Local History Librarian, (Full-Time), Westfield Athenaeum, MA
Posted March 14, 2022
Description:
Overview
Reporting to the Head of Adult Services, the Local History Librarian is the local history contact for
the library, engaging in research and answering inquiries in person or remotely. This person
responds to genealogy requests, teaches classes, and maintains the local history collection. As a
member of the Adult Services team, the person in this position provides high-quality customer
service at the Reference Desk to the library’s diverse patrons, captures statistics, tracks local stories
and Athenaeum history, collaborates with the Archivist, and implements programs.
Responsibilities
- Serves as the primary contact for local history and genealogy questions.
- Keeps current on reference, history and genealogy resources, purchasing items when warranted.
- Maintains the Westfield Room in order and continually updates vertical files on houses, people, and events.
- Keeps the library’s newspaper collection in order, including preparing newspapers for microfilming and adding to the Athenaeum’s records of library news and events.
- Processes interlibrary loans from ComCat and Clio in an efficient and timely manner.
- Tracks weekly and monthly reference statistics.
- Creates and implements public programs, either in person or virtual/hybrid.
- Supports library marketing, including contributing to the library’s social media, writing blog posts, and promoting library services and online resources.
- Collaborates with the Archivist and supports the Director as needed in the creation of historical displays, research, and outreach.
- Manages a section of the circulating collection, including selection and weeding.
- Provides general research assistance, basic technology help, and readers advisory services to patrons.
- Performs circulation duties as needed.
- Opens and closes the library as needed.
Required Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree in any subject, a master’s degree in library science and one to two years of professional library experience.
- Thorough knowledge of public library services and programs.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and writing skills.
- Strong research skills using both online and print resources.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with genealogical research.
- Experience creating and maintaining digital library collections.
Salary Range
$21.00 – $23.32 / hour
Closing Date
March 21, 2022
How to Apply:
Please submit a cover letter, a resume, and references by email to Guy McLain, Director, Westfield
Athenaeum at [email protected].