Research Center Page

chicago history society•Chicago, IL

5h•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Center Page retrieves and re-files research collection materials, including published material, archives and manuscripts, photos, architectural drawings and other related collections. The Page also provides essential support for public service and collections-related activities within the Abakanowicz Research Center (ARC), such as photocopy/scanning materials from the research collection for patrons, and the broader Collections department. The Research Center Page primarily supports access to the research collection by retrieving and re-filing research collection materials and serving collection materials to researchers. The page will also instruct researchers on how to use and handle the materials, all with the overall goal of enhancing the reputation of the Abakanowicz Research Center and helping the Museum achieve its mission.

Requirements

College degree preferred; some college required
Work experience in a library or archives preferred
Attention to detail
Ability to work with speed and under pressure
Ability and patience to work with fragile special collection materials
Ability to ascend and descend stairs
Ability to lift and carry boxes weighing up to 40 lbs.
Available to work Saturdays from September through May, 18 hours/week year-round, adjusting schedule from June through August
Commitment to the mission, values, and programs of the Chicago History Museum

Nice To Haves

College degree preferred
Work experience in a library or archives preferred

Responsibilities

Retrieve collection items from designated storage areas
Serve collection items to researchers in the ARC and to Museum staff, interns and volunteers
Photocopy and scan materials from the photograph, manuscript, and book holdings for ARC patrons; process payments in cash or by credit card
Describe to researchers how to use and handle materials
Instruct users, as needed, about the ARC’s self-service equipment such as the microfilm readers and scanners, and Open Public Access Computers (OPACs) for searching the catalog and subscription newspaper databases
Re-file and re-shelve research collection items from storage and reference collection items accurately and efficiently
Work with speed and under pressure
Work with fragile special collection materials
Ascend and descend stairs
Lift and carry boxes weighing up to 40 lbs
Work Saturdays from September through May, 18 hours/week year-round, adjusting schedule from June through August
Assist Research Collections and Research Services staff with collection projects that enhance catalog records and help address the Research Collections backlog and overflow, as directed
Respond to email inquiries under staff direction
Enhance and edit research guides under staff direction
Assist at Reference Desk when needed to check in and orient researchers arriving in the ARC