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Research Services Archivist

Research Services Archivist

Pennsylvania State University Libraries
Penn State University Park

The Pennsylvania State University Libraries seeks applications for a temporary Research Services Archivist to serve in a one-year non-tenure track faculty position. We seek a proactive and innovative archivist or librarian to facilitate reference services using rare books, archives, and manuscript materials. The University Libraries values diversity of thought, perspective, experience and people, and is actively committed to a culture of inclusion and respect. We encourage candidates to apply who thrive in a welcoming multicultural environment.

The University Libraries values diversity of thought, perspective, experience and people, and is actively committed to a culture of inclusion and respect. We encourage candidates to apply who thrive in a welcoming multicultural environment. See more information about Penn State’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusive Excellence, and information about the Libraries’ diversity efforts.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Providing in-person and virtual reference services, including research consultations
  • Ensuring that policies and workflows operate smoothly to provide consistently strong customer service
  • Assisting with the supervision of the Research Services Team
  • Hiring and training new student employees at the beginning of that Fall Semester, in cooperation with Research Services team members
  • Overseeing reference operations in the Special Collections Reading Room
  • Collaborating with colleagues across the University Libraries, as well as with complementary units within the Special Collections Library to support the teaching, learning, and research mission of the University
  • Some evening and/or weekend work may be required

Requirements:

This position requires an MLS degree or course work from an ALA-accredited institution(or equivalent); experience related to archival reference work or public services in a special collections environment, as well as demonstrated commitment to making rare and archival materials accessible; excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work independently and collaboratively; and strong commitment to diversity, equity, respect and inclusion.

Preferred qualifications:

Some management or supervisory experience.

Environment:

The Penn State University Libraries are a strategic asset to Penn State, advancing intellectual discovery, information literacy, and lifelong learning, all in support of the University’s strategic goals in teaching, research, service, and outreach. The University Libraries is ranked among the top 10 research libraries in North America, according to the Association for Research Libraries investment rankings, and provides services at University Park and 22 other campus locations throughout Pennsylvania as well as online. We serve more than 6,400 faculty and 46,800 students at University Park, and approximately 97,500 students university-wide. More than 120 faculty librarians in the University Libraries benefit from extensive technological resources and research support services. Penn State is a member of the Big Ten Academic Alliance, the Association of American Universities, and the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities.

The University Libraries is a member of the Association of Research Libraries, the Association of College and Research Libraries, the Center for Research Libraries, Digital Preservation Network, AP Trust, SPARC, CNI, the ACRL Diversity Alliance and a number of other organizations. The University Park campus is set in State College, a university town located in central Pennsylvania. State College offers a vibrant community with outstanding recreational facilities, a low crime rate, and excellent public schools. The campus is within a half-day`s drive to Washington D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, or Pittsburgh. The University Park Airport is served by three major carriers with flights to Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Chicago and Detroit. 

Compensation and Benefits:

Rank and salary are dependent upon qualifications and experience. Fringe benefits include liberal vacation, excellent insurance and health care coverage, state or TIAA retirement options, and educational privileges. In addition, faculty in the University Libraries are afforded funds for professional development travel annually.

Application Instructions:

Applications and all supporting materials must be submitted online. To be considered for the position, interested candidates should upload

  • a letter of application
  • resume or C.V.
  • the names and contact information of four professional references (including email addresses

Review of applications will begin June 3, 2019 and continue until position is filled. Questions may be addressed to Sara Hackett, Faculty Search Coordinator, at saw5180@psu.edu.

Apply

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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