Research Services and Student Life Archivist – University of MN Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota Libraries seeks an outgoing and collaborative individual for the position of Research Services and Student Life Archivist in the University of Minnesota Archives. This outreach-oriented role connects students, staff, faculty, and the diverse communities at the University of Minnesota and people from across the state and internationally to the archival collections. The position works as part of a public-facing team to provide reference, instruction, and outreach services for the University Archives. The role oversees workflows and procedures to improve efficiency and quality of in-person and remote access to archival collections for all types of research use. Using a suite of digital programs, including the University Digital Conservancy (UDC), an institutional repository; UMedia, a collection of digitized primary source materials; and a growing digital records and web archives program, the position manages digital resources and contributes new content for ready-reference access.  The Research Services and Student Life Archivist is an expert in reference services and archives-based instruction and seeks opportunities to develop student life collections.

The University of Minnesota Archives is one of 15 distinct collecting areas in a highly collaborative Archives and Special Collections department of the University Libraries. The position reports to the University Archivist and Director of the University Digital Conservancy.

Responsibilities

• Leads research and reference services in a public-facing, team-based institutional archives that provides in-person and remote services to all members of the University community and to a broader state and global community.
• Builds archival reference resources, including website content, physical and digital ready-reference materials, incoming paper and digital serial publications, metadata for digitized materials, and University minutes and reports for timely inclusion in the University Digital Conservancy.
• Engages with faculty and students to foster and support the inclusion of archival and primary source-related learning and instruction into the curriculum and course assignments.
• In partnership with the Institutional Archivist, develops collecting guidelines and description practices for documenting student life through collaborating with student-focused offices, student organizations, student leaders, student-produced publications, and alumni.
• Integrates collection content into exhibitions, public presentations, digital exhibits, blogs, and social media.
• Compiles and analyzes reference, research, and instruction metrics for monthly and annual reports.
• Supervises student employees and interns.

Institutional Context

The University Libraries are an integral part of campus life. This position advances a deeper understanding of institutional history by expanding access to our special and distinctive collections. The role supports the Libraries’ Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility commitment of creating a powerful learning community and welcoming spaces where all can achieve their personal and professional goals. The Libraries develops and supports innovative services, collections, and partnerships that engage 50,000 students, 4,000 faculty, and 16,000 staff in the pursuit of knowledge. As the state’s only research library, it reaches well beyond campus borders to develop and deliver high-demand services and programs to 5.6 million Minnesota residents, 485,000 alumni, and a global community of scholars. The Libraries is known for its advanced web services, significant collaborative digital library development, and a record of innovative partnerships. Its archives, special collections, and rare resources are among the largest in the U.S.

Required

• American Library Association accredited Master’s degree in Library/Information Science or Archives or a combination of advanced degree and relevant experience.
• Experience providing information services.
• Demonstrated ability to teach or provide instruction.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and in cooperation with colleagues in a service-oriented, collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion through working respectfully and effectively with individuals to foster an inclusive community.

Preferred

• Facility in use of technology and applications in archival collections.
• Demonstrated creativity, initiative, self-direction, and innovative thinking.
• Experience building archival collections.
• Experience working with digital collections.
• Experience in managing projects.
• Experience supervising students or interns.

This is a full-time, 12-month, annual renewable appointment, academic professional position with appointment at the Assistant Librarian rank. The annual salary minimum for this position is $57,500. The Libraries offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits and substantial moving allowance.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Please attach the following documents in Word or PDF Format:  (DO NOT copy and paste.)

• Resume.  
• Cover Letter (identify cover letter with UL431).  
• Names, addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of three current references. 

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your “My Activities” page and uploading documents there.  Review of applications begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University’s Administrative Policy: COVID-19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit:  https://safe-campus.umn.edu/return-campus/get-the-vax

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.