Research Assistant, Schomburg Centennial

The New York Public Library

New York, NY

Part-Time

Job Description

Description

Overview
Founded in 1925 and named a National Historic Landmark in 2017, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is one of the world’s leading cultural institutions devoted to the collection, preservation, and study of materials focused on African American, African Diaspora, and African experiences. The Schomburg Center, featuring diverse programming and collections spanning over 11 million items, has for over nine decades illuminated the richness of black history, arts, and experience worldwide. As a key part of one of the largest public library systems in the world, the Schomburg Center is committed to maximizing free and public access to its collections, exhibitions, educational activities, and much of its programming.

Reporting to the Director of the Schomburg Center, the Research Assistant, Schomburg Centennial will be tasked with conducting research to support the Schomburg Center’s Centennial celebration which will take place beginning in early 2025

The Research Assistant, Schomburg Centennial will work across Schomburg divisions, including General Research & Reference, Moving Image & Recorded Sound, Art & Artifacts, Photographs & Prints, and Manuscripts, Archives, & Rare Books Events to examine the institution’s history to include in events, exhibitions, and programs related to the centennial. The candidate must be curious and possess strong written and verbal communication skills along with impeccable time management and strong attention to detail. This is an 18 month temporary position.

Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Director, the Research Assistant, Schomburg Centennial will be responsible for the following tasks:

Independently conduct research in the center’s collecting divisions

Regularly request and manage research appointments in Aeon and other library systems
Provide written summaries / outlines based on research findings to the Director
Assist in maintaining exhibition and other project databases
Complete administrative tasks related to centennial projects
With the Director’s guidance, format and prepare content for various platforms
When necessary, attend meetings related to Centennial project planning

Required Education, Experience & Skills

Required Education & Certifications

Undergraduate degree in History/Humanities or related field required
Previous study or deep interest in African Diaspora studies preferred

Required Experience
3-5 years of research experience in an academic or cultural institution
Required Skills

High proficiency in fact-based, in-depth research practices
Excellent written and verbal communication
Ability to work independently and in collaboration with others to complete goals
High proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
Detail oriented, organized, professional, efficient, and collegial

Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities

N/A

More...

Core Values
All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:

Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
Be Resourceful in solving problems
Be Curious in all aspects of your work
Be Welcoming and Inclusive

Work Environment

Office setting
Public research library and archive setting

Physical Duties

Limited physical effort is required
May require travel within NYC

Pre-Placement Physical Required?
No

Union/Non Union
Non-Union

FLSA Status
Non-Exempt

Schedule

15-20 hours per week
Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm, Flexible schedule
18 month temporary

This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.

The New York Public Library Salary Statement

At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such, including, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies.

Union Salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).