Reference Librarian SEIU

About the Opportunity

About F. W. Olin Library

F. W. Olin Library at the Northeastern Oakland campus seeks a public service-oriented librarian to join the reference and instruction team as a Reference Librarian.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Head of Reference and Access Services, the Reference Librarian staffs the Reference Desk, plans and teaches information literacy sessions, acts as a liaison to academic departments, and participates in library outreach initiatives.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

Reference Services (40%)

• Manage reference activities, including staffing the Reference Desk.
• Guide students, faculty, and staff in the use of the library’s physical and electronic collections.
• Meet with students and faculty individually or in groups for research appointments and assignment planning.

Information Literacy (25%)

• Create and maintain LibGuides.
• Lead information literacy instruction sessions.
• Demonstrate effective use of the library’s physical and electronic collections.
• Teach research strategies and ethical research concepts based on the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Information Literacy Framework.
• Apply critical librarianship and pedagogy principles in instructional activities.

Collection Development (15%)

• Select and deselect library resources within assigned subject areas to support campus curriculum and faculty research.
• Create thematic displays.
• Develop “Olin Recommends” booktalkers and booklists.

Outreach (10%)

• Support library programming.
• Staff campus events and create handouts and mini-collections for activities such as Staff Wellness Fairs and First-Year Orientation.
• Serve as a liaison to academic departments and student groups.
• Administer library social media platforms and create related content.

General Public Services (10%)

• Oversee the Circulation Desk as needed.
• Search for missing books.
• Collect fines and fees.
• Resolve patron issues.
• Provide computer and technology support.
• Create signage and other public service materials.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with course reserves and interlibrary loan activities as needed.
• Record and maintain library usage and service statistics, including head counts, reference transactions, information literacy sessions, and student interactions.
• Serve on campus and professional committees and collaborate with other campus departments.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to remain informed about emerging trends, technologies, and innovations in librarianship.

Minimum Qualifications

Required

• Master’s degree in librarianship from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited institution.
• One to two years of professional experience, preferably in an academic library.
• Effective teaching skills in both group and individual settings.
• Demonstrated experience using databases, electronic resources, online catalogs, web-based resources, and print resources.
• Enthusiasm for and commitment to library public services.
• Working knowledge of hardware and software commonly used in libraries, including personal computers, Apple products, and printers.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies and instructional methodologies.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to provide and follow clear instructions and communicate effectively with library users and students.
• Strong planning, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to contribute to a positive work culture that supports customer service and teamwork.
• Demonstrated commitment to serving and supporting the student population and learning about the communities and backgrounds represented on campus.

Preferred

• Familiarity with an integrated library system (ILS); Ex Libris Alma preferred.

Physical, Mental and Environmental Demands

• Ability to work one weeknight evening per week and occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
• Ability to work extensively at a computer screen.
• Ability to lift 10 pounds overhead and push up to 50 pounds on a book truck.

Required Documents

• Resume

Position Type

Library