Reference Librarian

chicago history society•Chicago, IL

19h•Onsite

About The Position

The Reference Librarian provides professional research and reference support for the Museum’s research collections, including published materials, archives and manuscripts, photographs, architectural drawings, and other related print materials. This position supports onsite and remote researchers and facilitates meaningful access to the Museum’s collection. The Reference Librarian serves as a key point of access to the Museum’s research collections, assisting researchers in navigating complex library and archival materials. This position applies advanced knowledge, professional judgment and discretion to evaluate research inquiries, guide access and discovery, and ensure compliance with collection policies. The Reference Librarian advances the Museum’s mission by connecting all audiences with Chicago’s history while upholding professional standards for collections care and access.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS)
Minimum of three years professional experience as a reference librarian; experience in an academic or special collections research setting preferred
Knowledge of Chicago and its history
Knowledge of the Library of Congress classification system
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Ability to deal diplomatically and effectively with members of the public
Ability to work safely with fragile paper and film-based materials
Ability to manage multiple research requests and work effectively under pressure
Ability to ascend and descend stairs
Ability to lift and carry objects/boxes weighing up to 40 pounds
Demonstrated commitment to excellent public service
Commitment to the mission, values, and programs of the Chicago History Museum
Available to work Saturdays from September to May

Responsibilities

Provide equitable reference and research services to the Abakanowicz Research Center’s (ARC) broad audience, including academic researchers, independent scholars, university and high school students, architects, community organizations, house historians, hobbyists, genealogists, and members of the public, ensuring that all users feel welcomed and supported
Serve research collection items to researchers in the ARC, providing appropriate guidance and supervision on the use and handling of materials
Respond to email and written reference inquiries pertaining to Chicago history and the Museum’s research collections, exercising professional judgment to determine appropriate resources, research strategies and referrals
Serve as the primary contact for researcher questions regarding the restricted Chicago Police Department Red Squad records, ensuring compliance with the court order
Provide orientations and instructional sessions introducing researchers, interns, school/university classes, and area librarian professionals to ARC holdings, research tools and services
Work with the Research Collections Unit of the Collections Department to develop and maintain finding aids, research guides and other tools and resources that strengthen intellectual access to the collection
Stay conversant with online research resources and share that knowledge with researchers and fellow staff
Coordinate the ARC’s Chicago Metro History Day services
Participate in the development of policies, procedures, and strategies governing the service and use of the research collection
Participate in training of the Research Center Pages and the Research Center Associate to ensure consistent reference and research support
Advise the Senior Research Librarian and the Director of Collections on the development of annual goals and objectives for the Research Services Unit of the Department of Collections
Represent the Museum in appropriate local, national, and international forums
Engage diplomatically and effectively with members of the public, including in complex or sensitive situations
Work safely and responsibly with fragile paper and film-based materials, following guidance from Conservation unit staff
Ascend and descend stairs
Lift, carry, or otherwise move objects/boxes weighing up to 40 pounds
Instruct researchers, staff, interns, and volunteers in the use of the online catalog, other online resources, microfilm equipment, and other self-service equipment
Maintain reference materials and service areas in good order
Supervise interns and volunteers if requested
Perform other duties as needed