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Librarian for Undergraduate Support, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA

Posted March 30, 2019

The Librarian for Undergraduate Support (LUS) coordinates two programs: the First-Year student Librarian (FYL) program and the Peer Research Fellows (PRF) program. The FYL program connects librarians directly with incoming first-year students to serve as a friendly, welcoming first point of contact. This is a new venture, to build on a successful 2018 pilot. The PRF program trains and supports undergraduates (years 2 to 4) who live in the residential houses and provide direct support to their peers. This program is well established, and is in the process of expansion.

 

The LUS will join the Services for Academic Programs (SAP) department, reporting to the Head of Liaison and Orientation Services. (Details are at http://sap.library.harvard.edu) SAP includes close to 20 staff members and provides several services for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS), the largest division of Harvard University. Relevant services include departmental academic support, structured instruction, walk-in and appointment-based assistance, orientations, tours, and online resources.

 

In addition to these two direct responsibilities, the LUS contributes to the overall functions of the Services for Academic Programs department by taking on instruction, liaison and virtual reference duties. The LUS works closely with campus support providers on undergraduate support, and coordinates with library colleagues to maintain a coherent support network.

 

Typical duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • The LUS recruits, selects, and directly supervises the PRFs (up to twelve undergraduate students), and leads a group of four to six mentor librarians who train and support the PRFs. The LUS provides direction and coordination for program activities and handles outreach, assessment, and reporting. In collaboration with mentor librarians, the LUS periodically updates the training curriculum and consults with House Resident Deans and administrative staff.

 

  • The LUS selects, supports and convenes the network of FYLs (up to 50 librarians from across Harvard Library) who each take on a small cohort of first-year students. The LUS manages the selection process each spring, conducts summer training for the FYLs and brings the FYLs together for meetings during the school year. The LUS provides leadership and support for the program, staying connected with the FYLs and helping manage regular outreach to the first-year students.

 

  • The LUS participates actively in the programs and activities of the Services for Academic Programs department, taking on instruction and virtual reference responsibilities as assigned. The LUS plays a key role in the diversity and inclusion goals of Harvard Library.

 

  • Serve as library liaison to a small set of departments and programs as assigned. Provide course-related instruction, small-group assistance, one-to-one research consultations, tours, orientations and online support materials. Integrate into the academic life of the departments and programs, finding creative ways to address needs and connect back with library priorities and initiatives. Actively seek to integrate research literacy into curricula.
  • May supervise student employees (undergraduate and graduate students)

Basic Qualifications

  • MLS from an ALA accredited graduate program, Masters in higher education, Masters in Instructional Technology or Masters in Learning Design required
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in an academic library setting
  • Experience working directly with undergraduate students

 

Additional Qualifications

  • Additional subject Master’s degree preferred.
  • Experience managing events and programs for undergraduate students.
  • Strong verbal, listening, writing and interpersonal skills.
  • Experience working in a large research library environment
  • Strong program management skills with attention to detail
  • Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, connecting with peers to build momentum for new initiatives
  • Ability to work with competing demands in a complex environment
  • A commitment to diversity and to serving the needs of a diverse population.

  

There are no notable physical demands associated with this position. To view the full position and apply, please follow this link. 

 

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

 

  

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