Reference and Reading Room Manager

Reporting to the Head of Special Collections Research, Engagement, and Instruction, the Reference and Reading Room Manager provides strategic oversight and leadership of Special Collections and Archives (SCA) public service points, including the onsite reading room and remote reference queries. They ensure knowledgeable and effective reference and research services are provided to all SCA patrons. The position supervises 3-5 student assistants in reference and administrative duties.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement policies and workflows for conducting all aspects of the reference process, following professional standards for public services.
• Train all SCA faculty, staff, and students who work on the reference desk, ensuring high levels of customer service.
• Serve 8 hours per week on the reference desk and coordinate both the reference desk and paging schedules.
• Troubleshoot and resolve problems in the reading room and escalate issues when necessary.
• Serve as the first point of contact for SCA email and phone reference requests, managing remote reference queries.
• Develop expertise in general Las Vegas and Nevada history and SCA’s archival and rare book holdings to provide effective reference assistance.
• Coordinate responses to copyright and permissions requests, conducting research on copyright status and overseeing the permissions process.
• Collaborate with Digital Collections to manage the reproduction workflow, invoice patrons, and manage PCI-compliant payments.
• Collaborate with the Head of Special Collections Research, Engagement, and Instruction on outreach events, instruction sessions, material selection, and student supervision.
• Coordinate and provide tours of the division.

About the University Libraries

As a strong partner in research and student learning, UNLV Libraries fosters critical thinking and lifelong learning at one of the nation's fastest-growing universities. University Libraries comprises Lied Library and four branch libraries, offering access to over 80,000 electronic journals, 1.2 million volumes, and 1.4 million e-books.

The Special Collections and Archives Division collects, preserves, and provides access to materials documenting the history, culture, and physical environment of Las Vegas, Southern Nevada, the global gaming industry, and UNLV. Collections include manuscripts, books, photographs, periodicals, maps, architectural drawings, oral histories, audiovisual materials, University archives, born-digital records, and cultural artifacts. Key collecting areas include gaming and gambling, regional community groups, sexual entertainment economies, Las Vegas entertainment and arts, urban resort architecture, mining, railroads, and Southern/Central Nevada history.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• 3 years of experience working in archives or library public services.
• 1 year of experience supervising students or paraprofessional employees.
• Competence and sensitivity in working with diverse individuals regarding gender, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, ability, income, education, and religion.
• Knowledge of basic library operations, reference interview strategies, and best practices for care and handling of archival materials.
• Proficiency with technology, including office software, library databases (e.g., Alma, Primo), and project management tools (e.g., Trello, AirTable).
• Strong customer service, interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across organizational levels.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to lift boxes up to 40 pounds and maneuver carts up to 100 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Las Vegas and Southern Nevada history.
• Knowledge of U.S. Copyright Law.
• Strong training and teaching skills.

Commitment to Diversity

The successful candidate will demonstrate support for diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, contributing to a respectful and positive work environment.

Pay

This is a full-time, 12-month Administrative Faculty position at a Grade B. The minimum salary is $64,600, competitive with similar institutions and dependent on the labor market. Professional development funding is provided annually.

Benefits

• Paid time off, sick leave, and holidays.
• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision).
• Retirement plans and voluntary benefits programs.
• No state income tax.
• Tuition discounts at Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) schools for employees, spouses, domestic partners, and dependents.
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs.
• UNLV athletics ticket discounts.
• Statewide employee purchase program discounts.
• RebelCard discounts on and off campus.
• Wellness programming for faculty and staff at no cost.
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles.
• Personal and professional development opportunities.
• Comprehensive onboarding program.
• Support and resources for veteran applicants.