Special Collections Public Services Assistant (Part-Time), Harvard University – Graduate School of Design, (Cambridge, MA)

Posted December 16, 2025

Description

The Frances Loeb Library is seeking a part-time Public Services Assistant to support researchers and librarians in the Special Collections Reading Room located in Cambridge, MA. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in reference, customer service, and special collections and archival operations. Reporting to the Collection Management Archivist and working closely with Collections Team members, the individual in this position will provide support in overseeing the reading room as well as with specific library projects and tasks.

Responsibilities

Staff the Reading Room, serving as the public face of the Frances Loeb Library Special Collections, assisting users, answering questions, and ensuring the safety and security of collections.
With the guidance of librarians, provide reference and public services to researchers in the reading room.
Assist patrons with public-facing library systems (including HOLLIS, HOLLIS for Archival Discovery, HOLLIS Images, Material Order SEARCH, and HOLLIS Special Request).
Work with library systems and tools (AEON, and may also include ArchivesSpace, CollectionSpace, and others).
Train and supervise student workers.
May assist in responding to photoduplication requests.
Assist with stacks management projects, including shelf reads and labelling.
Provide support for the daily retrieval and re-shelving of collections used by researchers.
May support public services team projects, perform routine clerical tasks, and complete other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Strong attention to detail. Excellent organizational and communication skills. Ability to multi-task and complete work in a timely manner. Sensitivity to proper care and handling of special collections materials. Previous library experience or current library and information science students preferred.

Hours and Compensation

This is a 14-hour per week, temporary position available for up to 3 months, with the possibility of an extension. Hours must be completed over 2.5 days Monday through Friday, 9:45am-4:15pm. Must be able to start by February 2, 2026.

Salary $25/hour

How to Apply

Please email resume and cover letter to: Claudia Heske Lewis [email protected].
Application review will begin mid-January.