Reference Librarian/Archivist

UVA Library is seeking a Reference Librarian/Archivist in the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library. This position is responsible for providing excellent reference service to users of the Special Collections Library relating to the Library's collections.

The Special Collections Library supports teaching and research by acquiring, preserving, and providing access to rare books, manuscripts, archives, maps, and digital materials. Its mission focuses on serving university, national, and international scholars while promoting cultural insights through exhibitions.

About the University of Virginia Library:

The University of Virginia Library is here to ensure that the University community has the information it needs for teaching, research, and enrichment. Regularly ranked in the top quartile of ARL libraries, UVA Library has six locations, more than 220 staffers, and more than 100 student employees. Additionally, as a major research institution, the Library regularly collaborates with professional organizations such as the Virtual Library of Virginia (VIVA), Virginia Library Association, Association of College and Research Libraries, and others.

The University of Virginia Library is committed to a culture of mutual respect, civility, cooperation, mindfulness, accountability, and acceptance of individual differences. Departments and individuals are expected to work together, both in professional collaborations and in creating a culture where all can thrive.

Responsibilities

• Working at the Special Collections reference desk: registering researchers, assisting researchers with locating and requesting materials, processing material requests, overseeing the retrieval of materials, charging and discharging materials, and providing handling protocols and reading room security
• Presenting an overview on conducting special collections research and giving an orientation to the reading room
• Researching, answering and managing remote reference queries
• Interacting with library systems: monitoring Aeon queues and appointments, locating materials using VIRGO--the Library's online catalog--and ArchivesSpace, and finding digitized images in Tracksys-the Library's digital tracking system.
• Following best practices for reference desk and training other staff members in these best practices
• Contributing to division and Library committees and working groups
  

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Master's degree in Library Science from ALA Accredited program or relevant graduate degree. Experience equivalency substitution (per Department of Labor Equivalency Guidelines): Bachelor's + 4 Years relevant experience considered in lieu of degree.
• Experience: 0-4 years experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• One year of experience working with the public in a special collections or academic research library or archival repository
• Familiarity with current best practices and national standards for primary source reference
• Experience using Aeon request and workflow management system for special collections or archival materials
• Subject area knowledge of American history, American or British literature, bibliography, or book arts
• Experience with technical management of library systems
• Familiarity with ADA-compliance requirements
• Awareness of emerging AI technologies in libraries & archives
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Self-motivated, resourceful, reliable, and inclusive
• Able to work collaboratively and independently.

The UVA Library is interested in reviewing candidates with a broad range of experiences, education, and qualifications. We are dedicated to building a dynamic workplace, so if you are excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every preferred qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway.

An informational webinar is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, at 10am Eastern Time. To register, please use the following link: https://virginia.zoom.us/j/97858526394

Physical Demands

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

Anticipated hiring range: $65,000 - $69,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Position Type & Work Location

• This is an exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits.
• This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.

To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.

Application review will begin after May 18, 2026.Preference will be given to applications received by this date. The position will remain open until filled.

Additional Requirements

• Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment
• This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship now or in the future.

How to Apply

Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0082880. Complete an application with the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter - should include your interest in the position and how your relevant experience pertains to this position and the UVA Library.

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.

Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on theUVA Internal Careers website.

Reference Checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.

For questions about the application process, please contact Michele Jarman at emj2us@virginia.edu.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.