Reference Librarian, Printed Collections
The Patricia D. Klingenstein Library at the New-York Historical Society
The New-York Historical Society is seeking an experienced reference librarian to join its staff in the Library’s department of printed collections which contains 350,000 books and pamphlets; 10,000 newspaper titles; 18,000 broadsides; over 10,000 published maps and atlases; 15,000 pieces of sheet music; 10,000 dining menus; and over 500 hotel files. This series of interrelated collections chronicles the history of New York and the nation from the 17thcentury to the present. Each year more than 10,000 researchers use these collections on-site and remotely, including N-YHS staff; scholars; curators from other institutions; students (graduate and college); teachers; journalists; interior designers; creative writers; genealogists; real estate developers; staff from TV shows, film production companies, news programs, magazines and newspapers; and curious New Yorkers.
Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be an experienced professional, able to thrive in an active, collaborative environment with multiple responsibilities, projects and deadlines, including: providing reference assistance on a daily basis;registering on-site researchers; ensuring that researchers uphold preservation and security guidelines; coordinating group visits to the library and making presentations to a portion of these groups; working with the IT department to make sure all online reference subscriptions are working properly and are updated as needed; participating in collection development; contributing to the library’s blog; serving on library committees; representing the library at institutional-wide meetings; other duties as assigned.
Qualifications: M.L.S. from an A.L.A.-accredited program; minimum of two years experience in a busy reference setting; strong public service orientation; experience presenting to groups; demonstrable knowledge of emerging library technologies, electronic reference sources, and traditional print resources; outstanding interpersonal and communication skills; initiative, flexibility and the ability to work cooperatively in a team-based, user-centered environment. Must be able to work Saturdays, September through May.
Preferred: Previous experience working in a special collections library; knowledge of New York or American history.
Compensation:
Salary: $38,000-$41,000, commensurate with background and experience. Attractive benefits package.
To Apply:
For consideration please send cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information of three references to hr1@nyhistory.org. In the subject line please reference the job title. The New-York Historical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
