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Research and Instruction Librarian, School of the Art Institute of Chicago- Chicago, IL

Introduction
For more than 150 years, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) has been a leader in educating the world’s most influential artists, designers and scholars. Located in downtown Chicago with a fine arts graduate program consistently ranking among the top four graduate fine arts programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, SAIC provides an interdisciplinary approach to art and design as well as world-class resources, including the Art Institute of Chicago museum, on-campus galleries and state-of-the-art facilities. SAIC’s undergraduate, graduate and post-baccalaureate students have the freedom to take risks and create the bold ideas that transform Chicago and the world—as seen through notable alumni and faculty such as Michelle Grabner, David Sedaris, Elizabeth Murray, Richard Hunt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Cynthia Rowley, Nick Cave, and LeRoy Neiman.

Position Summary
As part of a collaborative and dynamic team at the John M. Flaxman Library, the Research + Instruction Librarian performs highly specialized duties in the areas of library Research, Public Services, and Instruction, to support and fully engage in the educational mission of the School and the success of its students. The Research + Instruction Librarian builds relationships with faculty, students, and staff to support their information needs; serves as a liaison to several departments, develops and teaches a variety of instructional programs, and provides general research help and guides library users in identifying, accessing, and evaluating information in all formats. We’re looking for someone with a commitment to art and design education; and a commitment to and demonstrated knowledge of diversity, inclusion, and equity issues as related to research, instruction, and user-centered public service.  

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Public Service:

·         Provides all forms of research and reference services for students, faculty, and other library patrons, including but not limited to research consultations, in-person and email reference assistance, and general public services at all main service points.

·         Engages and participates in ongoing assessment of library collections, policies, and services.

·         Collaborates with colleagues throughout the Library + Special Collections and across campus to optimize the user experience in relation to library collections and services.

·         In collaboration with the Research and Access Services Librarian and staff, develops and maintains internal and external communications and statistical data.

·         In the absence of Research and Access Services Librarian and other staff, provides oversight and supervision to student workers or practicum/interns as assigned.

Teaching + Learning:

·         Works closely with the research and instruction team to design and develop in-class and other forms of instructional programs and services.

·         Designs and produces a variety of instructional and information literacy-related materials.

·         Engages faculty and other staff to integrate information literacy concepts and skills into the curriculum at SAIC.

·         Performs highly specialized, professional duties in the areas of library Research, Public Service, and Instruction, to support and fully engage in the educational mission of the School and the success of its students.

·         Participates in ongoing assessment of information literacy instruction programs and student learning.

·         Proactively engages the School’s agenda for student success.

Outreach + Engagement:

·         Develops activities, outreach tools, or programs that support social justice, equity, inclusion, and diversity as outlined in SAIC policies and strategic plans.

·         Designs and implements outreach initiatives that actively promote and increase awareness of collections, resources, and services to faculty, students, and key constituents.

·         Serves on Library + Special Collections working groups and committees and represents the library through the participation in other internal and external committees, organizations, and associations.

·         Actively engages faculty, students, and staff in assigned subject disciplines and/or departments in order to develop strong working relationships and integrate the library resources and collections in curricula and research projects.

Qualifications

·         Master’s degree in Library or Information Science or related field.

·         Background in the arts or humanities. 

·         Some experience working in a library, archive, or similar institution.

·         Demonstrable knowledge of current issues and best practices for library Research, Reference and Instruction.

·         A strong commitment to excellence in public service and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative and culturally diverse environment.

·         Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

·         Knowledge of vendors and delivery systems for current reference resources.

·         Understanding of instructional methods and measures used by libraries.

·         Proficiency using standard office software, web services, and networked environments.

·         Proficiency using social media relevant to library outreach and instruction.

·         Ability to work effectively within a team or independently.

Preferred

·         Professional experience in a similar position, especially at a school of art, design, or architecture.

·         Proficiency using integrated library systems (ILS), OCLC, and/or other standard library technologies.

·         Experience working in art- or design-related fields, especially at an independent, non-profit college of art and design.

·         Teaching experience.

·         Degree(s) in the visual arts, design, or architecture.

The Art Institute of Chicago is an equal opportunity, equal access employer fully committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workplace.