Special Collections Reference Librarian, Boston Public Library, Boston, MA

Posted January 8, 2025

Description

Boston Public Library is seeking a Special Collections Reference Librarian. This entry level position in the Research Services Department will actively facilitate engagement with the BPL’s special collections, which include extensive holdings of rare books, photographs, prints and drawings, music, fine arts and archival collections. As a public library, the BPL is committed to fostering a welcoming atmosphere for researchers of all ages and educational backgrounds and to encouraging creative use of collections for study and enjoyment.

Reference and Access

The Special Collections Reference Librarian will have a key role in the Special Collections Reading Room, serving regular shifts and working with the Special Collections Public Services Supervisor on the day-to-day running of our public service points. They will also actively participate in reference services for Special Collections and for the BPL as a member of the Research Services team.

Instruction, Outreach and Programs

Boston Public Library actively seeks to broaden engagement with our collections through innovative outreach and programs. In 2024, over 2500 visitors attended a program, tour, or class with Special Collections staff.  This position will play a key role in running classes and programs, assessing outreach efforts, and recommending improvements to public services.  

Department and Organization

The Special Collections Reference Librarian will work with the Special Collections Public Services Supervisor and collaborate closely with staff across Special Collections to provide access to and engagement with special collections. As a member of the larger Research Services department, they will collaborate with colleagues to provide holistic services to the library’s extensive research and special collections.

Qualifications and Experience

This is an entry-level position. We encourage applications from candidates who have knowledge of special collections access and teaching with primary sources through classwork, internships or other professional experience.

The successful candidate will not be expected to come to this position with extensive experience in all areas of this position. Applicants should demonstrate the ability to work with members of the public, actively collaborate with colleagues, and a strong commitment towards equitable access and services.

About the BPL’s research and special collections: 

Collected since the library’s founding in 1848, the research and special collections represent the BPL’s ongoing commitment to providing free and open access to specialized materials primarily held by private or academic libraries. As a founding member of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), the Boston Public Library is one of only two public libraries to hold this distinction. 

 The library’s exceptional special collections include rare books, artwork, manuscripts, archives, photographs, music, maps, and sculpture. The research collections total more than 16 million items and include monographs, serials, periodicals, pamphlets, journals, illustrated portfolios, newspapers, maps, government documents, audiovisual materials, and microfilm, among other formats. All of these collections represent materials deemed to be of enduring value to researchers and the general public. 

Boston Public Library is committed to racial equity and to becoming an anti-racist organization and formed an action plan in 2020 in response to systemic racism, inequity, and injustice prevalent in our society. You can read more about the action plan and the steps BPL is taking to address diversity, equity, and inclusion here.

Residency requirement

Please note that the city of Boston residency requirement applies to this position, which means that the successful candidate must be a resident of the city of Boston on or before the date of hire.

Salary and benefits

• This position is graded as a P1. The current salary range is $60,523- $78,750.
• The position is part of the Boston Public Library Professional Staffing Association (PSA)
• PSA members receive 20 days of vacation per year, 3 personal days, and 2 swing days. All members are eligible for 3 months of paid parental leave and up to one year of unpaid leave
• All staff pay into a pension program. More info can be found here: https://www.boston.gov/departments/retirement/how-boston-retirement-system-works.
• Additional benefits info can be found here: https://www.boston.gov/departments/human-resources/benefits-available-city-workers
• Special Collections has a particular commitment to growing the skills of our unit and has funding to draw on for training and conferences, both through the library and affiliate donors.

How to Apply:

For further information and to apply to this position, please visit the City of Boston employment website. Please combine your cover letter and resume in a single PDF file and attach them together in the resume upload section of the website.

Application review is rolling. Applicants are encouraged to apply by Jan 17, 2025 to be included in the initial review.