How to Apply
A cover letter and resume are important submissions for the hiring team to get a sense of your experience. In the cover letter, in two pages or less, please let us know how this role aligns with your career aspirations and skill set. Submit both a cover letter and a resume as one PDF file (due to system limitations).
Job Summary
The Bentley Historical Library seeks a full-time, user-oriented, flexible, and collaborative Reference Assistant to join our Reference Team. This position will report to the Archivist for Reference.
The Reference Team, a part of the Bentley's Public Engagement division, facilitates access to the library's collections through in-person research, remote reference requests, and patron requests for duplication. We support researchers of all backgrounds and experience levels, including students, academics, and community members. Our work, guided by a thoughtful and pragmatic approach to applying archival standards and the principles behind them, is informed by user needs.
Who We Are
The Bentley Historical Library, a vital part of the University of Michigan, is dedicated to collecting and promoting the study of the histories of the State of Michigan and the University of Michigan. Open to the public without fee, the Library welcomes researchers of all backgrounds. With over 11,000 research collections, including the papers of Michigan governors, records of student and faculty life, and the complete historical archive of Michigan's intercollegiate athletics, the Bentley provides a rich resource for historical research. The Library features a state-of-the-art conservation lab where expert archivists and conservators teach and preserve materials such as books, maps, and architectural drawings. Additionally, the historic Detroit Observatory on the University's central campus is a division of the Library, further enhancing its resources and outreach.
For more information, please visit our website: bentley.umich.edu
Responsibilities*
- Facilitate duplication services for archival material, including communicating with remote patrons, flagging requested material, coordinating efforts with duplication staff, and delivering orders
- Staff the reading room during assigned hours and contribute to a welcoming and research-conducive environment
- Support access to archival material by creating and processing requests, retrieving and reshelving material, and ensuring safe care and handling of material in the reading room
- Assist remote researchers via email by answering reference questions and sharing information about future visits
- Develop and maintain a working knowledge of the organization, care of library materials, library services, and programs
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor's degree or high school diploma with relevant experience in libraries or special collections
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and cooperatively, prioritize and complete tasks on time
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Proficiency with standard office technology and software
- Good investigative skills and strong attention to detail
- This position requires safely moving boxes and other materials, using proper techniques and equipment. You may need to push or pull carts. You also need to be able to go up and down ladders or stairs. Supports and accommodations are available if you need them.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
The salary range for this position is $42,000 - $44,000 annually. Candidates can expect to be paid a competitive and equitable salary. Factors used to determine salary include education level, experience, knowledge and skills for the position, and internal equity within the unit. All candidates are encouraged to discuss salary questions to honor alignment and transparency throughout the recruiting process.
The mode of work for this position is In-person/On-site, with occasional Saturday hours.
The salary for this position will be based on the selected candidate's education and experience.
Excellent benefits are available; for details, see http://benefits.umich.edu/
Union Affiliation
This position is included in the bargaining unit represented by the University Staff United (USU), which represents bargaining unit members in all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
Decision Making Process
Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and will continue until the position is filled.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.