Research and Instruction Librarian Job at Inside Higher Ed in Columbia

We are Hiring

This position was posted on 4 days ago and is currently accepting applications until December 15, 2025.

About the University of South Carolina

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of its eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in‑person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Position Summary

The Research & Instruction department in the Thomas Cooper Library at the University of South Carolina seeks a librarian to provide information literacy and research support to students, faculty, and staff of the University, with a focus 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 topics, delivering them both in–person and online.

The librarian participates in University Libraries’ liaison program in support of the teaching and research endeavors of STEM and other areas as assigned, and focuses on developing and strengthening relationships between the library and assigned departments as well as across campus.

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 (citation management software, AI applications, etc.) to enhance research.
• Providing general research and reference assistance via chat, as required, while maintaining a friendly, welcoming attitude toward patrons.
• Maintaining awareness of trends and developments in research methodologies and practices in areas of responsibility.
• Designing, teaching instructional sessions and workshops in various 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 that sustain and advance the university’s research goals.
• Participating in general instruction programs, 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, as well as across the university community.
• Collaborating with colleagues in other library departments to develop and promote collections owned or subscribed to 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.
• Approachable, customer‑service‑oriented attitude.
• Ability to collaborate effectively and work on teams.
• Ability to learn new resources quickly and efficiently.

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

How to Apply

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

Special Instructions

Positions are advertised for at least five business days on our job website. After five business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. We are only accepting applications submitted by December 15, 2025.

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.