From the Minnesota Library Association website:

http://www.mnlibraryassociation.org/jobs/reference-associate]

Reference Associate

 

posted Jun 25, 2013 at 8:39am 

Employer: Minnesota Historical Society.

Location: St. Paul.

State/Province: Minnesota.

Job Type: Full Time.

Salary / Rate: $3,150.00 monthly minimum.

 

Position Description/Job Duties:

The Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) seeks applicants for a Reference Associate to provide reference service to MHS researchers and staff; and to work on projects related to reference service as a member of a reference staff team.  This is a full time, regular (2,088 annual hours) position located at the History Center, St. Paul, MN.

 

SUMMARY OF WORK:

Responsibilities include:  1) provides in-person reference service to the public and to MHS staff at the information desk or over the telephone; 2) researches MHS materials to answer reference inquires by e-commerce, letter, e-mail or telephone so that researchers will receive adequate reference assistance; 3) participates in planning and execution of projects and tasks as a member of a reference team; 4) provides bibliographic and archival research methods instruction to groups of students, adults, and staff members; 5) serves on Reference department, MHS and outside committees; and

6) participates in the evaluation and implementation of innovative methods of reference service, particularly those using technology.

 

Position Requirements/Qualifications:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

B.A. in a related field plus three years program experience providing reference assistance in a library or archives setting or equivalent OR a masters degree in library science or archival studies, plus two years program experience or equivalent.

Strong commitment to working with the public and contributing to a customer service team.

Ability to work effectively in a demanding, high-volume reference setting.

Experience using print and online catalogs, databases, archival finding aids, and the Internet for reference work.

Strong oral and written communication skills. Strong time management skills.

Ability to work a flexible schedule.

Ability to learn new skills and apply them effectively to the demands of the job.

Experience using strong problem-solving skills and creative approaches to reference services in an evolving library environment.

Experience developing web content, including working knowledge of html and web development platforms or programs.

Familiarity with emerging technologies in the design and delivery of reference services (social networking, podcasting, etc.) Experience in electronic reference services (instant messaging, virtual reference, etc.).

Ability to occasionally work with dirty or moldy materials; lift oversized items and handle items in excess of 50 pounds.

 

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduate course work in the social sciences or humanities, preferably history.

Knowledge of Minnesota history.

Experience creating LibGuides or other online subject guides.  

Active involvement in a library or archives professional association.

Application Instructions:

 

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  Applications must be received or post-marked no later than July 8, 2013. 

 

TO APPLY:  Send an MHS application, cover letter, and resume to:  Minnesota Historical Society, Human Resources, #1048 Reference Associate position, 345 Kellogg Blvd W, St Paul, MN 55102.  To be considered an applicant, you must submit all requested application materials.  If not complete, your application materials will not be accepted and your materials will be returned.  If submitting materials for more than one position, provide an MHS application, cover letter and resume for each position.  Applicants who are offered employment will be subject to passing a background check as a condition of employment.  For an application, see our website at www.mnhs.org/about/jobs or call MHS Job Line 651-259-3181.  EEO. Your application will be acknowledged. No phone calls please.

 

Application Deadline: Monday, July 8, 2013