Librarian 1 - Local History & Genealogy

The Public Libraries of Saginaw is seeking an archivist-minded librarian to lead the Local History and Genealogy (LHG) department at the historic Hoyt Library. This is a role for someone who finds genuine satisfaction in the work of making things findable.

LHG holds the third-largest local history collection in Michigan, with rich archival materials documenting the people, organizations, and businesses of Saginaw. Much of this collection remains to be processed and made accessible, and this librarian will be the driving force in that work. You’ll be part of a small, dedicated team working to ensure that Saginaw’s history is preserved, discoverable, and genuinely useful to the researchers and community members who need it.

This is not a back-of-house position. You’ll staff the LHG desk regularly, run public programs, supervise department staff, and collaborate across the library system. If you’re energized by variety — a morning processing a new accession, an afternoon helping someone trace their great-grandmother, an evening running a program you designed — this job might be the right fit.

What You’ll Do

Archival Work

• Manage and develop the LHG archival collections, including processing, description, and preservation
• Lead ongoing work in ArchivesSpace and Internet Archive to catalog, digitize, and increase access to the collection
• Oversee digitization workflows and born-digital archiving
• Evaluate and make recommendations for collection development

Public Service

• Provide reference assistance at the LHG desk on a regular, scheduled basis
• Help patrons — in person, by phone, and online — with genealogical research, historical questions, and use of archival materials
• Work collaboratively with the Castle Museum of Saginaw County History and other regional partners

Programs and Outreach

• Plan, promote, and lead public programs, including existing offerings such as Saginaw Murder Club and Digitization workshops
• Develop new programming responsive to community interest and collection strengths
• Represent LHG at community events and within professional organizations

Supervision and Administration

• Supervise LHG department staff; assign work, provide training, and conduct performance evaluations
• Report to the Branch Head at Hoyt Library and participate in branch and system-wide planning
• Gather data and prepare reports on collections, programs, and services

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution
• Library of Michigan Level 2 Certification (or ability to obtain)
• Experience providing direct public service in a library setting
• Demonstrated interest in archival work, local history, or genealogy

Strongly Preferred

• Experience with ArchivesSpace & Internet Archive, or comparable archival management tools
• Graduate Certificate in Archival Management or equivalent training/experience
• Familiarity with digitization practices and digital preservation workflows
• Supervisory or project lead experience
• Knowledge of genealogical research methods and resources

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $53,955 – $67,995 in (six annual steps)
• Health, dental, and life insurance
• Vacation, sick leave, and personal business time
• MERS retirement plan
• Ongoing professional development encouraged and supported

The Public Libraries of Saginaw is an equal opportunity employer.