Library Associate Local History Department - Trenton Public Library

Library Associate for Local History Department - Trenton Free Public Library

The Trenton Free Public Library is seeking a part-time Library Associate to work in the Trentoniana Local History Department. Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, organizing, rehousing, and describing artifacts, small manuscript collections, photographs, or ephemera; scanning and cataloging collections; and assisting the public with research inquiries.

The Trentoniana Department of the Trenton Free Public Library holds the earliest and largest collection of material available to the public anywhere that relates to the history of the City of Trenton and its inhabitants. It is a premier library-based special collection of historic items with material dating from the 17 th century to the present. The Library is one of the oldest in the United States and the first in New Jersey, founded in 1750, with its current building being dedicated in 1902.

The Department houses an estimated 100,000+ documents, artifacts, maps, and ephemera and more than 250,000 photographs. The unique source material has been provided for collegiate dissertations, professional and educational publications, historic preservation projects, and general research projects.

The Library Associate will work both on special projects as well as routine tasks, while at the same time helping patrons with their research requests. They must also have the ability to analyze, organize, and prepare reference aids, such as guides, indexes, bibliographies, and abstracts, and be comfortable working within a diverse community.

Under the direction of the Local History Librarian, the Library Associate will

• Assist with the organizing of documents and artifacts of historical significance
• Assist patrons with research inquiries, both in-person in the Trentoniana Room and via email
• Digitize photographs and create metadata
• Photograph and catalog artifacts and documents into software programs
• Participate in community outreach activities
• Plan and prepare material for displays, programs, and events
• Monitor social media accounts and create regular posts
• Participate in workshops, seminars, and meetings concerning Trenton and New Jersey history

Qualifications:

Experience in a research or history environment is preferred. Strong organizational skills, neatness, attention to detail, reliability, and a high level of self-motivation are required. Applicants must have the ability to communicate effectively with the public, both verbally and in writing, and have proficiency in MS Office Suite. Knowledge of Past Perfect and Omeka, Photoshop and Photopea a plus. Bachelor’s Degree required.

We are a Civil Service and Union workplace. This position is 19 hours per week, requiring day, evening, and Saturday hours. Starting salary is $25.13 per hour, pro-rated vacation, personal and sick time, and there is a 120-day working test period.

Interested candidates should email their cover letter and resume to director, attention Karen O’Malley.

“Good Faith” Salary, Range, or Rate of Pay