Harvard Library Office – Antiracism Librarian USA
The Harvard Library Office for Antiracism is actively seeking a dynamic and strategic individual to take on the role of the inaugural Antiracism Librarian. This position calls for a highly motivated and exceptionally organized professional who will play a crucial role in supporting Harvard Library’s Antiracism Strategy.
Reporting directly to the Associate University Librarian (AUL) for Antiracism, the Antiracism Librarian will be responsible for overseeing and executing various library-specific tasks and initiatives aimed at advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging and antiracism (EDIBA) within the Harvard Library community.
Antiracism Responsibilities
The Antiracism Librarian will collaborate closely with the Antiracism staff to strategically advance Harvard Library’s Antiracism Strategy. This includes preparing analytical reports and developing comprehensive communication plans to effectively disseminate findings to key stakeholders across the library. The role also involves partnering with different organizational units within the library to integrate the Antiracism Strategy into library services, collections and physical spaces. This integration will be continually reviewed and refined to ensure alignment with the evolving goals of the Harvard Library Antiracism Strategy.
Additionally, the Antiracism Librarian may undertake research, design and implementation of training initiatives and establish an assessment framework for the EDIBA Learning Journey. This aspect of the role involves collaboration with the Harvard Library Office for Antiracism (HLOA) team to collect and evaluate feedback on programs such as the EDIBA Reading Room and other educational workshops.
The Antiracism Librarian will also contribute to the development of training materials and organizational development activities as part of the broader Antiracism Education Team.
Library Collaborations
In the realm of library collaborations, the Antiracism Librarian will represent the Harvard Library Office for Antiracism on the Antiracism Collections Team (ACT). This involves supporting efforts to build library collections that align with the Antiracism Strategy, ensuring that the library’s acquisitions and archival practices reflect its commitment to antiracism principles. The role also includes the creation, implementation and management of policies such as the Collection Development and Reading Room Refresh Policy for specific library spaces dedicated to EDIBA collections.
Furthermore, the Antiracism Librarian will oversee the administration of the Bryant Fellowship Program, which supports independent research by Harvard Library staff focusing on antiracism within the context of research libraries. This program plays a critical role in fostering a scholarly environment that promotes diversity, equity and inclusion.
Communications
Effective communication is essential to the role of Antiracism Librarian. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and maintaining resources such as staff Wikis and LibGuides that support antiracism initiatives within Harvard Library. They will also provide updates and maintain digital platforms such as the Staff Wiki, EDIBA Team SharePoint and the office website, ensuring that information related to ongoing projects and initiatives reaches the broader Harvard Library community and external stakeholders through channels like blog posts, emails and social media updates.
Programming and Events
A significant aspect of the role involves co-leading and managing activities and events sponsored by the Harvard Library Office for Antiracism. This includes organizing workshops, seminars, lectures and other educational programs that promote awareness and understanding of antiracism principles within the library community.
Basic Qualifications: Candidates for the position must possess an MLS or MIS from a program accredited by the American Library Association, along with a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience in the field of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Alternatively, a combination of education and experience that demonstrates proficiency in these areas will be considered.
Additional Qualifications and Skills: The ideal candidate will exhibit excellent interpersonal and communication skills, along with a demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging and antiracism. Strong analytical abilities and organizational skills are essential, enabling effective data organization and presentation. The role requires the capacity to prioritize tasks in a dynamic environment with competing interests, as well as adaptability to meet evolving needs and challenges.
Proficiency in essential software tools such as MS Office, Google Drive, SharePoint, Zoom and Adobe Acrobat is crucial. The willingness and ability to acquire new technical skills as required for the role are also expected.
Working Conditions: The position is based on the Cambridge, MA campus and requires onsite presence for a minimum of three days per week, with the option for a flexible or hybrid work model in accordance with Harvard University’s remote work policies. Attendance at off-site meetings in the Cambridge area or other Harvard locations may be necessary, with occasional requirements for non-standard working hours.
Benefits and Compensation: Harvard University offers a competitive benefits package, which includes comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs and various wellness initiatives. Employees also benefit from retirement planning options, tuition assistance programs and professional development opportunities aimed at enhancing skills and advancing careers.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging: Harvard Library is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that values and celebrates diversity in all its forms. The library recognizes that a diverse workforce enhances its ability to achieve excellence in research, teaching and learning, aligning with Harvard University’s mission. The organization actively encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and abilities to join its community of over 700 staff members. This commitment extends to collaborating with faculty, students and researchers to address intellectual challenges and contribute to meaningful solutions on a global scale.
The role of Antiracism Librarian at Harvard Library offers a unique opportunity for a passionate and skilled professional to make a significant impact in advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging and antiracism within one of the world’s leading academic libraries. By collaborating with stakeholders across the library community and implementing strategic initiatives, the Antiracism Librarian will play a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive and equitable environment for all members of the Harvard community.
FAQ
What is the role of the Antiracism Librarian at Harvard Library?
The Antiracism Librarian at Harvard Library plays a crucial role in supporting and advancing the Harvard Library’s Antiracism Strategy. This includes collaborating with various stakeholders to integrate antiracism principles into library services, collections and spaces. The librarian also develops and implements educational programs, manages initiatives like the Bryant Fellowship Program and engages in communication efforts to foster awareness and understanding of antiracism.
What are the basic qualifications required for the position of Antiracism Librarian?
Candidates must have an MLS or MIS from a program accredited by the American Library Association. Additionally, a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is required. Candidates with a combination of education and experience demonstrating proficiency in these areas will also be considered.
What additional qualifications and skills are preferred for the Antiracism Librarian role?
The ideal candidate should possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, along with a demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging and antiracism. Strong analytical abilities and organizational skills are essential for effectively organizing data and managing initiatives. Proficiency in software tools such as MS Office, Google Drive, SharePoint, Zoom and Adobe Acrobat is also required.
What are the responsibilities related to antiracism initiatives for the Antiracism Librarian?
The Antiracism Librarian collaborates closely with Antiracism staff to support Harvard Library’s Antiracism Strategy. Responsibilities include writing analytical reports, developing communication plans, integrating antiracism principles into library services and collections, conducting research, designing training initiatives, managing feedback on programs and participating in the Antiracism Education Team.
How does the Antiracism Librarian contribute to library collaborations?
The librarian represents the Harvard Library Office for Antiracism on the Antiracism Collections Team (ACT) and supports the development of library collections aligned with the Antiracism Strategy. This includes managing policies like the Collection Development and Reading Room Refresh Policy and administering the Bryant Fellowship Program. The librarian also participates in initiatives such as the EDIBA Digitization working group.
What are the communication responsibilities of the Antiracism Librarian?
The librarian creates and maintains resources such as staff Wikis and LibGuides to support antiracism initiatives. They provide updates through platforms like the Staff Wiki, EDIBA Team SharePoint, office website and social media. Additionally, the librarian writes blog posts, emails and other content to inform the Harvard Library community and key stakeholders about ongoing projects and initiatives.
What programming and events does the Antiracism Librarian manage?
The librarian co-leads and manages activities and events sponsored by the Harvard Library Office for Antiracism. This includes organizing workshops, seminars, lectures and other educational programs aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of antiracism principles within the library community.
What are the working conditions for the Antiracism Librarian position?
The position is based on the Cambridge, MA campus and requires onsite presence for a minimum of three days per week. The librarian may also attend off-site meetings in the Cambridge area or other Harvard locations as needed. Flexible or hybrid work arrangements compliant with Harvard University’s remote work policies are available.
What benefits and compensation are offered to the Antiracism Librarian?
Harvard University provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs and various wellness initiatives. Employees also have access to retirement planning options, tuition assistance programs and professional development opportunities.
How does Harvard Library demonstrate its commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging?
Harvard Library actively fosters an inclusive environment that values diversity in all its forms. The library encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and abilities to join its community of over 700 staff members. This commitment extends to collaborating with faculty, students and researchers to address intellectual challenges and contribute to meaningful solutions on a global scale.