Research and Instruction Librarian Job at Inside Higher Ed in Columbia

Research and Instruction Librarian

University of South Carolina, Thomas Cooper Library

Department: Library Research, Instruction and Reference

Part/Full Time: Full Time

Advertised Salary Range: Commensurate with Experience

About UofSC

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system transforms the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of its eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. Over 50,000 students are enrolled at of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four‑year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. The Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in‑person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions emphasize service, building healthier, more educated communities.

Job Summary

The Research & Instruction department seeks a librarian to provide information literacy and research support focusing on computing, engineering, and the sciences. The librarian develops instruction sessions and offers research consultations, for general topics as well as subject or course specific, and delivers them both in‑person and online. The librarian participates in the University Libraries’ liaison program in support of the teaching and research endeavors of STEM and other areas as assigned. Developing and strengthening relationships between the library and assigned departments, and across campus, is a focus of this position.

Essential Functions

• Assisting students and faculty via scheduled or drop‑in research consultations; providing support for general topics as well as advanced consultation in areas of responsibility.
• Assisting with systematic reviews and/or evidence synthesis projects.
• Providing support for integrating technology (e.g., citation management software, AI applications, etc.) to support or enhance research.
• Providing general research and reference assistance via chat, as required. Maintain a friendly, welcoming attitude toward patrons.
• Maintaining and sharing awareness of trends and developments in research methodologies and practices in areas of responsibility.
• Designing and teaching instructional sessions and workshops in a variety of formats and creating tutorials, guides, and other digital learning objects to develop and enhance students’ research and literacy skills.
• Partnering with faculty to integrate research skills into the curriculum and develop collections which sustain and advance the university’s research goals.
• Participating in general instruction program, as well as instruction aimed at serving targeted populations such as first‑year students, first‑generation college students, international students, etc.
• Seeking opportunities to develop and strengthen relationships between the library and assigned departments, and across the university community.
• Collaborating with colleagues in other library departments to develop and promote collections owned or subscribed by the library.
• Participating in overall outreach efforts to build community and engage students and faculty with the Library.
• Participating in professional development and continuing education activities.
• Performing other related duties as assigned to meet the goals of the Libraries and University.

Required Education and Experience

• MLIS from an ALA‑accredited program (or equivalent). The combination of another graduate degree and relevant experience will be given equal consideration.
• Experience providing general and in‑depth research and/or instructional services.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively with users at all levels of expertise across disciplines.
• Project an approachable and customer‑service‑oriented attitude.
• Ability to collaborate effectively and work on teams.
• Ability to effectively and efficiently learn new resources.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years experience working in academic libraries.
• 2+ years experience in bibliographic instruction.
• Experience in developing and producing online tutorials.
• Experience as a liaison in the sciences.
• Familiarity with AI applications in library instruction and outreach, including in teaching.

Job Close Date: 12/15/2025

Special Instructions to Applicant

Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position. Should a review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.

We are only accepting applications submitted by December 15, 2025.

To apply, please visit: https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/197190

EEO Statement: The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions.