Job Summary
Provides knowledge of and access to the Library’s collections and related external resources by planning, implementing, delivering and monitoring all aspects of those public service programs designed to meet the research and reference requirements of National Gallery of Canada staff and external clientele. Participates in the development of the Library collections and research resources, including the main collection, the rare book collection, the artists’ books and multiples collection, and the documentation collection. Supervises circulation, interlibrary loan, stack maintenance and photocopying and scanning services.
MAIN DUTIES:
The Head of Reference Services is responsible for all aspects of public services programming for the main Library collections. Working in consultation with the Senior Manager, Library, Archives and Research Fellowship Program, the Head of Reference Services:
- Provides general and advanced reference services and orientation to National Gallery of Canada curatorial and research staff, visiting research fellows, external researchers and scholars, and the general public;
- Plans, implements, and administers policies and procedures for reference activities including circulation and interlibrary loan services;
- Develops and promotes online services and resources;
- Supervises the Reference staff and supports and encourages their professional development;
- Represents and promotes the collections and services of the Library and Archives through outreach activities including: participation in the Library and Archives exhibition program, the publication program (Occasional Papers series), and in professional organizations at local, national and international venues;
- Develops the reference collection and participates in the development of the Library and Archives’ collections and resources, including the main collection, the rare book collection, the artists’ books and multiples collection, and the documentation collection, in accordance with the Library’s mandate and acquisition policy;
- Ensures the preservation and security of Library collections during their storage and use.
Requirements
• Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) degree from an ALA-accredited program.
• Master’s or undergraduate degree in Art History or a related discipline is preferred.
• Five years of professional experience working as a public service or reference librarian in an academic or research library, preferably an art library.
• Familiarity with the major bibliographic tools (print and electronic) and research methods for Art History.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and interpersonal skills to work effectively with a wide range of staff and patrons.
• Excellent presentation and public speaking skills.
• Strong commitment to public service.
• Familiarity with library standards, best-practice, library applications, computer systems, online databases, digital imaging technology, user access and image delivery technology.
• Experience working with websites.
• Supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of preservation and conservation practices and techniques to ensure that collections are well housed, stored, and handled.
• Flexibility and ability to react quickly and positively to change and the ability to accept challenges and create new opportunities.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
Notice to Applicants: The People, Culture and Belonging team of the National Gallery of Canada, invites selected applicants for interviews by way of written communication via email as per the NGC Staffing Process. Should applicants opt to unsubscribe from receiving emails regarding employment in this organization, please note that we will not be able to communicate with you to participate in the interview process. We encourage applicants to update their career profiles, ensure Email Communication Consent preferences are set to allow emails and check email junk/spam folders regularly.
We encourage applicants to update their career profiles, ensure Email Communication Consent preferences are set to allow emails and check email junk/spam folders regularly.
Additional Information
• Temporary assignment with the possibility of an extension or becoming indeterminate.
• A variety of assessment tools may be used to assess candidates.
• The National Gallery of Canada is committed to having a skilled, diversified workforce reflective of Canadian Society. Applications are invited from all qualified candidates, including Indigenous peoples, women, people of any sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, racialized people, and people with disabilities.
• The Gallery is committed to developing inclusive, barrier-free selection processes and work environment. Alternative selection tool methods and/or reasonable accommodation are available upon request.
• Candidates are entitled to participate in the selection process in the official language of their choice.
