Librarian

Contract Librarian Position:
Initial 5 month term with potential for extension

Contract management firm seeks full-time Librarian for the NIH Patient Library, a small library with a big mission at the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda campus. This is a contract position with an initial 5-month term until July 12, 2026, with possibility of extension. The library serves the needs of NIH patients and caregivers and features a collection that is most akin to that of a mini-public library, with a special emphasis on materials that are of a health and coping nature.

The librarian will work collaboratively with the supervisory and part time librarians, performing a variety of professional tasks including reference, programming, reader’s advisory, material processing, customer service at circulation desk, supervision of volunteers, and other duties as assigned, some of which may be clerical in nature. The librarian provides library assistance at the patient bedside as well as in the library, and is also charged with assisting patients and caregivers with computer technology as needed.

The ideal candidate should possess a Master’s degree in library science or be close to completing the requirements for an MLS degree. A solid knowledge of professional library principles, practices, and procedures coupled with excellent customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills is required. Attention to detail, strong public service orientation, and an optimistic, caring, and kind disposition is a must. Candidates must be comfortable and well-versed in library technology and Microsoft Office Suite.

Canva and newsletter development skills a plus. Conversational Spanish in addition to English proficiency is desirable.

The successful candidate must pass a basic government background suitability check and provide immunization records as part of the on-boarding process for this contract librarian position.

Competitive salary ($63,000 - $79,000 range) and benefits; rewarding work environment.

Email resume and cover letter to Marie Kaplan, mkaplan.gov. No phone calls please. This recruitment may close at any time, and will close when it is determined that enough qualified applications have been received.