[CLOSED] Part Time Reference Assistant, Northeastern University, Boston, MA (Virtual or In Person)
Posted September 2, 2021
Description:
The Northeastern University Library welcomes applications for part-time virtual and in-person reference
services. We seek candidates interested in providing friendly and welcoming customer service assisting
Northeastern students, faculty, and staff with research and library use questions.
In-person reference staff handle walk-in and telephone inquiries in Snell Library, including working with
the Help and Information desk staff to triage queries. In-person desk shifts are 11-3, Monday through
Friday.
Virtual staff work remotely to handle reference inquiries by live chat, zoom, and email, using our
LibAnswers system. Virtual reference shifts are 2 or 3 hours per day, between 10am and 9pm Monday
through Thursday, and Fridays 10-6.Applicants may apply for either or both types of shifts.
This is an exciting opportunity to gain experience working with a diverse and international student body
at a growing Research 1 institution. Northeastern researchers bring a range of questions, from novice
searching and use questions, to complex inquiries in a variety of fields, including STEM, data and digital
humanities, and business/entrepreneurship, requiring skillful navigation of information resources and
library tools/services.
Responsibilities:
· Welcome all questions, conduct reference interviews to ascertain the patron’s need and provide
prompt, accurate replies with excellent customer service
· Offer guidance on basic library use, resource selection, and interpreting search results
· Teach basic search strategies and information evaluation
· Explain relevant library services and policies
· Advise students on tools and documentation for academic citation
The successful candidate will:
· enjoy interacting with patrons
· be familiar with bibliographic and library catalog information
· be able to explain principles and techniques of searching and the research process
· participate in continuous development of reference skills through ongoing training.
Qualifications:
Applicants should be enrolled in an MLS program or have received their MLS from an ALA-accredited
program, and have experience providing reference services in an academic, health, special, or other
research library. Ability to work at least 8 hours a week in 2-4 hour shifts is required.
Preferred qualifications:
Comfortable working with researchers in business/entrepreneurship, and STEM
fields. Experience with database searching in EbscoHost, Proquest, and Gale. Experience providing chat
support. Familiar with SpringShare LibAnswers and LibChat software. For virtual shifts, access to reliable
technology, internet service, and distraction-free workspace.
Part-time: 8-20 hours/week
Pay: $20.00/hour
How to apply:
To apply, please send a resume/curriculum vitae along with a 2-300 word note explaining your
interest and qualifications, and your availability for in-person or virtual shifts, to G. Karen
Merguerian at [email protected]