Taft’s reference librarian plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive information literacy, research, and information services to the community. Their expertise will be instrumental in assisting individuals in navigating and utilizing a diverse range of information resources. As a member of the library team, the reference librarian will contribute to developing an environment that promotes learning, curiosity, and digital literacy skills.
Responsibilities Include:
- Provides students and faculty with research assistance and instruction and support.
- Prepares and posts online course guides utilizing LibGuides.
- Partners with teachers and the Instruction and Innovation Librarian to design, schedule, and deliver appropriate library instruction and course materials.
- Collaborates with the Director on the overall Library program, policies, and mission.
- Attends workshops, continuing education programs, library conferences, and stays informed on professional issues and trends.
- Engages in Collection Development which includes reviewing course offerings and recommending new materials, as well as analyzing and weeding current print collection.
- Reads standard review sources to recommend additions to the collection based on the latest scholarship and community needs.
- Along with the library team, reviews all standing orders and journal subscriptions and makes recommendations for changes.
- Provides ILL services via OCLC.
(Note: This job may be filled as either a Staff or Faculty position depending on the candidate's interest in actively participating in the school's Residential Life and Afternoon programs.)
Qualifications:
- College graduate with MLS/MLIS or equivalent required. Current Masters candidates will be considered.
- Demonstrated experience of collaborative work with diverse groups of students, employees, administrators, and other campus parties to support and expand programmatic and institutional goals.
- Strong professional skills in speaking, writing, and with technology.
- Experience as a reference librarian or a related position preferred.
- Willingness to work a full-time schedule that will include evening and Saturday shifts.
Founded in 1890, The Taft School is a coeducational boarding school for students in grades nine through post graduate. Living where they learn, academically talented students from all over the world are guided by an extraordinary faculty on a 226-acre campus in Western Connecticut. With the motto “Not to be served but to serve” as a moral foundation, Taft graduates matriculate at our nation’s leading colleges and universities.