Library Associate

Position Overview

The Forest History Society is seeking a Library Associate to support the Forests of the Last 50 Years Project—an initiative dedicated to collecting, preserving, and providing public access to materials documenting the history of forests from the 1970s through the 2020s. Learn more about the project here: https://foresthistory.org/forests50/.

This 2 to 3-year initiative includes major efforts to secure oral histories and archival documents from key individuals and institutions from the last 50 years of forest history, significantly enhancing FHS’s collections, programming, and visibility to forest and environmental historians as well as the broader public.

This position offers an opportunity to contribute to the preservation of contemporary forest history and to work with a dynamic team dedicated to research, education, and storytelling.

Responsibilities

• Collect, organize, and preserve archival materials, including born-digital content.
• Manage oral history recordings and transcripts.
• Conduct archival processing and create descriptive metadata.
• Provide access to collections through both digital platforms and on-site services.
• Assist with communications and outreach around library and archival collections.
• Provide support for development efforts and stewardship of project donors.
• Provide reference assistance to researchers.
• Assist with other library and archival duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• ALA-accredited MLS, MIS, or equivalent advanced degree.
• Experience with digital collections.
• Strong preference for candidates with archival experience and familiarity with digital record management, metadata standards, and digital preservation best practices.
• Experience with video and audio editing.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Proven ability to communicate with diverse audiences.
• Must possess superior written communication skills and strong attention to detail.
• Preference for candidates with a background and interest in North American history and/or environmental history.

Compensation and Benefits

• Status: Full-time
• Location: Durham, North Carolina (on-site)
• Salary: $52,000-$55,000, commensurate with experience
• Health and vision benefits
• Retirement plan with employer contribution after first year of employment
• Generous paid time off
• Flexible and supportive work environment

How to Apply

Send your resume and cover letter to library@foresthistory.org with the subject line Library Associate.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to those received by March 23, 2026.

Pay: $52,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person