University of Pittsburgh
PUBLIC SERVICES LIBRARIAN DIVERSITY RESIDENT PROGRAM

University Library System

ULS PUBLIC SERVICES LIBRARIAN DIVERSITY RESIDENT PROGRAM
2008-2010

Overview:
The ULS Public Services Librarian Diversity Resident Program offers post-graduate candidates from underrepresented racial/ethnic groups an opportunity for gaining valuable, "hands-on" experience in a public services position within a large academic research library system. The goal of this two-year program is to increase the number of underrepresented racial/ethnic minorities within academic librarianship by providing the practical experience critical for successful entrance into the profession.

Program Structure:
The successful incumbent will receive a 2-year faculty librarian appointment (Librarian I) as a Public Services Librarian at the Information Sciences Library, a departmental library within the University Library System. Under the guidance of the Head of the IS Library, the incumbent will participate effectively in the public services operation of the library and will be regularly scheduled at the public service desks. Duties include: actively assisting faculty, students, staff and other library users by providing reference and information service during scheduled hours using print, non-print and electronic sources; providing assistance in additional library functions including circulation, e-reference, reserves and other patron service activities. As a member of a small and busy team, will be expected to maintain flexibility and reprioritize tasks as necessary in response to patron needs.

The incumbent will work closely with the Head of the Information Sciences Library and the ULS Coordinator of Library Instruction to develop and deliver library instruction to groups and individuals in a very active library instruction program. The incumbent will also work with the ULS Coordinator for Digital Reference to deliver reference services to the University community through chat and email functions.

Hours for the Fall and Spring terms will generally be Monday-Thursday, 11:00 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Time will be split between the Information Sciences Library and the Hillman Library Reference Department. Work will include reference desk, information literacy sessions, special projects, and other activities as appropriate (e.g. development and training sessions). The option of working 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. is available during the Summer term. As with all Public Services librarians, this position will participate in rotational weekend coverage.

The ULS Head of Library Human Resources will act as the program coordinator. The incumbent is expected to maintain satisfactory performance for the duration of the appointment.

Qualifications:
To qualify, applicant must be a recent graduate from an ALA-accredited master's program, possess a strong interest in developing a career in academic librarianship, demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills, demonstrate the ability to work independently as well as in a team, be a member of an underrepresented group (African American, Asian American, Latino/Hispanic American, or Native American), and be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Salary and Benefits:
$30,000/year. Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance; TIAA/CREF, Vanguard; and tuition assistance. Financial support is also provided for one professional conference attendance per year.

Environment:
Founded in 1787, the University of Pittsburgh (http://www.pitt.edu/) is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States. Today Pitt is an internationally recognized center of learning and research, strong in the arts and sciences and the professions. Pitt serves approximately 32,000 students, including more than 9,000 graduate students, in the 16 schools at the Pittsburgh campus and the four regional campuses.

The University of Pittsburgh's University Library System is a member of the Association of Research Libraries and contains over 4.4 million volumes, 37,000 subscriptions, and 4 million pieces of microforms. The University Library System (ULS) consists of 18 libraries and employs 78 faculty librarians and 136 staff. In addition to the ULS, the University of Pittsburgh includes libraries for the health sciences and law school.

The city of Pittsburgh is located in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the United States, Pittsburgh is recognized for its natural beauty and unique blend of cultural, education, and technological resources. Additional information on the city of Pittsburgh can be found at: http://www.pittsburgh.net/

To Apply:
Interested applicants are asked to submit a resume, the names/numbers of three professional references, and a 1-2 page letter describing their interest and aspirations in academic librarianship, with particular emphasis on public services. Application materials should be addressed to: William Gentz, Head, Library Human Resources, 271 Hillman Library, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260.

Application deadline: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled.

The University of Pittsburgh is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution