Library Assistant

Location: Washington, DC (On-Site)

Employment Type: Part-Time (16-20 hours per week)

Compensation: $25 to $30 per hour

About Middle East Institute

Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is the oldest Washington-based institution dedicated solely to the study of the Middle East. It is a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, educational and professional development services, and a hub for engaging with the region's arts and culture.

Position Summary

The Library Assistant plays a key role in supporting the management and development of the library’s collection, providing essential library services to patrons and staff, and coordinating the digitization of the Held Archive. This position requires a strong foundation in library science, cataloging standards, and digital resource management. The Library Assistant will also assist in training and supervising interns and will contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of library operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee daily library operations and supervise library interns.
• Provide circulation, reference, and reader’s advisory services to patrons and staff.
• Maintain and manage the library’s collection of books, periodicals, records, DVDs, and other materials.
• Support the digitization efforts of the Held Archive, ensuring metadata standards are met.
• Perform cataloging and classification using contemporary bibliographic standards including MARC, RDA Toolkit, and Library of Congress subject headings.
• Manage bibliographic records using Koha open-source library software.
• Compile and submit statistical reports related to library usage and collections.
• Evaluate and assist in developing library programs and services.
• Train and mentor interns in library processes, cataloging, and administrative tasks.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, patrons, and external partners.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

 Qualifications and Skills

• A bachelor’s degree in library science from an ALA-accredited institution.
• Experience working in an academic, research, or special library setting.
• In-depth knowledge of cataloging and classification systems, including MARC and non-MARC metadata standards.
• Proficiency with Koha open-source cataloging system is essential.
• Familiarity with library administration and collection management.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, pay attention to detail, and think critically.
• Proficiency in either Turkish, Arabic, or Farsi is required.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse populations and across departments.
• Demonstrated capacity to train and evaluate support staff or interns.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• This position typically operates in an office and library setting.
• Must be able to lift and move library materials (up to 25 lbs.).
• May require occasional evening or weekend work.

Disclaimer:
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Duties may be subject to change based on organizational needs.