Librarian 1 Reference and Legal

Librarian 1, Reference and Legal Research Librarian

P18: $58,222.21 - $84,763.38 (Salaries for internal candidates are determined by a promotional formula. Salaries for external candidates are determined up to step 4: $66,184.56, or dependent on qualifications)

Research Library of the New Jersey State Library

185 West State Street Trenton, NJ 08608

The New Jersey State Library, affiliated with Thomas Edison State University, connects people with information and resources through its service to NJ libraries, the state legislature and government employees, Thomas Edison State University staff and students, and registered borrowers. Thomas Edison State University provides distinctive undergraduate and graduate education for self-directed adults through flexible, high-quality, collegiate learning and assessment opportunities. One of New Jersey’s senior public institutions of higher education, the University offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in more than 100 areas of study. At Thomas Edison State University and the New Jersey State Library we embrace a diverse and dynamic workforce that drives innovation, learner success and organizational growth. We welcome you to apply to be a part of our team.

Summary:

The Research Library of the New Jersey State Library, affiliated with Thomas Edison State University, connects people with information and resources through its service to all branches of New Jersey state government, NJ libraries, Thomas Edison State University staff and students, and members of the public. The Research Library has a new opening for an entry level librarian.

Description:

Under the close supervision of a higher-level librarian, you will provide reference services to all three branches of New Jersey state government; students, staff and mentors of Thomas Edison State University, New Jersey libraries and the general public. You will conduct research across a wide range of subject areas, including business, New Jersey history, government information, and legal resources. You will work with a team of librarians providing legal research to support library users. You will promote discovery of digital and print collections using a variety of resources and different platforms. You may present programs and training classes for library users. The successful candidate will be tech-savvy and thrive in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

Note: The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed. 

Examples of Work:

- Provides reference service to all the communities served by the New Jersey State Library, using the full range of print and electronic resources in multiple subject areas, including history, government document and legal resources

- Participate in digital projects to highlight unique library collections and promote library services

- Prepares and delivers engaging/interesting presentations

- Creates and curates LibGuides to promote library collections and services

- Manages collection development funds within assigned collection subject areas

Prepares reports that communicate findings and recommendations for different internal and external audiences

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

- Experience providing research assistance in a special or academic library is preferred, particularly experience with government documents and legal research resources. 

- Experience supporting learners from varied backgrounds and varied technical abilities. 

- Basic knowledge of library cataloging, metadata and/or working with datasets.

- Ability to demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and the use of many sources to find solutions.

- Strong attention to detail, particularly when working with structured data, controlled vocabularies, and metadata/cataloging standards.

- Ability to work collaboratively and independently with minimal direct supervision.

- Flexible and able to prioritize multiple ongoing projects and research demands.

- Very comfortable working in digital environments. 

- Familiarity with library UX design principles and data visualization, with the ability to present statistics, web analytics, and other information in clear, meaningful formats using library-specific platforms and presentation software.

- Experience creating or editing webpages and other digital content.

- Ability to work collaboratively with library staff at all levels.

- Displays critical thinking/problem solving skills and 

- Reads, writes, speaks, understands, and communicates in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.

Desirable Skills:

- Familiarity with structured schema (ie, Dublin Core)

- Familiarity with government documents and/or legal resources

- Familiarity with content management systems (hosted or open source)

Requirements:

Education: A Master’s degree in Library or Information Sciences in a library program accredited by the American Library Association or from a New Jersey college Master’s program in Library Science that has been deemed acceptable by Thomas Edison State University.

License: Possession of or eligibility for a valid New Jersey license as a Professional Librarian. 

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52: 14-7 (L. 2011, Chapter 70), also known as the "New Jersey First Act," which became effective September 1, 2011, all persons newly hired by the College/New Jersey State Library on or after that date shall have one year from the date of employment to establish, and then maintain, principal residence in the State of New Jersey. Employees hired prior to September 1, 2011, who transfer from within the University/New Jersey State Library, or from another State of New Jersey appointing authority without a break in service greater than 7 days but who reside outside of the State of New Jersey, are not required to change their principal residence to New Jersey in order to comply with the Act. 

The New Jersey State Library, an affiliate of Thomas Edison State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer