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Assistant Reference Librarian Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

$70K/yr

The schedule is 35 hours per week and reports directly to the Assistant Branch Manager. This is a ... Provides reference and reader's advisory services for all age groups utilizing print and electronic ...

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Assistant Reference Librarian information

What is the difference between Assistant Reference Librarian vs Reference Librarian?

AspectAssistant Reference LibrarianReference Librarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)Master's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)
Work EnvironmentPublic, academic, or special libraries assisting patrons with researchPublic, academic, or special libraries providing reference services and research support
Job ResponsibilitiesSupporting reference services, helping patrons locate resources, and assisting with researchLeading reference services, conducting research consultations, and managing information resources

The main difference is that Assistant Reference Librarians typically support reference services and assist patrons under supervision, while Reference Librarians often take on more independent roles, managing complex research inquiries and leading reference activities. Both roles require a Master's in Library Science and are common in similar library settings.

What is an assistant reference librarian?

Assistant Reference Librarians are library professionals who help patrons locate information, conduct research, and use library resources effectively. They support reference librarians by answering questions, providing guidance on using catalogs and databases, and assisting with research projects. Their duties often include organizing materials, teaching users about library technology, and sometimes planning educational programs. They play a key role in ensuring that library visitors have a positive and productive experience.

How does an assistant reference librarian collaborate with other library staff to support patrons?

Assistant Reference Librarians work closely with librarians, circulation staff, and technical services teams to ensure patrons receive comprehensive support. They often coordinate to locate resources, develop instructional materials, and assist with research queries. Regular communication and teamwork help maintain seamless service, especially during busy periods or when handling complex information requests. This collaboration not only enhances the patron experience but also provides valuable opportunities for learning and professional development within the library system.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant reference librarian?

To thrive as an Assistant Reference Librarian, you need a solid understanding of research methods, information retrieval, and a degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with library management systems, online databases, and digital cataloging tools is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills help you effectively assist patrons and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies ensure efficient access to information, high-quality patron support, and the smooth operation of library services.
What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Librarian jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Reference Librarian jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Florida? For Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Reference Librarian jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Assistant Reference Librarian jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Assistant Reference Librarian job openings:

Reference Librarian & Assistant Professor of Law Library

Barry University

Orlando, FL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Barry University rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Summary

The Reference Librarian & Assistant Professor of Law Library is responsible for the legal research instruction to all Barry Law students, teaching classes in the LLM and/or JD program, providing workshops, and instructing small groups and individuals on any topic of legal research. Additionally, this position assists law faculty with educational technology, scholarship submission and promotion, and identifying research materials. This position provides both traditional and virtual reference and research instructions to all library patrons to include students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the bar.

The Reference Librarian & Assistant Professor is both an administrative and tenure track position. However, while on the tenure track, this position is not a member of the law school's faculty.

Essential Functions

Provides reference and research assistance to library patrons:

  • Consults with patrons in person or via telephone, email, or video conferencing

  • Conducts reference interviews to determine the exact nature of the question

  • Advises patrons about useful resources to answer the question

  • Teaches the patron how to use the resources, if necessary

  • Responsible for specific reference shifts as assigned by the Associate Director

Provides legal research and legal information literacy education to the Barry Law community:

  • Conducts guest lectures in the first year Legal Research & Writing classes and other classes as requested by faculty

  • Plans and creates research lessons using lib-guides, workshops, and video

  • Provides one-on-one instruction to students and faculty

  • Stays abreast of changes in legal technology

Participates in Faculty Liaison Program:

  • Serves as point-of-contact to the library for assigned faculty members

  • Assists and instructs faculty members with the use of Canvas, video conferencing, and other instructional technology

  • Consults with faculty members about scholarship agenda and necessary research resources and help locating materials

  • Consults with and trains faculty Research Assistants

Teaching:

  • Teaches one or two graduate-level for-credit courses in the LLM and/or JD program

Databases and Artificial Intelligence:

  • Develops instruction and programming focusing on artificial intelligence and legal technology that supports the Barry University School of Law

  • Evaluates new artificial intelligence and legal technology products and services, recommends adoption of products and services, and serves as a local expert for faculty and students at the School of Law

Institutional Repository/Faculty Scholarship:

  • Trains each journal's incoming editorial board on library resources and services

  • Maintains the currency and accuracies of faculty scholarship uploaded to institutional repository

  • Further develops new and innovative ways to promote faculty scholarship (i.e. library website, blogging, working with marketing)

  • Works with faculty to assist with submitting scholarship for publication (i.e. Scholastica, SSRN, etc.)

Other duties as assigned by the Dean of Law School, Law Library Director, Associate Director of Law Library, or Head of Technical Services.

Requirements/Qualifications

  • Both a Juris Doctor and an MLS degree are required.

  • One to three (1-3) years of related experience required.

  • This position requires a comprehensive knowledge of legal research and resources, expert skill level with Westlaw and Lexis, and an expert ability to learn and teach other legal information technologies, such as HeinOnline and ProQuest.

  • Ability to consult with patrons, analyze advanced problems, and determine most appropriate resources to solve such problems.

  • Ability to complete projects independently.

  • High degree of proficiency in word processing, spreadsheets, power point, email, and database management.

  • Ability to operate basic library equipment, such as computers, printer/copiers, and monitors.

  • Ability to converse and correspond comfortably with highly educated students and faculty.

  • Ability to demonstrate outstanding customer service skills when consulting with library patrons, including patience and friendliness.

  • Ability to maintain calm when dealing with challenging patrons or situations.

Benefits: Barry University offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees that includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, tuition assistance, paid time off and work/life balance initiatives such as wellness programs, spirituality in the workplace, and training and development.

Barry University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.


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