Legal Research

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Historical Society of Washington, D.C., Kiplinger Research Library

TITLE: Special Collections Reference Librarian/Archivist and Collections

SALARY: $45,000 annual salary

BENEFITS: Full benefits

CLASSIFICATION: Professional full time position

POSITION PURPOSE: The Special Collections Reference Librarian/Archivist, Kiplinger Research Library and Collections, is responsible for serving the public by assisting them in using the collections of the Kiplinger Library and by responding to phone, email and letter queries. Responsibilities include fostering a positive image of the HSW and building good will with the community through every public contact. The reference librarian also assists in acquiring, cataloging, and processing collections as time permits, and for handling collections responsibly to protect and preserve them for future researchers.

REPORTABILITY: Reports to the Library Director.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Required: MLS from an ALA

accredited school of library and information science. Knowledge of the professional practices, procedures and techniques of library science. Thorough knowledge of current reference practices, including adherence to standards of accuracy, timeliness, tact, and confidentiality. Excellent interpersonal, customer service, and oral and written communication skills. Expertise in using library automation systems for finding library materials. Knowledge of basic computer functions. Ability to track a variety of tasks in a fast-paced environment. Ability to function as part of a team of professionals and volunteers. Ability to lift boxes weighing up to 40 pounds. Ability to maintain a work schedule that includes 40 hours per week and alternating Saturdays.

Preferred: Experience serving the public with reference assistance. Special Collections or Archives experience. Cataloging experience. Research skills and demonstrated interest in Washington history. Experience with photograph collections, including preservation and digitization practices. BA in history.