Position Title: Archives & Research Associate
Department: Staley Library
Supervisor: Access Services Coordinator & Archivist
Incumbent: Todd Rudat (since October 2005)

Position Summary:

Under the general guidance of the University Archivist, administers the daily physical aspects of the library's University Archives, which includes archival and historical materials such as books, manuscripts, photographs, and recorded sound. Assists with the collection of archival materials from other areas of the University. At the discretion of the archivist, provides some archival reference services and acts as an information resource with regard to the contents of archival and historical materials. Interacts with all campus constituencies.

At the discretion of the archivist, as Research Associate provides general reference services to library patrons during morning hours. This consists of directing users to appropriate resources as they begin their research, providing introductory reference services by phone, and consulting with and/or referring users to Research Librarians when appropriate.

At the discretion of the archivist, provides circulation services by acting as a back-up to Circulation/Reserves staff during some opening and morning hours and/or through lunch.

Position Responsibilities:

As Archives Associate:

• Working closely with the University Archivist, create and maintain the best possible storage conditions for the library's archival and historical collections.
• Working closely with the University Archivist, propose and, as approved, implement storage and preservation measures that will improve on current practices for those collections.
• Working closely with the University Archivist, plan for the collection of appropriate archival and historical materials from other offices, departments and units of the University, and assure routine follow-up on this planning.
• Evaluate, arrange, process, and describe archival materials according to accepted archival standards.
• Assist researchers in person, on the phone, and/or through correspondence, with Millikin University historical research questions and projects.
• Act as an information resource to Millikin University publications and departments for historical and archival information.
• Select and edit cataloging records and call numbers for special projects, as needed.

As Research Associate:

• Provide guidance to appropriate resources, both print and electronic, as dictated by research questions.
• Provide assistance in utilizing appropriate resources for locating information relevant to patrons’ information needs.
• Assess user needs and questions and refers to appropriate library staff as necessary.
• Refer students to librarians when research questions indicate.
• Consult regularly with librarians about research questions and interactions to review and/or determine appropriate responses.
• Keep other reference staff apprised and aware of recurring assignments as observed at the Research Assistance desk.
• Provide Circulation Desk assistance on occasion as needed.

As needed, some days may be scheduled to open the library and prepare it for the day's services. At such time, until relieved by other staff member:

• Assure that optimum services are provided at the Circulation Desk.
• Provide work assignments and supervisory guidance for student staff as needed.
• Supervise shelving of books (including Reference), journals, and newspapers, primarily through delegation to student staff. 
• Provide assistance to public in use of microfilm readers and photocopiers. 
• Provide basic reference assistance to students, faculty and staff, including appropriate referrals to librarians on another day.
• Assure the security and proper function of the building at all times.

As a member of the library staff:

• Attend regularly scheduled library staff meetings.
• Within parameters of position responsibilities, propose new or changed policies and procedures to accomplish own responsibilities, related operations, and Library mission.
• Support overall Library operations and services through projects and other duties as assigned.
• Actively support Library colleagues, Library service goals, and College mission.   

Requirements:

• College degree or equivalent is strongly preferred; two years of college is the minimum educational requirement.
• Work experience with, and appreciation of, archival and historical materials preferred.
• Work experience in a library preferred, and in an academic setting desirable.
• Some experience with providing library reference or similar information services preferred.
• Must be meticulous and thorough with details, and show persistence and timely follow-through.
• Computer aptitude and proficiency required, preferably including working experience with library databases and other electronic resources.
• Must work equally well independently and collaboratively, with a clear understanding of when each is appropriate.
• Tact, kindness and good humor in dealing with public and colleagues is crucial.
• Good interpersonal, verbal and written skills important; service orientation essential; comfort with flexibility and change.