Temporary Reference Assistant - West Virginia and Regional History Center - Libraries

The West Virginia and Regional History Center in Libraries at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Temporary Reference Assistant.

About the Opportunity

The Reference Assistant provides reference service to researchers to enable discovery, access, and use the West Virginia and Regional History Center (WVRHC) collections and provides research services to patrons through in-depth historical and genealogical research within WVHRC collections and delivery of findings. This position will staff public services desks and provide reference and research service to remote and on-site patrons. The incumbent reports to the WVRHC Reference Supervisor.

What You'll Do

Reference and research services provision:

• Staff public services desks and provide research assistance to onsite and remote patrons.
• Conduct reference interviews and uses finding aids, inventories, WVRHC collections databases and card catalogs, and the library catalog to help patrons identify relevant archival collections and other materials at the WVRHC.
• Monitor reference queue and claims questions.
• Provide research service to patrons through in-depth historical and genealogical research.
• Coordinate reproduction and licensing of images as needed.
• Communicate results to patrons in-person, over the phone, via email, and through the online reference platform. Records reference transaction statistics. Assist patrons using microfilm readers, photocopiers, and printers.
• Monitor the use of archival materials in the manuscript reading room.
• Register new patrons, receive payment for services, and direct calls at the registration desk as needed.
• Enforce reading room rules and regulations while maintaining a welcoming setting.

Support for exhibition, instruction, and programming:

• Provide research support to meet exhibition, instruction, and programming needs of the WVRHC.
• Contribute to social media accounts.
• May assist with tours and instruction sessions as needed.

Administrative and organizational support:

• Participate in department and library wide meetings and training sessions.
• Serve on appropriate interdepartmental committees as a WVRHC representative.
• Identify and participate in training opportunities specific to the position.
• Other duties as assigned.

Pay Grade:12

Length of Assignment: 8.5 Months

Work Hours: Monday & Friday 8:30-4:30pm, Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday 11am-7pm

• Associate's Degree required.
• A minimum of one (1) year experience working in a library, archives, or museum, preferably in an academic setting.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• A strong public service attitude and strong interpersonal skills to interact with colleagues in the WVU Libraries, the university and partner libraries.
• Must be dependable, adhering to scheduled shifts and promptly communicating any scheduling changes or relevant information to supervisor and/ or library units.
• Demonstrated knowledge of West Virginia, Appalachian, and American history
• Demonstrated application of historical research methods
• Knowledge of archival standards and best practices
• Advanced computer skills, including ability to use Microsoft Office applications, library databases and preservation software, and web-based applications.
• Ability to use microfilm readers, printers, and photocopiers
• Detail oriented with an ability to verify accuracy of information and resolve discrepancies
• Ability to work independently and solve problems
• Advanced organizational and time management skills
• Ability to write and communicate effectively
• Ability to understand, explain, and apply rules, policies, and procedures
• Ability to work collaboratively and interact with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.