Library Assistant I – Reproductions, Massachusetts Historical Society, (Boston, MA)
Posted August 9, 2023
Purpose: The Library Assistant I – Reproductions (LAI-R)) provides direct service to
researchers seeking access to MHS collections ensuring both access to and the security of the
library’s holdings. The LAI-R achieves this primarily through creating reference quality
reproductions of collection materials and staffing the circulation desk. The position is essential in
promoting the Society’s public image and in maintaining the security of the building and
collections.
Reporting Relationships: This position reports to the Assistant Reference Librarian – Rights
and Reproductions (RRL)
Supervisory Responsibility: None
Schedule: This is a part-time position, up to 21 hours per week, during regularly scheduled
library hours, which include Saturdays and Tuesday evenings. Individual schedules are
determined by the RRL and Director of the Library with input from the staff member. Schedules
are re-evaluated at regular intervals (typically September, January, and June) and may be
adjusted to suit the needs of the department and the LAI. As a collections-based role, this
position does not allow for a remote or hybrid work schedule.
Major Responsibilities:
- Provides all researchers, on site or remote, courteous, equitable, and effective service.
- Supports the work of the RRL by photographing, scanning, or photocopying collection
materials toward fulfillment of reference reproduction requests - Fulfills complimentary reference reproduction orders as directed by the RRL
- Responds to image related reference inquires in person, on the telephone, and via email or
chat through the LibAnswers software suite; refers non-routine inquiries to RRL - Retrieves, circulates, and reshelves materials including both properly routing items through
the Aeon system and ensuring secure, timely movement of items through the library/building - Covers the circulation desk, ensuring preservation and security of collection materials used in
the reading room through direct supervision of all individuals in the reading room and
explaining, demonstrating, and enforcing library policies and procedures as needed - Completes opening and closing routines in the morning and/or evening to prepare for
researchers and ensure overnight security of library spaces. - Explains and enforces library policies and procedures
- Serves as a role model and instructor on copy stands and circulation/back-up desks to assist
in the training of newly hired staff - Assists with other library projects and routine clerical tasks as needed
- Assists in breaking down library technology and workstations and moving furniture within
the library spaces to support extra-departmental use of the space - Regularly handles large and/or heavy loads up to 50 pounds, with frequent lifting, bending,
carrying, walking, pushing and pulling throughout the workday.
Requirements:
Education
- Bachelor’s degree or current enrollment in a Bachelor’s program required
- Current enrollment in a Master’s degree program, with coursework in American history,
public history, archives, library science, or a similar program, preferred
Experience - Experience working with a diverse public in a customer service or similar position
- Experience working with archival collections and/or rare book in library, archives, or public
history setting preferred - Experience working with Aeon or similar special collections circulation system preferred
- Experience working with user interface of Voyager or similar ILS preferred
Skills
- Ability to clearly and effectively communicate, orally and in writing, with staff and members
of the public - Ability to work with staff and members of the public with tact, patience
- Ability to assess and anticipate needs and be a flexible problem solver
- Ability to consistently enforce policies and procedures
- Ability to work on repetitive tasks
- Ability to follow specific guidelines and instructions
- Ability to independently prioritize tasks, manage shifts in focus, and meet deadlines
- Ability to confidently work with technology including ability to learn new programs and
basic troubleshooting of desktop operations - Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
- Ability to comply with all MHS policies and procedures, including emergency, health, and
safety protocols - Ability to read 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century handwritten manuscripts, preferred
How to Apply
Application Procedure: Please send by email a single PDF that includes a cover letter, résumé,
and the names of three professional references to Hannah Elder, Assistant Reference Librarian –
Rights and Reproductions. Applications that do not comply with this process cannot be
considered.
Applications received by August 28, 2023 will be given preference; position open until filled
Compensation and Benefits: The payrate for this position is $18.00/hour. Benefits include paid
sick time, paid holidays, a public transit subsidy, and the opportunity to participate in the MHS
retirement plan, and Reciprocal entrance to local education and cultural institutions.
Pre-Hire Requirements: MHS requires proof of a vaccination and up-to-date boosters for
COVID-19 for all employees. As part of its offer process, MHS will conduct a reference and
criminal background check for any finalist. We are not able to sponsor visas.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
The Massachusetts Historical Society aims to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all
job levels, of the citizens we serve. Candidates of all backgrounds are welcomed and encouraged
to apply. We are committed to creating a work place free from harassment and discrimination on
the basis of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, gender identity and expression, national or
ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, military or
veteran status, or any other category protected by law (also known as membership in a “protected
class”). Candidates in need of accommodation in the application process should reach out to our
human resources department with inquiries.
Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and
responsibilities to this job at any time.