 |
 |
Research + Instruction Librarian (Sciences) Full-Time Position Description The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) invites applications for the full-time position of Research + Instruction Librarian with a focus on the sciences, to start in August 2017. We recognize diversity and inclusivity as fundamental to our learning community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experiences, scholarship, service, and/or professional practice has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. In this newly conceived entry-level position, the Librarian will engage in research, reference, collection development, and instruction, with an emphasis in the sciences (broadly defined but with a particular emphasis on the natural sciences, biological sciences, and physical sciences). The Librarian will work collaboratively to shape and implement multiple literacy practices within the library and on campus. In this capacity, the Librarian will have an affinity for, experience in, and/or an articulated understanding of broad interrelated and creative thinking about art, design, and science information and practice. The Librarian will be based in Fleet Library and will work in collaboration with library staff as well as other colleagues in the other units within the Dean of Libraries’ interdisciplinary community – The Nature Lab, Campus Exhibitions, and the Writing Center. We see the Library as a laboratory and platform for creativity and ideas. We seek to create an environment that understands and respects the past while inventing the future. Our approach to research, instruction, and collection development emphasizes strong disciplinary focus with an interdisciplinary and intersectional lens. As a member of the Research and Instruction team, the Science Librarian engages in research and professional development, library instruction, research assistance, and collection development related to the sciences – with an emphasis on the intersection of science and art practices, broadly defined. In addition, the candidate will engage in outreach to the RISD community – encouraging and creating connections across campus – as well as chair a library committee based on skills and interests. This is a newly imagined position and it reports to the Dean of Libraries. Required Qualifications The ideal candidate is an individual interested in defining, experimenting with, and building information systems, collections, and instruction related to and inspired by the sciences as well as art and design. We are seeking a colleague who has demonstrated (in scholarship, community engagement, education, or practice) creativity and curiosity within the field of librarianship. -ALA-accredited MLS/MLIS or an equivalent combination of education and experience. -Degree (or relevant experience) in a scientific discipline – with particular emphasis in biology, mathematics, design science, or the physical sciences. -One to three years professional experience providing research, reference, instruction, or public service in a library, laboratory, or research setting. -Strong interpersonal and communication skills are critical, as is an ability to think critically and articulate ideas clearly. We are seeking an ideas person who enjoys working on a team and is generous and open to thinking that challenges their own. -Ability to work collegially and generously within a small team that is flexible and extremely responsive to users. Preferred Qualifications -Knowledge of contemporary art, architecture, and design, and an awareness of cross-disciplinary issues in an art school setting. -Knowledge of print and electronic resources – particularly open access, open data, and open source resources. We are an art school and this position will support scientific research in that context. -Ability to use a full range of text and electronic resources in the arts, sciences, and related areas. -Background in library technologies and emerging technologies – with a curiosity (and healthy skepticism) about current trends. -Reading knowledge of a language other than English. -Fearlessness (with a healthy dose of common sense) Candidates who submit their materials before May 15, 2017 are assured full consideration. Full job desciption and online application available here: https://careers.risd.edu/postings/1537 Visit the official page of ARLIS UK & Ireland http://www.arlis.net/Home. Subscribe to https://arlismatters.wordpress.com/, to receive regular posts on art library and archive matters; news, print and digital art and design resources, artists’ books, recent and upcoming events and exhibitions, ARLIS/UK & Ireland publications, job listings and professional profiles.