The Morgan Library & Museum

 

Head of Reader Services

(Full-Time)

 

Job Responsibilities

 

The Morgan Library & Museum seeks an innovative, dynamic professional for the position of Head of Reader Services. Reporting to the Director of Research Services, the Head of Reader Services administers the Sherman Fairchild Reading Room, with primary responsibility for supervising the scholarly use of the collection by researchers.

 

This position will lead the Reading Room in providing the highest quality of service to researchers while ensuring the preservation and security of the collections. Opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration, including new and continuing automation projects, will require a creative, visionary approach to Library Services operations. Additionally, the Head of Reader Services will:

 

·         Hire, train schedule and evaluate performance of Reading Room staff and volunteers

·         Ensure secure and careful handling of rare materials by readers and staff

·         Evaluate prospective researchers’ qualifications for use of rare collections

·         Provide reference assistance to researchers, the public, and staff, based on knowledge of the Morgan’s collections, in collaboration with curators when appropriate

·         Instruct researchers in the use of the Morgan’s online catalogue, Corsair; catalogues; and finding aids

·         Collaborate with other Morgan staff in establishing and implementing procedures in accordance with the Morgan's commitment to service to researchers.

·         Maintain and analyze Reading Room and circulation records for statistical purposes

·         Participate in monitoring the physical environment housing the collection

 

Qualifications

 

·         MLS degree from an ALA-accredited program, BA in Humanities required

·         Minimum 5 years experience in special collections, with increasingly responsible supervisory and management experience

·         Acute security awareness and judgment

·         Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, including demonstrated ability to work successfully in a collegial environment

·         Demonstrated proficiency and capabilities with relevant information technology applications, databases, and websites, including experience in managing technological change

·         Demonstrated knowledge, understanding, and ability to maintain an awareness of current issues in special collections relating to access, security and digitization

·         General knowledge of conservation and preservation practices

·         Reading knowledge of at least one modern European language required, French or German preferred. Latin or Greek desirable

·         Able to work for extended periods at a computer workstation, lift moderately heavy boxes and books, move items to and from shelves, climb ladders, wheel carts with collection items through the facility, and tolerate moderate levels of dust during movement of objects

 

Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits.

To apply: Interested applicants should e-mail cover letter with salary requirements and resume to:

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