Special Collections Librarian

Position Summary

The role of the Special Collections Librarian is to manage and oversee a private library and ensure high-quality reference services for patrons. Incumbent is responsible for coordinating reference staffing, scheduling the day-to‑day operations of reference services, supervising in‑person and remote reference services, overseeing shelf reads and other library projects, and performing copy cataloging and original cataloging of library and archival materials according to accepted national standards.

This position is on‑site in Savannah, GA and works under the direction of the Vice President of Education and Programs.

With guidance from Human Resources and senior management, lead the onboarding, training, retention, motivation, performance evaluation, and, when necessary, performance management of reference staff. Implement a structured onboarding and training program to ensure all new library staff are effectively introduced to Georgia Historical Society (GHS) policies, procedures, tools, and systems. This includes initial orientation, role‑specific instruction, and ongoing mentorship. Ensure all team members are well‑versed in GHS’s policies and procedures, including but not limited to reference services, digital asset management, and library projects—both new and ongoing.

Monitor individual and team performance to ensure productivity and accountability, aligning work with institutional goals and established processing metrics. Work collaboratively with senior leadership and Human Resources to address staffing issues, provide performance feedback, and guide professional growth. Create and maintain a continuous professional development framework for all reference staff. This involves identifying and addressing skill gaps, offering regular internal training sessions on library standards, and researching and encouraging participation in workshops, webinars, and conferences relevant to their roles.

Patron Services: Lead the delivery of high‑quality reference and information services to researchers, patrons, and internal staff. Oversee the work of reference staff in response to incoming reference and image use requests in a variety of formats (email, telephone, in‑person, and mail) to ensure a timely turn‑around response, including ensuring the logging of incoming requests, monitoring response times, ensuring payment for research and image requests are paid in full, etc.

Ensure consistency and excellence in public service by maintaining up‑to‑date procedures and service standards. Coordinate and present special programs, instructional activities, and outreach efforts to broaden access to GHS resources statewide. Manage donor and patron interactions related to research and collections access in collaboration with development staff when appropriate.

Library Collection and Development: Oversee the growth, organization, and preservation of GHS's library holdings, including rare books, microfilm, and other library material with awareness, support, and guidance from senior management. Develop and monitor strategic library goals and work plans that align with the institution’s mission. Supervise the application of best practices for cataloging, display, and storage of materials. Maintain and analyze usage data and patron/collection statistics to guide strategic planning and reporting.

Oversee and/or perform copy cataloging and original cataloging of rare and non‑rare library and archival materials to facilitate their identification, access, and use. Promote the use of consistent, authorized headings in local and national files. Perform and oversee a variety of cataloging maintenance activities. Oversee collections management tasks for book and serial collections including shelf reading, inventorying, and deaccessioning projects.

Supporting the Collections Registrar, implement deaccessioning activities as directed.

Work with and support Education and Program staff in the development and implementation of onsite educational programs for students, educators,…