[Asis-l] Reference/Electronic Services Librarian, Amherst College

[Susan Kimball]

Amherst College
Reference/Electronic Services Librarian

The Amherst College Library invites applications for the position of Reference/Electronic Services Librarian.  The successful candidate will assume responsibility for information technology as it directly affects service to library users and will implement technologies that best support teaching and research in the Amherst College Library. The Reference/Electronic Services Librarian will be a key member of the library instruction and Web site teams. S/he will be responsible for guiding and instructing users in the identification, retrieval, and evaluation of information in all formats and serve as liaison and selector for at least three academic departments, collaborate with the Systems Librarian, and coordinate with the campus Information Technology Department on digital academic projects. The library will count on this librarian to show enthusiasm and respect for all forms of research and scholarship, whether traditional or new.  We seek a librarian who will demonstrate engagement with student and faculty research and a keen awareness of the information needs of students in a liberal arts college. This position reports to the Head of Reference and Library Instruction.

Qualifications:  Must have a strong background in either the humanities or social sciences, as well as an MLS from an ALA accredited program.  Three to five years professional library experience required, with substantial experience with reference and/or instruction; collection development experience preferred. Expertise with current technologies, such as OpenURL, federated searching, XML, or personal broadcasting, absolutely essential. Must be able to tackle challenges in technology and public services with energy and enthusiasm.  Demonstrated ability to teach essential.  Ability to cooperate closely with colleagues from all library departments and with diverse undergraduates, faculty, staff, and college administrators essential.  Excellent oral and written communication skills required.  Working knowledge of at least one foreign language strongly preferred. 

This is a full-time position, with some evening and Sunday hours. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience, plus excellent benefits including TIAA-CREF.

Applications received before May 1, 2006, are guaranteed consideration.  Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Interested candidates should submit a letter of application, resume, and names of three references to: Library Search Committee, c/o Human Resources, Amherst College, AC #2204, Amherst, MA 01002-5000.
Amherst College is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and encourages women, persons of color, and persons with disabilities to apply. The administration, faculty, and student body are committed to attracting talented candidates from groups presently underrepresented on campus.