We are excited to announce that
we have an opening for a term-limited 0.75 FTE position (with benefits)
as the Special Collections & Archives Instruction & Reference
Librarian at Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT. This role will
be from January-December 2023 and will work collaboratively with
our department, faculty, librarians, and students to provide innovative
instruction and research services using SC&A holdings in the areas
of rare books, the history of the book,
manuscripts, artists’ books, and primary source literacy. We
have a strong teaching program with generally between 80-100 sessions an
academic year that cover a wide variety of subject areas.
This
position will split
the instruction load with the Acting Dietrich Family Director of
Special Collections & Archives. In a typical academic year, the
Instruction & Reference Librarian would teach 35-50 class sessions.
They will also help provide effective
reference/research consultation both in-person and virtually.
Wesleyan’s Special Collections & Archives (SC&A) is the home of
the University’s archives, local history, manuscript, and rare book
collections.
The Special Collections is made up of over 45,000 volumes of
rare books ranging from medieval manuscript codices and early printed
books to 21st century fine press books, and covers numerous formats,
including books, pamphlets, broadsides, and
maps. It also holds a strong collection of over 1,000 artists’
books with one strength of the artists’ books being social issues and
social justice.
Located in Middletown, Connecticut, Wesleyan
University is one of
the nation’s premier liberal arts colleges with 3,000
undergraduates and 200 graduates. Established in 1831, Wesleyan is known
for its rich, open, and interdisciplinary curriculum. We have a
long-standing commitment to creating a dynamically diverse
campus comprised of students from all racial, ethnic, cultural,
and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Minimum Qualifications: Graduate
degree in library/information science or an advanced degree in a
relevant subject and
relevant experience in Special Collections and Archives or with
rare books; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and
experience. Experience (professional or graduate school experience will
be considered) providing instruction in
the use of rare books and primary source literacy. Experience
(professional or graduate student experience will be considered) in
providing library and/or archives research support. Excellent
interpersonal skills. Effective communications skills
with the ability to present publicly. Proven ability to work
independently and collaboratively in a team-based environment.
Demonstrated commitment to work within a diverse environment and
interact collegially with individuals of different backgrounds.
Strong user-service orientation and desire to work with
constituents in an academic environment. Ability to work occasional
evenings and weekends. Ability to physically engage with the collection,
including climbing, lifting, and use of ladders/step
stools with or without accommodation. Ability to lift up to 40
pounds with or without accommodation.
Preferred Qualifications:
In-depth knowledge of the history of printing, book collecting, and the
book trade. Experience
supporting research needs of undergraduate and graduate
students. Experience in developing collaborative outreach programming
for special collections and archives in person and/or through online
channels.
Position
is open until filled. For full consideration please apply by November 7, 2022 when first review of applications will begin.
Benefits: Wesleyan offers a broad
range of employee benefits and development opportunities, including
comprehensive group insurance plans, wellness programs and incentives,
generous paid time off and retirement plans. We also offer flexible work
schedules, employee and dependent tuition
programs, as well as access to Wesleyan’s BLS & GLS programs for
those who qualify (tuition is waived for up to 2 courses a term; some
fees and taxes may apply). Detailed information on the benefits of
working at Wesleyan is located HERE.
To learn more, please see the full job description and application information HERE.
