Research Librarian, Kent School, Kent, CT

Posted July 7, 2022

Description:

Research Librarian – Kent School
Reports To: Director of the John Gray Park ’28 Library
Level: Full time, Academic Year (40 weeks)
Supervises: Students one evening/week
Function: The John Gray Park ‘28 Library at Kent School seeks a Research Librarian to serve as a primary point of contact for student research at Kent and faculty research support.
Background:  Kent School is a coeducational independent boarding school enrolling 520 students in grades 9-12. Our mission is to educate students intellectually, socially, ethically, and spiritually so that they will be prepared to contribute to the common good in the world beyond Kent School.

General Description: 

The person in this position has a deep understanding of the landscape of scholarly resources both traditional and emerging. They will promote research and academic integrity strategies through individual and group instruction and school-wide programming, and help manage the continued development of a robust student tutoring program. They will assist with supervision of students in the library generally, and specifically one evening per week when school is in session.

Librarians on staff typically teach a required class in study skills and research methods, create and deliver instruction in research practices and resources on an individual and whole-class basis, and facilitate project work in the library and in classrooms. They participate in ongoing collection development of both print and digital materials and promotion of same though programming and curation of digital guides for students and teachers.

The successful candidate is looking for the opportunity to promote curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and broaden the horizons of young people in a rigorous academic environment. You genuinely enjoy working with teenagers, faculty members, and staff across the institution.  You are excited about introducing students to the world of scholarship and research, and appreciate the uniquely creative opportunities provided by the boarding school setting. The benefits of summers off, free tasty lunches provided in our dining hall, and not having coaching or dormitory responsibilities are all appealing to you.
Qualifications: We are looking for someone who will contribute positively to a library environment that is welcoming, supportive, and evolving. Someone who embraces educational technology and efficiency while also responding to students with patience and understanding. Someone with experience working to support the learning goals set by teachers in a variety of disciplines. Someone with an appetite for novel project formats and the dynamic environment provided by working with teenagers, who wants to work on a library team that shares all the qualities noted here. Specifically, you should have:

A strong desire to learn about Kent’s mission, values, and culture; excellent personal time management skills, a flexible approach, and lots of energy; an aptitude for processes and procedures within a team environment; comfort with the Google Workspace suite, LibGuides, Canvas (or other LMS; Kent is adopting Canvas in 2022), and other related tools, or an aptitude for learning new technology.; an MLS/MLIS degree from an ALA accredited program, or a related degree and previous library experience, with preference given to those who have worked previously in an independent school. We are also open to applications from teachers with relevant experience who are seeking to transition from full time teaching and motivated to reconfigure.Physical Requirements: 

Primarily an office/classroom environment with regular handling of dusty print materials and need to move to locations across our campus.Ability to bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, climb, kneel, and lift a loaded book-sized box.

Additional Requirements:

• Successful completion of post-offer pre-employment criminal background checks and drug test.
• Maintain punctual and regular attendance. Limited remote component under normal circumstances.
• Work is performed on a smoke free campus.

The essential functions and basic skills for this position have been included. This is not intended to be construed as an exclusive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. Kent School is committed to making equal employment opportunities available to all qualified persons. In accordance with federal, state, and local laws, we recruit, hire, promote and evaluate all personnel without regard to race, color, religion, age, gender, ancestry, citizen status, veteran status, physical or mental handicaps, sexual orientation, or any other factors protected by law. Candidates from historically underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. Compensation: Based on experience.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a short cover letter and resume to Director of the JGP Library Amy Voorhees: [email protected]. Please include your name and “Research Librarian” in the subject line.

Please see the full job posting HERE.