Research Librarian Employment Contract UK

Responsibilities reflected in the contract

• Conduct structured literature and information searches.
• Support researchers with databases and sources.
• Document strategies results and citation details.
• Deliver training in research information skills.
• Manage access rights and complex enquiries.

A realistic working scenario

On a typical day the Research Librarian (Graduate) answers structured research enquiries, runs database and repository searches, updates catalogue and circulation entries, assists with acquisitions paperwork, completes handovers and flags licence, access or preservation exceptions to the library manager or head of service.

Outputs to agree

• Provide literature searches, database queries and research briefings recorded in research logs.
• Create and update catalogue and classification entries in the library management system.
• Process acquisitions requests and update acquisitions and licence records for supplier orders.
• Run circulation checks, resolve availability queries and complete shift handovers.
• Log preservation, handling or access exceptions and notify the library manager or head of service.

Records and evidence

• Catalogue and classification entries in the library management system.
• Acquisitions, purchase request and licence records for publishers and suppliers.
• Research enquiry logs and search strategy records.
• Circulation and item availability records, including holds and recalls.
• Handover checklists and shift completion reports.
• Work records.

Reporting relationship

Typically reports to Line Manager or Department Manager. Confirm the employer's actual reporting structure in the builder.

Authority and escalation

• May prioritise and close routine enquiries, update catalogue and circulation records, and record recommendations in acquisitions and licence systems. The employee must not approve purchases, licence terms, access exceptions, preservation interventions for fragile items or formal safeguarding actions. Such approvals or formal escalations must be raised to the library manager or head of service with the relevant records attached.
• Obtain approval before committing expenditure, changing contractual commitments or making regulated or staffing decisions outside the assigned role.

Tools and systems

• Learning platforms.
• Assessment records.
• Classroom equipment.

Workplace context

• Office, client premises, remote systems or assigned work locations.

Contract priorities

• Keep catalogue, acquisitions, licence and research enquiry records accurate and current.
• Escalate licensing, access exceptions, preservation risks and safeguarding disclosures promptly to the library manager or head of service.
• Use the library management system, repository and acquisitions systems only for authorised research librarian work.
• Complete shift handovers, checks and required reports at the end of duties.
• Protect customer, supplier and role-specific records, including personal data, while handling enquiries and systems.

Information the employer should prepare

• the subject areas users and service levels
• the databases licences and document supply
• the search review and quality method
• the training project and publication duties
• the confidentiality and research-data controls