Library Assistant, Harvard Divinity School, Cambridge, MA
Posted March 28, 2022
Description:
Reporting to the Associate Librarian for Research Services, the Research Services Assistant performs duties of an advanced nature within Research Services to provide patron access to special collections, maintain a welcoming and secure reading room, and assist with other work of the Research Services unit. This is a fully on-campus position.
Responsibilities
- Provides excellent service, friendly reception, and positive interactions with researchers of all backgrounds and levels of experience
- Uses the library’s system for registering secure reading room visitors (Aeon) to track their requests and monitor their use of materials from special collections
- Works with colleagues to ensure that requested collection material is on site and ready for use when researchers arrive
- Sets and maintains schedules for reading room coverage; schedules back up coverage
- Assists in closely reading documents to find biographical and historical information for remote users
- Scans library materials for remote researchers
- Monitors the safety and security of collections while in use
- Assists researchers who use reading room technology, such as the wireless network and self-service scanners
- Helps patrons locate library and Harvard University services and spaces upon request
- Assists with the collection of reading room statistics
- Assists with the collection and analysis of user experience data
- Assists with the creation of content and the management of the library’s social media accounts, website, and research guides
- Assists with promoting and administering the library exhibits program
- Performs other related responsibilities as assigned
Qualifications:
- Four or more years of related experience. Education beyond high school may count towards experience.
- Ability to read and decipher historic printed and handwritten documents and ability to assist patrons to find and use them
- Proficiency in the use of standard productivity software (Microsoft Office and Adobe)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Familiarity with a digital/online environment and ability to use and learn library-specific software applications
- Training relevant to job duties preferred.
- Excellent interpersonal, and strong written and communications skills
- Previous work experience in a library, archive, or similar enterprise; experience working with archives or access services a plus
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proactive approach to problem-solving
- Experience with the collection of user experience data
- Experience with the creation or editing of content or graphics for websites and/or social media in a business environment
- Commitment to communication, collaboration, and professional growth.
- Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism
How to Apply:
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