Bibliographer for History and Sociology

The University of Chicago Library invites applicants for the position of Bibliographer for History and Sociology.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced individual with both a deep understanding of the field of history as well as interest in and knowledge of current and future trends in research, excited to develop and expand rich collections and outreach efforts in support of faculty and students.

This position offers the opportunity to work with one of the strongest History and Sociology research collections in the nation. The Bibliographer will work closely with vibrant and creative faculty in the History and Sociology departments, whose interests and research are wide-ranging, interdisciplinary and ground-breaking. In addition, the Bibliographer will take the lead within the Library in supporting these key fields. The Bibliographer is also an important part of a collective effort to support existing and new scholarly communities and means of communication.

The Library provides a stimulating research environment in which to work, where browsing library stacks remains a priority along with e-resources and digitization projects. The recently opened Joe and Rika Mansueto Library, which combines an underground automated storage and retrieval system with a capacity of 3.5 million volume equivalents with a grand reading room and state-of-the-art digitization and conservation laboratories, allows onsite access to the Library’s collections and browsable space, as well as the creation of new teaching and collaborative spaces, in the Joseph Regenstein Library.

OVERVIEW OF RESPONSIBILITIES: The Bibliographer is responsible for outreach and collection development for the Library’s collections in History and Sociology, developing, managing, and promoting Library collections in all formats. The Bibliographer has primary responsibility for the United States and Canada, Western Europe, Oceania and Latin America, and will work closely with area studies specialists for South Asia, the Middle East, Slavic, East European & Central Asian Studies, East Asia and sub-Saharan Africa to ensure complete coverage in those areas. In addition, the Bibliographer coordinates outreach, instruction and reference for History and Sociology. Working closely with Library and University departments and programs to support the teaching and research needs of faculty and students, the Bibliographer will develop a program of library services that connects scholars with content in an increasing array of formats.

For additional information about the collections:
http://guides.lib.uchicago.edu/amhist
http://guides.lib.uchicago.edu/eurohist

QUALIFICATIONS: Education: A graduate library degree from an accredited library school with graduate work in History, or a Ph.D. in History or another history-related field is required. Graduate training in Sociology is an asset. Experience: Evidence of specialized bibliographic and reference work in History is essential. Evidence of specialized bibliographic and reference work in Sociology is strongly preferred. Significant experience in a research library performing collection development, reference, and outreach is required. A demonstrated knowledge of current trends and methodologies in scholarship and higher education as they relate to the use of libraries and primary sources is required. Skills: Candidates must demonstrate an ability to work effectively with faculty, students and staff and possess excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communications skills. A high degree of computer literacy and a demonstrated interest in the application of information technologies in scholarly research are required. Languages: Fluent knowledge of at least one western language other than English is required, with French, German, and Spanish being the most essential. Fluency in multiple western languages other than English or proven experience working with multiple Romance and Germanic languages in reference and selection activities is required.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: Appointment salary based on qualifications and experience. Benefits include retirement plan, insurance, and paid time off. There is a tuition benefit plan for college age and younger children.
To apply for this position, submit a profile, cover letter, CV, and reference contact information to https://academiccareers.uchicago.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=52098

Applications received by March 30, 2012 will be assured consideration.

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.