UMass Lowell Part-time Reference Librarian (Weekdays), (Lowell, MA)

Posted June 16, 2024

Job no: 523661
Position type: Staff Part Time
Benefit Status: Non-Benefited – Non-Union
Campus: UMass Lowell
Department: Library
Salary: $23-$24/hour depending on education and experience

Applications Open: June 07, 2024
Applications Close: Open until filled

General Summary of Position:

The Part-Time Reference Librarian provides high-quality reference and research assistance to the University of Massachusetts Lowell community on campus (at two library locations) and online. UMass Lowell is a welcoming and diverse community, with a proven track record in providing a world-class education at an affordable price. The Part-Time Reference Librarian is a member of the growing Research & Learning team, which reports to the Associate Director for Research & Learning. The person in this position will be expected to work on campus for at least 12 hours per week. There is an opportunity for 6 additional hours, which may be worked on-campus or remotely.

Key duties may include:

1. In person hours: provide high-quality reference service at the reference desk and via other methods such as phone, chat, video consultation, or email reference. In-person hours include coverage of three reference shifts (Monday – Wednesday, 12:30-4:30pm).
2. Remote hours: Provide high-quality remote reference service via chat, email, or video consultation. 
3. As possible during all work hours, assist in other departmental special projects such as development of online teaching modules, creation of training for student workers, revision of online research guides, collection development, and outreach and communication.
4. Communicate effectively with a distributed team, often over email and Microsoft Teams, to refer and track down solutions to problems.
5. As much as possible, attend a weekly Research & Learning team meeting and contribute to: sharing knowledge about student, faculty, and staff needs; sharing knowledge about research questions and relevant resources; and departmental planning and goals.
6. Promote the University’s commitment to customer service by: building effective partnerships with co-workers throughout the University and freely sharing appropriate information and providing assistance when needed; ensuring optimum service to all internal and external partners in response to all requests for service and information; maintaining an environment that is welcoming to persons of all backgrounds, nationalities, and roles.

We welcome applications from people who embrace lifelong learning and are passionate about providing meaningful and equitable access to information, resources, and services to a diverse and engaged community.

Schedule: In-person hours include coverage of three reference shifts: Monday – Wednesday, 12:30-4:30pm. Additional remote hours during the regular business week are also possible. Total work time per week: 12-18 hours.

Minimum Qualifications (Required):

• In-progress or completed ALA Accredited Master’s degree in Library Science or Library Information Science (MLS/MLIS). If MLS/MLIS is in progress, applicants should have already completed a core reference services class.
• Knowledge of current library and information science principles and practices and knowledge of general resources, programs, and services available at an academic library
• Willingness and eagerness to learn new skills and resources
• Comfort with troubleshooting common technological issues
• Ability to project a positive public image and provide superior service to our community with excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong customer service orientation, ideally with previous experience in a busy service environment
• Ability and commitment to upholding the University’s commitment to inclusive excellence in a diverse educational community

Hourly Pay: $23-$24/hour depending on education and experience

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Initial review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. However, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applicants is received.

This is a part-time, temporary, non-unit, non-benefited position.   

Please include a resume and cover letter with your application.  Names and contact information of three references will be required during the application process.

How to Apply

Apply at UMass Lowell Part-time Reference Librarian (Weekdays)

The University of Massachusetts Lowell is committed to increasing diversity in its faculty, staff, and student populations, as well as curriculum and support programs, while promoting an inclusive environment. We seek candidates who can contribute to that goal and encourage you to apply and to identify your strengths in this area.

The University of Massachusetts Lowell is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action, Title IX employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age over 40, protected veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, marital status, or other protected class.