Sunday, August 20, 2023

Twin Cities Job Posting: Library Assistant at MN Landscape Arboretum

The following job posting was sent to me by the Librarian, Kristen Mastel. She says, " a word to the wise, applicants must explicitly address every required qualification in their cover letter, otherwise they get rejected before I can even see them. I am available to answer any questions folks may have about the position." - if you'd like me to connect you with Kristen, email me: jennifer.sippel(at)minneapolis.edu 

Andersen Horticultural Library Job Opening: Library Assistant

See link: http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/employment/index.html

 

Job Posting ID: 357131

Overview
Andersen Horticultural Library (AHL), the largest horticultural research library in the Upper Midwest, is located at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (MLA) in Chanhassen, MN.  It is nationally known for its Historic Seed & Nursery Catalog Collection, its collection of George Nakashima furnishings, and for its 500+ years of garden and natural history resources. AHL is part of the University of Minnesota Libraries and reports through the Research Division/Sciences, Agriculture & Engineering (SAgE) department. Andersen Horticultural Library seeks a collaborative, creative individual with a passion for plants and/or animals.

Primary Function
This is a part-time 75% appointment. The primary functions of this position are to provide reference service for Andersen Horticultural Library, coordinate the Flora & Fauna Illustrata project (FFI), manage the Juvenile collection and children’s programming, and create and mount displays and exhibits.

Work Hours/Days: Week A: Tues-Fri, 9am-4:30pm; Week B: Wed-Sat: 9am-4:30pm; alternate weeks A & B

Salary: $24.59/hour plus depending on qualifications


Job Duties/Responsibilities

1. PROVIDE REFERENCE AND INFORMATION SERVICES (45%)

Provide reference and information assistance to library users and arboretum staff at the
Andersen Horticultural Library reference desk, utilizing knowledge of Library and Minnesota Landscape Arboretum procedures, resources, and facilities. Using judgment and informed appraisal of alternatives, refer users to appropriate indexes, location of materials, substitute publications, and to other U-Libraries units; refer more specialized queries to the librarian or appropriate Arboretum/campus staff and faculty. Responsible on a regular basis for the operation of AHL: provide sole staffing of the library on occasional weekdays and at least one Saturday every pay period.

2. COORDINATE THE MLA-AHL FLORA & FAUNA ILLUSTRATA PROJECT (25%)
Keep records; update and expand the website; liaise with Field Project Leaders, Librarian, and artists; arrange meetings and create meeting agendas; actively recruit artists to contribute their work to the FFI; create and mount at least one FFI exhibition per year; expand digital exhibit; work with marketing and communications teams to promote exhibits.

3. MANAGE CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMING AND JUVENILE COLLECTION (10%)
Identify possible additions and withdrawals from the Juvenile Collection; add items to database; keep shelves organized. Create engaging items and activities for children (e.g., coloring books, scavenger hunts). Coordinate StoryTime: develop themes, select books, read. Work closely with Arboretum marketing team to produce and promote items and events.

4. EXHIBITS COORDINATOR (10%)
Periodically change out Skyway Gallery exhibits and library displays. Create exhibits and displays that highlight AHL’s holdings or history: research topics and resources, write caption and info cards, work with Librarian/Curator to select rare materials, if appropriate.

5. SPECIAL PROJECTS/OTHER DUTIES (10%)
Process all items added to multiple collections. Periodically review the AHL website and present detailed corrections/ suggestions/ updates to AHL web coordinator. Work with the Arboretum Volunteer Coordinator to effectively plan projects and hire, train, and supervise volunteers for tasks related to this position. Assist with unloading and moving book donations for the annual book sale.
LA3: FFI Coordinator

The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.
 

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

  • College education can be substituted for library or research experience on a year for year basis up to three (3) years plus two years of relevant library experience and/or five (5) years of relevant library or research experience.
  • Experience or coursework related to horticulture, gardening, botany, or natural history.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to lift 40 pounds.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience planning and implementing outreach projects and events.
  • Considerable ability with database searching.
  • Experience installing art shows and/or creating displays.
  • Strong aptitude with computers and software.
  • Ability to work independently and to work effectively as a team member.

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning.  We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
  • Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship
  • Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
  • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
  • University HSA contributions
  • Disability and employer-paid life insurance
  • Employee wellbeing program
  • Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
  • Financial counseling services 
  • Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.