Reference and Instruction Assistant - Linda Hall Library
Location: USA - MO - Kansas City
Work Where Science Lives
Linda Hall Library, one of the world’s foremost independent research libraries devoted to science, engineering, and technology, is seeking a Reference and Instruction Assistant to join its Special Collections and Public Services team.
Our Mission
The Linda Hall Library is a guardian of the collective intellectual heritage with regard to science, technology, and engineering disciplines, a destination for advanced research and scholarship, and a center for public education in the sciences. Additionally, the Library’s grounds are maintained as an urban arboretum that is open to the public for education and enjoyment.
Why Work at Linda Hall?
The Library’s collections, programs, and extraordinary talent makes us a place where people of all backgrounds and interests can learn, invent, and explore. The brilliant and collaborative team at Linda Hall Library inspires and engages with a curious public, illuminating the connections between our collections, science, and contemporary life.
Work at a place unlike any other, surrounded by rare books, nature, and great colleagues.
JOB PURPOSE
The Reference and Instruction Assistant is responsible for the provision of reference service for patrons needing assistance in the use of the Library and its collections in collaboration with colleagues in the Collections and Reference division. This position will also work to highlight collection material that overlaps with STEM initiatives and exposes the Library’s resources to that community through reference tools, digital collections, and virtual/in-person instruction
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Provide research and reference service for patrons needing advanced assistance in the use of the Library and its collections.
• Generate research tools and finding aids to assist patrons in discovery of collection content.
• Offer library orientation and instruction for Library visitors as needed.
• Develop and create digital collections from the Library’s collection that supports work in the STEM sphere, and support access to those collections through in-person and virtual instruction sessions.
• Participate in collection development, circulation processes, and resolution of document delivery citations, as needed.
• Other duties as required.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
• Be enrolled in an MLS (or equivalent) degree from an ALA-accredited library and information science program.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
• Familiarity with pedagogical best practices for bibliographic instruction.
• Familiarity with Library of Congress classification; knowledge of ExLibris library automation software; background in science and engineering; familiarity with at least one foreign language are desirable.
CORE CAPABILITIES
1. Teamwork: Demonstrates a capacity for internal and cross-departmental communication and cooperation. Works cohesively with others, actively participates within groups to achieve organizational goals.
2. Flexibility: Easily adapts to change and modifies behaviors to deal effectively with adjustments in workflows, work environment, and organizational goals.
3. Patron Focus: Creates a welcoming environment for patrons. Listens carefully, asks questions, and responds to inquiries in a thorough manner. Views Library operations through the patron’s perspective.
4. Gathering Information: Thoroughly investigates questions and situations to collect and organize relevant information in a way that is understandable and usable.
5. Presenting Ideas: Effectively shares information in a variety of settings ranging from one-on-one meetings to group presentations and tours.
6. Writing Skills: Writes clearly and succinctly to share important information and create a desired effect. Demonstrates effective use of grammar and checks work for errors.
7. Technology Proficiency: Demonstrates proficient use of the tools, equipment, devices, and software applications required in the role. Keeps up with new technology and software applications associated with a field of work. Learns technical skills quickly.
WORKING CONDITIONS
• Work is performed in a normal library environment.
• Ability to work outside standard work hours as needed.
Culture and Perks
• Tranquil Environment: Work in an atmosphere of learning, a space that is conducive to both quiet contemplation and spirited collaboration. With over 220,000 square feet of library space, the Library offers large workspaces with natural light and views of the verdant Linda Hall Arboretum.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Full-time employees enjoy a rich paid time off benefit and a holiday schedule that includes two floating holidays. Unlike many public libraries, it is closed weekends and most evenings and offer flexible schedules.
• Robust Retirement Plan: The Library invests in the future of its employees and offers a substantial contribution to retirement savings in the form of an employer contribution and a match.
• Commitment to Learning: Linda Hall Library encourages lifelong learning and advances professional development in the forms of training, conferences, professional memberships, and other development opportunities.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package:
o Medical and dental insurance
o Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and HSA option
o Life insurance and paid long-term disability
• Unbeatable Location: Linda Hall is in the cultural heart of the city, within walking distance to Kansas City’s leading museums, verdant fountains and parks, and top local restaurants and shopping destinations.
COMPANY VALUES/STATEMENTS
The Linda Hall Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
The Linda Hall Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.
Application instructions:
Interested? Apply online at https://www.lindahall.org/about/careers/career-opportunities