What are the responsibilities and job description for the Library Assistant position at Council on Foreign Relations?
Overview
Founded in 1921, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is a leading nonprofit membership organization, research center, and publisher, with headquarters in New York, an office in Washington, DC, and programs nationwide. It is dedicated to increasing America's understanding of the world and contributing ideas to U.S. foreign policy. CFR's 5,000 members are leaders in international affairs and foreign policy. CFR also publishes Foreign Affairs, the preeminent magazine on global issues, and provides up-to-date information about the world and U.S. foreign policy on its award-winning website, CFR.org.
Position Summary
The Library at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) offers comprehensive access to a wide range of books, journals, and databases to support the organization's research initiatives. The Library Assistant plays a crucial role in retrieving and managing these materials, ensuring timely delivery to CFR staff. Additionally, the Library Assistant contributes to various library projects, enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the library's operations.
This position is a part time role based in CFR’s Washington, DC office on a hybrid basis. CFR currently defines hybrid status as working at least three days a week onsite, with Tuesdays and Thursdays considered institutional anchor days where all staff are required to be onsite.
The major responsibilities of this position will include (but are not limited to):
- Retrieve and deliver research materials in both print and digital formats for CFR researchers, ensuring timely and accurate document delivery
- Assist library staff in testing and maintaining access to intranet, databases, and online resources
- Participate in the development and implementation of digital projects, including digitization initiatives and the integration of new technologies
- Assist library staff with evaluating research resources and collection management projects
- Compile data related to library usage; regularly update subscription services by removing departed staff from access lists
- Assist with the development and maintenance of library resource guides
- Perform any other duties or tasks as assigned or required
Qualifications
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent; some college coursework in library science or related field preferred
Experience
- Familiarity with bibliographic databases (library catalogs, article databases, etc.)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Basic understanding of content management systems and online research tools
- Strong problem-solving skills and persistence in providing excellent service
- Demonstrated competency and prior experience in providing customer service, administrative support, or research assistance
Related Skills & Other Requirements
- Previous experience in a library or similar environment is a plus
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to interact effectively with staff, researchers, and the public
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Ability to stoop, kneel, bend, crouch, and lift up to 20 pounds
Required Application Materials
- Please submit a résumé and cover letter stating your interest in the position
Compensation and Benefits
- The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $25 per hour – $27 per hour, depending on experience
- In addition to competitive salaries, CFR provides employees with an outstanding benefits package
About CFR
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is committed to fostering a foreign policy community in the United States that is more representative of American society, recognizing that diverse backgrounds and perspectives contribute to broader, more informed participation in the foreign policy debate and lead to an enhanced understanding of the world and the United States’ role therein. To that end, CFR is dedicated to continuing to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout its work and workplace by building a more diverse membership and staff, producing and dispensing thoughtful analysis on a broad range of foreign policy issues, and developing relevant, wide-reaching programming that also serves to expand the foreign policy talent pipeline to underrepresented populations.
The Council on Foreign Relations is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks candidates from a diverse background.
Salary : $25 - $27
