Head of Research Services, Schlesinger Library, Harvard Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University

Posted June 18, 2024

Job Summary

The Schlesinger Library seeks a user-centered, service-oriented, and collaborative librarian committed to inclusiveness and access to lead our Research Services unit. Reporting to the Associate Director of the Schlesinger Library and as part of the library’s senior management team, this position contributes to library-wide strategic and operation planning. The incumbent will represent the Library on University-wide committees and other projects that promote the innovative use of the Library’s collections in research, teaching, and learning.

The Head of Research Services provides leadership and expertise in the development and implementation of programs and services to meet the research and learning needs of the Library’s users. They manage the Library’s service points, including reference and reading room operations, remote and in-person reference, and patron scanning services.

Position Description

Leads and manages the Research Services by developing and articulating strategic vision and direction, overseeing day-to-day operations and special projects, establishing priorities, and coordinating work within the department and with other library units.
Fosters a positive, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all Library users and ensures that users receive welcoming and efficient service.
Manages the operations of the Library’s service points, onsite and remote reference, circulation, and patron scanning services.
Coordinates and schedules reference desk coverage; covers regular shifts at the Schlesinger Library reference desk.
Collaborates with the Head of Education and Outreach and contributes to the Library’s growing instruction program and outreach initiatives.
Ensures collection care by developing, implementing, and overseeing policies and procedures that govern the use of special collections while also creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Understands copyright and intellectual property issues relating to archives and special collections and answers complex reference questions regarding collection access, permissions, and copyright.
Compiles and analyzes data and statistics that contribute to our understanding of trends in research use of the collection and our ability to plan and implement changes to our services and programs wisely.
Leads the development or enhancement of workflows and information tools to support the unit’s research and reference activities.
Collaborates with library managers on long-range planning, annual goal setting, policy and procedure development, staffing and budget decisions, facilities planning, and daily administration.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Supervises Research Services staff.
Carries out supervisory responsibilities according to the Institute’s / University’s management policies, procedures, and any applicable laws.
Responsibilities include hiring and training, planning and assigning work, conducting performance appraisals, addressing performance issues, and resolving problems.

How to Apply

For more information and to apply, please go to the following: https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=25240&siteid=5341&Areq=64555BR#jobDetails=1999765_5341