Reference Librarian

The Oregon Historical Society is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Reference Librarian to join our team. As a key member of our research library, you will provide expert reference and instructional services to a diverse range of researchers and learners.

• Provide in-depth research assistance to external and internal users, utilizing a wide range of library materials, including maps, government documents, rare books, photographs, manuscripts, sound recordings, and audiovisual materials.
• Develop and deliver instruction, outreach projects, and materials to inform students and the general public about the use of library resources, primary sources, and other topics of interest and relevance to the institutional mission and constituent needs.
• Assist in the operation of the reference service, including developing and organizing print and online reference tools and materials, maintaining and scheduling service of specialized library equipment, and developing and implementing policies and procedures.
• Maintain reference collections, including books, serials, microfilm, government documents, digital, video & audio materials, and biography and subject files.
• Report progress and statistics to the Reference Services Manager on a monthly and as-needed basis.
• Serve on departmental and institution-wide committees, and contribute to social media and web content to promote the use of library collections and the understanding of Oregon history.
• Support institutional projects as directed by the Reference Services Manager and Library Director.
• Conduct training for OHS staff in using the resources of the OHS Research Library.
• Makes presentations at public conferences and other public venues, as needed.
• Participate in professional development activities in order to maintain knowledge of current library practices and historical scholarship.

• Master's degree in Library and Information Science, History, Archival Management, or related area or equivalent academic training and/or experience, with direct reference experience.
• Two years' direct reference experience in addition to education and training.
• Knowledge of United States, Pacific Northwest, and Oregon history.
• Knowledge of current principles and methods of archival and professional library service; current library organization; and current reference and special collections procedures, including preservation, and security.
• Knowledge of U.S. copyright law as it pertains to library materials.
• Knowledge of MARC cataloging and demonstrated facility with library catalogs, archival finding aids, and online reference resources required.
• Demonstrated instruction and public speaking experience. Knowledge of information literacy concepts and teaching with primary sources. Demonstrated experience utilizing online learning and presentation tools.

• Knowledge of and experience with arrangement and description of archival materials.
• Experience with genealogical research and in using online genealogical tools.