Reference Archivist (Presbyterian Historical Society)

Overview

The national offices of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), A Corporation (“A Corp”) “PC(USA)”, based in Louisville Kentucky, serve with mid-councils, congregations, worshipping communities, and partner organizations to carry forth the mission of Jesus Christ. Approximately 400 individuals, diverse in race, age, gender, sexual orientation, faith, skills, and more, come together as colleagues to work for a world where justice reigns, peace prevails, and God’s love extends to all people. This community comprises the staff of national entities: the Interim Unified Agency, the Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, Presbyterian Women, Investment and Loan Program, and the Administrative Services Group.

Basic Commitment: This position calls for a commitment to the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as noted in its theological confessions, the Book of Order, and the actions of the General Assembly.

Position Purpose: 

Delivers high-quality reference and research services across multiple service channels including in-person service desk, emails, telephone, and online chat. Develops research support tools. Contributes to communications, outreach, and other program-related activities.

Roles and Responsibilities (list in order of priority):

1. Provides in-person reference and research consultation and assistance during designated research hours. 
2. Provides accurate and timely remote reference services in response to basic and complex information requests to constituencies of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), scholars, and the general public.    
3. Collaborates with Public Services colleagues to continually evaluate and improve reference and research services.
4. Contributes to the development of subject guides, FAQs, and other research support tools. Leads work on the Presbyterian-affiliated Native American Schools subject guide project.
5. Serves on the PHS Reparative Description Committee and other cross-departmental teams as assigned.
6. Contributes writing to the PHS blog and other communications.
7. Contributes to outreach activities as assigned.
8. Other duties as assigned by the supervisor or the PC(USA) Interim Unified Agency.

 Essential Position Requirements:

• ALA-accredited master’s degree in library or information science with a specialization in archives. An advanced degree in a related discipline, combined with experience in archival reference services, may be substituted.
• At least two years of full-time experience in an archives or special collections library. 
• Demonstrated experience providing research support to diverse user groups with varying levels of exposure to archives.
• Demonstrated experience interpreting bibliographic records and archival finding aids; searching catalogs, databases, and other discovery tools; and explaining the use of these tools to researchers.

Required Competencies:

• Time and self-management skills: Effective at meeting deadlines, adjusting priorities, and working on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Communication skills: Ability to communicate clearly, positively, and effectively, both verbally and in writing. Strong writing and editing skills. 
• Interpersonal and relationship skills: Ability to work in a consultative and collaborative style. Ability to effectively manage interpersonal relationships.
• Technology skills: Demonstrated ability to use and adapt technology to deliver reference services, manage research workflows, and collaborate effectively in a digital environment. Proficiency with Windows computers and Microsoft software products (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.). Familiarity with virtual meetings tools (Zoom, Teams, etc.). Able to use and quickly adapt to new and changing software.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Fluency in English. 

 Helpful Skills:

• Have a deep understanding and commitment to cultural and racial ethnic inclusiveness. Value diverse groups, ethnicities, genders, communities, cultural constituencies and points of view.  Able to relate well to people from all walks of life and of varying theological perspectives. 
• Fluency in Spanish, Korean, or another language. 
• Experience in developing educational resources and teaching about archives. 
• Experience researching and writing on historical topics.

 Physical Requirements:  

• The position is based in Philadelphia and requires regular in-person reference work. Limited opportunities for flexible scheduling or remote work may be available in accordance with institutional policies.
• Ability to retrieve collection materials from various locations on multiple floors. This includes using step stools and ladders and handling boxes up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to use the computer for extended periods of time.
• Sight and hearing required. 

Additional Information/Benefits:

We believe a balanced life, with time for work, leisure, and spiritual nurture, makes us healthier and more productive colleagues.

 PC(USA) offers a competitive benefits package for eligible employees including Medical, Dental, Pension Plan, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Flexible Spending Account, 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan, Vacation Days, Sick Days, and Paid Holidays.

Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) A Corporation Commitment:

Our faith in God inspires our commitment to the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging and is grounded in scripture, the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), and actions of the General Assembly.

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) A Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, class, religion, country of origin, political belief, (dis)ability, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or any factor protected by law. Members of underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.