Research Services Specialist: University Libraries - UTK

University of Tennessee•Knoxville, TN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for a complex range of duties to meet the University's educational, research, and outreach goals by providing and directing research service for campus and community researchers both virtually and in-person. This individual enhances the user experience for Special Collections patrons by providing expert, high-level research assistance and front-line public services. Facilitates access and security for archival materials, rare books, and university archives. Analyzes information needs and applies specialized knowledge to guide resource use. This position requires a high level of independent decision-making related to interpreting and implementing library policies and procedures to ensure the preservation and security of rare materials and being able to address any emergency that may arise. The position also contributes to research and outreach goals through the creation and maintenance of digital reference tools and resources.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree
Experience working in a library, museum, or archives environment or completion of related coursework.
Demonstrated customer service experience.
Ability to work effectively both independently and in a collaborative team environment.
Ability to work well with faculty, staff, students, donors, and members of the general public.
Ability and willingness to learn new technologies, tasks, and procedures.
Ability to make sound decisions and solve problems with creativity and flexibility.
Ability to balance multiple tasks, set priorities and meet deadlines.
Ability to work flexibly and creatively in a changing and fast-paced environment.
Demonstrated initiative, flexibility, and ability to work effectively to complete assignments as scheduled and assigned.
Effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree in Information Science or related field in Humanities, Museum Studies, ect.
Experience using research strategies and techniques.
Knowledge of research methods and tools, such as online databases, web-based resources, and other references.
Working knowledge and understanding of best practices related to the daily operations of a special collections or archives.
Working knowledge and understanding of archives information management and reading room software (e.g. Archives Space and Aeon).

Responsibilities

Works regular shifts in the reading room assisting researchers at a variety of skill levels (students, faculty, community users, and scholars). Opens and closes the reading room and prepares for scheduled researchers.
Assists researchers with Aeon (special collections reading room management system) to create accounts, schedule appointments and request materials.
Monitors research requests and inquiries through the departmental email accounts and LibAnswers.
Determines appropriate library resources to use and designs research strategies to meet those needs. Makes decisions as to extent of research that can be completed by staff and when researchers must visit the reading room to consult collections.
Coordinates requests for archival materials and deliveries to/from off site storage and closed stacks.
Interprets library and university policies, procedures, and regulations to staff and patrons, using judgment to create exceptions, as appropriate; mediates and resolves conflicts.
Develops/maintains research tools including research guides (LibGuides).
In collaboration with supervisor, updates, edits, and creates entries for Volopedia.
Processes incoming University Archives serials and prepares for ingestion into Trace.
Assists with development and implementation of procedures for the use of LibAnswers.
Monitors the use of Special Collections materials and spaces according to professional standards and best practices.
Assists with monitoring of reading room desk shift schedule and coordination of student schedules.
Provides guidance on the appropriate use of materials in regards to preservation and security concerns.
Enforces established policies in regards to food, drink, equipment, and personal items in Special Collections.
Assists with scheduled events in Special Collections including set up and clean up as needed.
Actively contributes to departmental activities, including team meetings, departmental planning, and other UT Libraries, and university committees and initiatives.
Completes 1 to 3 hours of professional development each month, totaling 32+ hours/year to grow and develop skills in areas of job responsibility and library need.
Strives to foster an inclusive and accessible learning environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
Regularly works Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM. May need to occasionally work during an evening or weekend event.
Provides back up for Digital Services Specialist when they are unavailable.