Adjunct Faculty - Reference and Instruction

Position Description Summary

Henry Ford College presents an opportunity for an Adjunct Librarian - Reference and Instruction.

The Reference & Instruction Adjunct Librarian provides services including consultation, information literacy instruction, and reference support through a variety of virtual and face-to-face modalities. This Librarian partners in developing, providing, and assessing excellence and currency in services through cross-library and cross-campus collaborations, active participation in library programming and instruction, and continuous professional development. In addition to reference and instruction, there are opportunities to work on projects in specialized areas such as archives, Collection Development/Management and electronic Resources/Systems. Flexibility to positively participate in a rapidly changing environment is essential to success within this position. This position holds Adjunct Faculty status.

Core Competencies and Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library/Information Science from an ALA-Accredited Program.

• Two years User Experience and/or Reference experience in an academic library setting is preferred. We will consider experience received during graduate studies.

• Demonstrated understanding of current academic library services and practices.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with teams to develop strategies for student success.

• Understanding of and interest in the diversity of the student population within a community college and demonstrated ability to work with students, colleagues, and staff in an articulate, personable, and energetic manner.

• Position requires ability to lift 25 lbs. (primarily books) in keeping with the day-to-day work of a fully functioning library. Must be able to provide services requiring frequent movement throughout the library and across campus.

• Tools & Technology: Familiarity with database structures, library public access tools, and searching strategies essential for success. Specific knowledge of Innovative Sierra System, Proquest Intota system, essential websites, and LibGuides preferred.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities including but not limited to

Instruction and User Experience:

• Develop and provide quality, student-centered, reference and outreach services including assigned library instruction and in-person research consultation.

Access to Resources and Services:

• Participate in the creation of subject specialized LibGuides and other research tools.

• Participate in collection development and collection management activities, such as selection, weeding, and inventory.
• Develop and maintain projects that seek to broaden the avenues for access to materials including online tools, instructional materials, and outreach.
• Participate in online services delivery such as chat, online reference help, etc.
• Work collaboratively to assess the validity and usefulness of reference tools and services provided for library users.

Governance and Participation:

• Participate through input and the sharing of responsibilities in library and division committees, as able within assigned hours, on key functional areas and planning processes.
• Actively participate in the shared governance of the college through college-wide committees and workgroups, as able during assigned or other available hours.

Continuous Professional Development:

• Participate in, and share new ideas that come from, professional development activities including but not limited to conferences, serving on professional boards, visiting libraries, or pursuing other related educational opportunities.
• Serve as a welcoming, positive, professional face of the library in all aspects of work with library users, colleagues, and public supporters.