National Office Librarian at BirdLife Australia

About the role

Birdlife Australia’s Volunteer Librarian position is a part-time role that involves managing the H. L. White Library collection and providing support to the organisation’s research and conservation efforts.

The position reports to the Analytics and Scientific Publications Coordinator and requires experience in working with automated library systems and supervising volunteer staff.

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As a Volunteer Librarian, you will

• Manage the library collection of monographs, serials, and electronic resources.
• Develop and maintain the collection development policy (CDP).
• Create and maintain accurate catalogue records within the Koha open-source library system.
• Regularly assess the relevance of the collection and discard or add items according to the CDP.
• Maintain serials control and update journal catalogue records.
• Provide guidance within Birdlife Australia for legal deposit, copyright, and ISBN compliance.
• Answer reference enquiries from staff, members, and non-members.
• Assist libraries in Perth, Gluepot, Sydney, and Broome to contribute to the union catalogue.
• Provide regular reports on the status of the library in terms of use, relevance, and accessibility.
• Inform staff on the range and scope of the library materials and their access.

Key requirements

• Professional qualifications (eligibility criteria as established by ALIA).
• Experience in working with automated library systems, general online library-related environments, networked organisational environments, and Microsoft applications.
• An understanding of the organisational relationships working as a volunteer.
• Experience in supervising volunteer staff.
• Knowledge of ornithology/zoology/conservation desirable.

This role is suited to someone who would like to:

• Gain valuable experience in the field of ornithology and conservation.
• Contribute to the largest ornithological library in Australia.
• Work with a team of passionate and dedicated volunteers and staff.
• Develop skills in library management and collection development.
• Enhance your resume and gain references for future employment opportunities.

OH&S Policy

Volunteers and potential volunteers should be aware that the requirements of the position include long periods of sedentary desk and computer duties, as well as possible lifting and moving of heavy equipment and objects.

How to apply:

To apply for the role, please provide your work and volunteer history, references, and a brief response to  the key requirements in the form below.