Reports To: Deputy Director for Programs
Level: Part-Time, 15-20 hours per week
Supervises: Library research assistants, interns, and volunteers
Function:
Responsible for the administration, care, and management of the
Fairfield Museum’s research library, its books, historical manuscripts,
archives, genealogical and photographic materials. Manages access to
the collection and provides research and reference services.
Background: The
Fairfield Museum is a prominent center for the humanities, and an
award-winning institution of statewide renown. The Museum’s Research
Library is among the best resources for Connecticut history, used by
dozens of students, scholars, and researchers each year. It is home to
the Collier Collection of Connecticut History with books and research
materials covering all aspects of state history. The archives include
more than 200 manuscript collections of family, business, and
organizational records related to Fairfield and its region. Researchers
make particular use of our genealogical and photographic resources.
The library participates in statewide digital initiatives including
Connecticut Collections and the Connecticut Digital Archive.
General Duties:
Direct and manage public access to Library holdings. Lead outreach and
partnership initiative with regional libraries and academic
institutions. Provide research assistance to library users in person, by
telephone, and online. Assist with the development of library programs
for the researching historical community at all levels from young
students to scholarly researchers. Implement a collection development
policy in local, regional, and state history to keep the library
collection current. Oversee library space utilization and preservation
plans for the collection. Oversee the organization and bibliographic
control of public catalog data. Work with the Executive Director to
expand library support through grants, donor stewardship, and other
fundraising activities. Actively participate in academic, museum and
humanities professional organizations to promote the Fairfield Museum’s
Library as a prominent resource.
Qualifications:
Successful applicant will bring creative energy, careful attention to
detail, and enthusiasm to their work, and have 3-5 years of relevant and
progressive work experience. Master’s degree in history or library
science with knowledge and interest in Connecticut history is preferred.
Applicants should also clearly demonstrate their ability and experience
with: Experience with the organization, description, and cataloging of
archival materials. Knowledge of American and Connecticut history.
Familiarity with or interest in genealogical research and resources.
Ability to build and maintain professional relationships. Knowledge of
professional standards for library reference and research services.
Ability to work independently with creative problem-solving skills and
self-starting energy. Superior verbal and written communication skills.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift and bend with boxes or volumes weighing up to 30
pounds; climb and reach on step stools and ladders; ability to be
exposed to occasional dust and allergens. New Fairfield Museum hires
must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the date of their
appointment. Employees are considered fully vaccinated when it has been
at least two weeks since they received the second dose of a two-dose
COVID-19 vaccine, or the single dose of a one-dose vaccine. Consistent
with applicable law, Fairfield Museum will consider individual
exceptions to the vaccination requirement based on an employee’s medical
condition or sincerely held religious belief. Employees with an
approved exception may be subject to weekly testing and other COVID-19
safety protocols as directed, including, for example, wearing masks and
social distancing.
Compensation: $40/hour for a
flexible 15-20 hour / week. The Fairfield Museum is an equal
opportunity employer and encourages applications from people of color,
women, and LGBTQ+ applicants.
To Apply: Email a cover letter and resume detailing your relevant experience by July 22, 2022 to: search@fairfieldhs.org.
Please see the full job posting HERE.
