Reference Librarian

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a motivated full-time, entry-level Reference Librarian to join our team in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. This hybrid position requires an on-site presence of 1–2 days per week, primarily to provide reference desk coverage in accordance with contract requirements.

Schedule: Full-Time | Hybrid | On-site 1–2 days per week, 8:45 a.m.–5:15 p.m.

This opportunity is ideal for individuals beginning their careers in library and information services, including current Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) students and recent graduates seeking hands-on professional experience in a specialized library environment.

The Reference Librarian will support daily library operations by providing reference and research assistance, participating in collection development, assisting with literature searches, and contributing to collaborative library projects. This position offers an opportunity to strengthen professional skills, gain practical experience, and work alongside experienced library professionals in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities:

• Provide reference services to patrons, including but not limited to research assistance, topical literature reviews, and general questions received via phone, email or in-person.
• Reference Desk Coverage: Provide in-person and remote reference and research assistance during designated hours.
• Actively participate in collection development activities including selecting and weeding materials as we as recommend and evaluate print and/or digital resources appropriate for the collection.
• Participate in collaborative projects such as an annual bibliometrics research, develop content for internal library website and other assigned tasks.
• Literature Searches: Conduct systematic literature searches and respond to complex reference inquiries.
• Other Duties: Perform additional duties as assigned by the project manager to support the library's mission and goals.

Requirements

Educational Requirements: Master’s degree in Library/Information Science from an institution accredited by the American Library Association or currently enrolled in such a program.

Required Experience: At least 2 years of experience providing reference and research services in a special or federal library.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Proficiency in using print and online resources and tools for reference and research purposes. Experience using Ebsco, Scopus, Web of Science, Nexis and/or Westlaw preferred.
• Proficiency/working knowledge of MS office, Outlook, Teams. Experience with SharePoint, OCLC and Sirsi preferred.
• Experience in selecting print and electronic resources for library collection development.
• Ability to respond to complex reference questions and conduct systematic literature searches.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Self-starter must be able to work independently as well as part of a team.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while providing reference desk coverage and performing computer-based research and administrative tasks.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or move library materials and supplies weighing up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to move throughout the library, bend, reach, stoop, and access materials on shelves at varying heights while assisting patrons and performing collection development and weeding activities.

Benefits:

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.