Research and Instruction Librarian

Description

Job Summary:

The Frances Loeb Library is an integral part of the dynamic and invigorating environment at the Graduate School of Design (GSD). The GSD provides an exciting platform for interaction and the exchange of ideas by integrating the disciplines of architecture, landscape architecture, and urban planning and design, alongside the research conducted in our studio-based programs, as well as in the Master in Design Studies and Doctoral programs.

The Harvard Graduate School of Design’s Frances Loeb Library is seeking a creative, flexible, and team-oriented professional to join Research and Teaching.  The Research and Instruction Librarian will work closely with faculty, students, and staff to support, organize, and increase the library’s offerings surrounding research support, instruction and instruction offerings, and asynchronous resources attuned to the growth and evolution of the GSD’s curriculum.

Position Description: 

Instruction and Teaching

• Works with GSD faculty and library colleagues to programmatically develop Loeb Library instruction.
• Plans and implements high-impact methods of teaching (on-line and in-person, synchronous and asynchronous) covering a broad array of research skills and tools.
• Leads the development and creation of an instruction calendar for the library, publicizing it to the GSD community each semester.
• Develops and leads dynamic training and professional development programs for all Loeb Library staff in research and teaching skills and methods.
• Collaborates with Special Collections Curator, Writing Services Specialist, and other librarians to develop and teach instruction courses.
• Uses Springshare’s LibCal to schedule and track library instruction.

Research Support and Collaboration

• Coordinates in-person and virtual research support in Loeb Library via lateral management; develops efficient workflows and the required expertise among staff.
• Oversees Loeb Library’s Ask a Design Librarian tool working with a team of librarians to perform triage and answer reference questions, maintaining the tool in Springshare’s LibAnswers.
• Organizes and oversees Loeb Library’s Research Consultations, managing the librarians and calendar using Springshare’s LibCal tool.
• Works closely with the Research & Teaching librarians, collaborating on research support and instruction; offering support when needed.
• Collaborates with, participates in, and coordinates research support and instruction with Access Services, Collections, and Administration.
• Provides in-depth reference services and research guidance to students, faculty, and outside researchers using library systems and tools.
• Works with GSD departments and Library to facilitate and support school outreach activities, such as Open Houses and Orientation.

Administration

• Oversees the Loeb Library’s Springshare accounts, working with Harvard Library’s Springshare point person to ensure system needs are met.
• Keeps up with updates and changes to the Springshare system and shares those out with the Loeb Library community.
• Serves on Harvard Library and university-wide committees and initiatives.
• Participates in professional development activities and in professional organizations.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Works with all Loeb Library team members to improve learning and adoption of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging principles across all facets of the organization.

Collection Development

• Works with the Associate Librarian for Collections and Outreach and serves as a selector on the team of selectors, building collections in a design-related subject area.

Digital Scholarship and Emerging Technologies

• Participates in supporting the GSD community around digital scholarship and related needs, including staying up to date with Artificial Intelligence and its relation to libraries and design education.

Working Conditions :

• Work is mainly performed in an office setting.
• Flexible, hybrid work schedules supported.
• Expectations are that staff work 3 days a week on-site. 

Additional Information:

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

Please note that in order to be considered for this position, a cover letter and resume are required with the submission of your application.

Requirements

Basic Qualifications:

• MLS or equivalent or relevant experience, e.g., significant experience in a specialized library, museum, or design setting.
• Experience working in the design fields.
• Minimum of 2 years' experience in a comparable library setting.
• Demonstrated research and teaching skills.
• Knowledge of design, engineering, and social science information sources.
• Experience managing laterally, organizing and collaborating effectively with colleagues.
• Ability to remain comfortable and adaptable in a rapidly changing environment, with the flexibility and versatility needed to effectively contribute to an evolving work situation as well as patience and adaptability for when change takes time.
• Interest in working with a diverse community and commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the curriculum and across the community.
• Track record in exploration and application of new technological solutions.
• Demonstrated skills in working collegially in a team environment.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Second graduate degree or undergraduate degree in architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning and design, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated skill in preparing and conducting library instruction.
• Demonstrated commitment to professional development.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.