Reference Specialist

Under general supervision of the Resource Center Manager, this position has the responsibility for organizing and implementing the research/reference activities at the Atwood Resource Center. The Reference Specialist performs library and reference services and assists in planning and coordinating research visits. A primary responsibility is to administer and implement the image rights and reproduction process.  The person in this position serves as the primary guide to patrons in locating requested information so that they become informed users of the Center's historical materials including historic photographs, rare books, and printed and electronic resources.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned to meet business needs.

• Administer and implement image rights and reproduction process, including managing the museum's photographic assets to protect the integrity of the collection.  Includes corresponding with patrons, locating images, completing contracts, facilitating image scanning, and invoice generation and tracking.
• Utilizing standard archival and library research strategies guide, and/or instruct patrons to locate requested information through consultation of diverse print and electronic reference resources and the Resource Center's historical materials and book collection.
• Through carefully formulated and open-ended questions that focus on the patron's specific wants or problems, elicit pertinent information to begin the research process.
• Guide patrons in the use of public computers.
• Guide patrons in making effective use of the Resource Center facilities and materials; advise on Center regulations and procedures.
• Routinely use a full range of word processing, database and spreadsheet software applications.
• Receive telephone and email inquiries; ascertain patron's needs and provide research services as needed.
• Respond to patron/staff inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information in an efficient and timely manner.
• Maintain knowledge of reference databases, and other collection reference sources in order to research, guide, instruct, and assist patrons; maintain a familiarity with other library collections.

Non-Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with Resource Center inventory as requested.
• Under the supervision of the Archivist, assist with collection processing.
• Maintain and update TMS records as requested.
• Create and distribute bibliographies and reference guides to promote the collections of the Atwood Resource Center; present tours as requested. Work with the Librarian and Photo Archivist to promote reference resources to various community groups.
• Work evening and weekend hours as assigned.
• Adhere to safe work practices and procedures; participate in maintaining Resource Center security.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings; attend workshops, conferences and classes to increase professional knowledge; serve on committees as assigned.
• Assume responsibility when the Librarian or Photo Archivist is absent.

Knowledge/Skills/Qualifications:
Knowledge of:

• Alaska history, culture and literature
• Methods and techniques of research
• The operation of electronic reference tools including on-line databases
• A variety of computer software programs including email.

Ability to:

• Speak to and instruct individuals and groups of people
• Establish rapport and interact professionally and sensitively with resource center patrons of all ages and abilities
• Plan and organize work to meet schedules and time lines
• Convey Center policy and procedures to staff and patrons
• Maintain accurate statistics and reports
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Work effectively as part of a group

Experience:

• Two years working in a museum or library requiring interaction with the public.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in library science, English, history or anthropology.  Master's Degree in Library Science or Archival studies preferred.
• Evidence of strong public service orientation
• Evidence of excellent communication, listening, and interpersonal skills.

Employee Expectations:

• As an AMA employee, the incumbent is expected to model the following traits:
• Foster and maintain open communication and collaboration and actively engage in the exchange of ideas and maintaining constructive relationships.
• Initiative and creativity in all aspects of the position.
• Lead by example by maintaining a high standard of professional ethics and conduct at all times.
• Treat everyone with dignity and respect at all times.
• Support and uphold the policies, procedures of the AMA as directed by the Museum Director and Board of Directors.