Research Services Librarian (U.S. History & Political Science)

About the position

The Research Services Librarian for U.S. History and Political Science at Rice University is a full-time position focused on providing research support and consultation services to the academic community. This role involves building and maintaining relationships with faculty, staff, and students, as well as developing and managing library collections. The librarian will engage in teaching, outreach, and specialized research services, particularly in collaboration with the Research Data Services team. The position emphasizes a user-centered approach and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the library and the broader university community.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a liaison to U.S. History and Political Science academic programs, providing research support and consultation services.
• Engage in the design and delivery of general and specialized research and teaching support services.
• Develop and manage collections for assigned areas, ensuring responsiveness to teaching and research needs.
• Participate in in-person and virtual consultations, teaching, and outreach activities.
• Create and maintain research guides and other support resources.
• Collaborate with the Research Data Services team on service development and implementation.
• Support general public services, including online reference and research support.
• Contribute to Fondren Library's organization through active participation in committees and work groups.

Requirements

• Master's degree from an ALA-accredited program or equivalent library and/or information science program.
• One or more years of related experience, which can include additional education as a substitute for experience.
• Strong interest in working with faculty, staff, and students.
• Ability to provide effective specialized research and teaching support in liaison areas.
• Ability to learn and apply technology to library services.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Public service experience in an academic or research library.
• Experience using the Springshare platform (LibGuides & LibAnswers).
• Familiarity with specialized research services including research data support and research impact services.
• Familiarity with the research lifecycle and interest in structuring library services accordingly.
• Familiarity with scholarly communications and scholarly publishing, including open access models.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401k retirement plan
• Paid holidays
• Flexible scheduling
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement