Job Summary/Basic Function:

The Gottesman Libraries is seeking a Circulation and Reference Librarian who plays a key role in delivering high-quality reader and reference services to meet the needs of a graduate research institution focusing on education, psychology, and the applied health sciences. The incumbent must be committed to excellence in service; attuned to emerging needs in circulation, information, reference, and instruction; and a highly responsible and responsive team player. In coordination with unit staff, they will manage up to one dozen part-time, hourly associates in activities that support access to, maintenance of, and use of the general research collection, as well as the contemporary children’s literature and K-12 curriculum collections.

The Circulation and Reference Librarian will collaboratively strengthen front-line services for members and affiliates of Teachers College, Columbia University – services that align with College-wide strategic priorities, including: enhancing student pathways; advancing research; leading in digital innovation; and building a culture that supports our community.
We invite applications from candidates who, through their experience and/or service, will contribute to the advancement and distinctiveness of the College community.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Administers, develops, and reviews policies and procedures related to loans and returns of library resources
• Plans and rearranges the circulating collection, in coordination with staff, to accomplish shifting, signage, and communications
• Provides ready and in-depth reference service, including research consultations, workshops, guides, and timely response to patrons to meet their needs in access, information, and research, whether subscribed or open; in-person, online, or via text
• Oversees part-time hourly staff, including their training documentation, library FAQs, and other instructional materials
• Coordinates with staff on managing and scheduling the Services Desk to ensure coverage during all open hours
• Assists with timely reporting on the delivery of reader and reference services through contributions to the blog, newsletter, and other media
• Participates in campus-wide access and reference committees
• Engage in Professional Development
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science, accredited by the American Library Association
• One-two years of related job experience in an academic library
• Familiarity with Alma, Primo, and best practices in circulation and reference
• Strong customer service orientation
• Good technical skills, including proficiency in MS Office and Springshare
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Willing to work evening and weekend hours, as needed

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of reference sources, citation management tools, and academic database searching
• Additional Master’s degree or equivalent
• Circulation and reference experience in an academic research library