Reference Librarian

CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUMJOB DESCRIPTIONJOB TITLE: Reference LibrarianDEPARTMENT: Collections FLSA STATUS: Exempt - Professional JOB SUMMARY: The Reference Librarian provides professional research and reference support for the Museum's research collections, including published materials, archives and manuscripts, photographs, architectural drawings, and other related print materials. This position supports onsite and remote researchers and facilitates meaningful access to the Museum's collection.JOB PURPOSE:The Reference Librarian serves as a key point of access to the Museum's research collections, assisting researchers in navigating complex library and archival materials. This position applies advanced knowledge, professional judgment and discretion to evaluate research inquiries, guide access and discovery, and ensure compliance with collection policies. The Reference Librarian advances the Museum's mission by connecting all audiences with Chicago's history while upholding professional standards for collections care and access. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Provide equitable reference and research services to the Abakanowicz Research Center's (ARC) broad audience, including academic researchers, independent scholars, university and high school students, architects, community organizations, house historians, hobbyists, genealogists, and members of the public, ensuring that all users feel welcomed and supportedServe research collection items to researchers in the ARC, providing appropriate guidance and supervision on the use and handling of materialsRespond to email and written reference inquiries pertaining to Chicago history and the Museum's research collections, exercising professional judgment to determine appropriate resources, research strategies and referralsServe as the primary contact for researcher questions regarding the restricted Chicago Police Department Red Squad records, ensuring compliance with the court orderProvide orientations and instructional sessions introducing researchers, interns, school/university classes, and area librarian professionals to ARC holdings, research tools and servicesWork with the Research Collections Unit of the Collections Department to develop and maintain finding aids, research guides and other tools and resources that strengthen intellectual access to the collectionStay conversant with online research resources and share that knowledge with researchers and fellow staffCoordinate the ARC's Chicago Metro History Day servicesParticipate in the development of policies, procedures, and strategies governing the service and use of the research collectionParticipate in training of the Research Center Pages and the Research Center Associate to ensure consistent reference and research supportAdvise the Senior Research Librarian and the Director of Collections on the development of annual goals and objectives for the Research Services Unit of the Department of CollectionsRepresent the Museum in appropriate local, national, and international forumsEngage diplomatically and effectively with members of the public, including in complex or sensitive situationsWork safely and responsibly with fragile paper and film-based materials, following guidance from Conservation unit staffAscend and descend stairsLift, carry, or otherwise move objects/boxes weighing up to 40 poundsOTHER DUTIES:Instruct researchers, staff, interns, and volunteers in the use of the online catalog, other online resources, microfilm equipment, and other self-service equipmentMaintain reference materials and service areas in good orderSupervise interns and volunteers if requestedPerform other duties as neededREPORTS TO: Senior Research LibrarianWORKING RELATIONSHIPS:The Reference Librarian works closely with members of the Collections and Curatorial Affairs Departments to track the location, status and availability of research collections used in exhibitions, loans, and other programs; and collaborates with the Visitor Services Department, the Communications Department, and the External Engagement and Development Department to support public access and institutional initiatives. The Reference Librarian provides services to researchers and other members of the public. QUALIFICATIONS:Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS)Minimum of three years professional experience as a reference librarian; experience in an academic or special collections research setting preferredKnowledge of Chicago and its historyKnowledge of the Library of Congress classification systemExcellent verbal and written communication skillsAbility to deal diplomatically and effectively with members of the publicAbility to work safely with fragile paper and film-based materialsAbility to manage multiple research requests and work effectively under pressureAbility to ascend and descend stairsAbility to lift and carry objects/boxes weighing up to 40 poundsDemonstrated commitment to excellent public serviceCommitment to the mission, values, and programs of the Chicago History MuseumAvailable to work Saturdays from September to May

Created: 2026-04-02