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Librarian II/Specialist II, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York, NY

Posted January 14, 2019

Founded in 1925 and named a National Historic Landmark in 2017, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is one of the world’s leading cultural institutions devoted to the collection, preservation, and study of materials focused on African American, African Diaspora, and African experiences. The Schomburg Center, featuring diverse programming and collections spanning over 10 million items, has for over nine decades illuminated the richness of black history, arts, and experience worldwide. As a key part of one of the largest public library systems in the world, the Schomburg Center is committed to maximizing free and public access to its collections, exhibitions, educational activities, and much of its programming. 

 

The Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division enables researchers to work directly with original, rare, and unique source materials. Beginning with rare treasures from Arturo Alfonso Schomburg’s personal holdings, the collection has grown since Arturo Schomburg’s collection was acquired in 1926. Today, the Division holds more than 5,000 rare books, nearly 1,000 manuscript collections, and 15,000 pieces of sheet music and rare printed material, with more added annually.

 

The Librarian II/Specialist II is responsible for providing reference services in the Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division and providing basic reference services and assisting with collection processing in the Art and Artifacts Division. The reference librarian interfaces with the public and the research community, performing an important public service function within the Schomburg Center and the field itself. The reference librarian will work 35 hours per week to be scheduled between Monday and Saturday, 10:00am-6:00pm, and some evenings and weekends as required. Schedule is subject to change.

 

Principal Responsibilities

Reporting to Curator of Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books and working closely with the Curator of Art & Artifacts, the Reference Librarian will:

 

Public Services – Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division (80%)

  • Provide onsite reference and referral services, written and remote reference assistance, and subject expertise in the Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division of the Schomburg Center 
  • Provide in-depth research assistance to users via one-on-one consultations
  • Participate in outreach activities such as class visits, group presentations, and donor and membership tours
  • Update and create content for Web pages, user guides and training materials
  • Maintain a personal program of continuous education and professional development
  • Perform other duties as required

 

Reference Service and Collection Processing – Art and Artifacts Division (20%)

  • Respond to basic reference inquiries
  • Log new accessions into the ephemeral and material culture collections
  • Maintain the Artist Files research resource

 

Minimum Qualifications

  • ALA-accredited Master’s degree in library, archival or information studies, or Master’s degree in liberal arts or humanities and successful completion of archival training
  • Knowledge of African American, African and African diasporan history
  • Demonstrated experience providing reference service in a library or archival repository
  • Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
  • Successfully demonstrated initiative, accuracy, attention to detail, judgment, and ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
  • Demonstrated digital literacy skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Knowledge of archival theory, practice, and national and international standards and best practices.
  • Advanced degree in any of the following: African American History/Studies/Literature, Africana Studies, or cultural studies

 

Physical Duties

  • Limited physical effort is required
  • Light lifting required, including shifting ofoversize folders and containers
  • Lifting up to 40 lbs. required
  • May require travel within NYC
  • Daily use of a computer
  • Pushing/pulling fully loaded book carts and racks

 

Starting Salary

USD $52,248.00/Yr.

Union / Non Union

Local 1930

To view the full position and apply, please click here. 

 

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