writing and analytical skills.
• Library instruction or other teaching experience.
• Experience hiring and supervising student and temporary employees.
• Demonstrated proficiency and capability with information technology systems in the context of a special collections library.
• Ability to communicate well with faculty, staff and users at all levels and from diverse backgrounds.
• Knowledge of current research practices and experience in the effective applications of technology in research and education.
• Subject expertise in one the following areas: Women’s History, Gender Studies, or American History/Studies.

About the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study

The Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University is dedicated to creating and sharing transformative ideas across the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The Fellowship Program annually supports the work of 50 leading artists and scholars. Academic Ventures fosters collaborative research projects and sponsors lectures and conferences that engage scholars with the public. The Schlesinger Library documents the lives of American women of the past and present for the future, furthering the Institute’s commitment to women, gender, and society.

We are proud to be an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, and are committed to achieving our goals through the efforts of a highly skilled, diverse workforce.  With outstanding benefits, competitive pay, extensive learning opportunities, and a stimulating and attractive work environment, the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University may be exactly the employer you have been looking for.

Learn more about the people and programs of the Radcliffe Institute at www.radcliffe.harvard.edu.

How to apply

Interested applicants must apply for the Research Librarian position through ASPIRE, Harvard University’s online employment application system.  Please combine your cover letter and resume into a single document that is uploaded where you are instructed by to “Upload my resume/CV from my computer.” Please note that cover letters are required for every position at the Radcliffe Institute. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt.