Princeton University Library Hiring for Reference Services Archivist at Princeton, New Jersey Full Time

The Reference Services Archivist provides management and direction to a team of public services staff as they democratize knowledge and provide increased access to the collections of the Seeley G. Mudd Manuscript Library. This position is responsible for managing Mudd Library’s reading room and reference services, and updating the content on the Special Collections website. Working with renowned Princeton faculty, the incumbent will provide high-quality, hands-on instruction to the students of Princeton University. The archivist will work closely with their supervisor to develop and implement departmental guidelines and procedures for service points with a focus on creating welcoming spaces and broad access to the collections.

Responsibilities:

• Manages the reading room, creating a welcoming, consistent and supportive experience for all, while ensuring procedures are followed for the care of the collections Works desk shifts at two service points and manages staffing schedules and training Answers detailed reference questions using the library’s collections Supervises up to 3 staff Manages Mudd Library instruction program in primary source literacy Updates web content Contributes to assessment of reference services

• Assists Asst. UL for SC Public Services to develop, implement, and monitor guidelines and procedures Represents SC Public Services on library committees

Requirements:

• Master’s degree or higher Three years experience at a library, historical society or similar institution, including experience working directly with visitors Minimum of two years supervising staff or equivalent experience in terms of training, motivating and directing employees to optimize workplace productivity and promote growth and development Understanding of best practices to maintain a welcoming and supportive environment for researchers while balancing appropriate care and handling of collection materials Understanding of research use of rare books, manuscripts, and special collections Ability to respond effectively, orally and in writing, to sophisticated research questions Familiarity with discovery tools Ability to learn how to use new software quickly and effectively Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to handle in-person interactions with care and equanimity Demonstrated ability to work with a diverse range of scholars, students, and independent researchers with varying levels of experience Commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment Demonstrated attention to detail and experience maintaining accurate records, managing tasks, and planning and organizing work to meet developing priorities Ability to exercise independent judgment and take initiative

Opportunities are available for professional development and to engage with the field at the local and national levels. Travel and weekend/evening hours occasionally required. Work may include pushing library carts and moving objects weighing up to 40 lbs.

Princeton University Library is committed to recruiting a diverse workforce and advancing the University’s commitment to racial equity within our community and in the world. We encourage candidates from all diverse backgrounds and life experiences to apply for our positions. To find out more about PUL’s work towards greater inclusivity, equity, and diversity, please see PUL’s “About” page.

The successful candidate will be appointed at a Professional Specialist rank appropriate to qualifications and experience. Applications will be accepted only from the AHire website:  http://dof.princeton.edu/academicjobs and must include a resume, cover letter, and list of three references with full contact information. Application review begins immediately and continues until the position is filled. This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. 

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.  EEO is the law.