Job Opening: Local Historian / Genealogist (Part-Time)
Local Historian / Genealogist (Part-Time)
Department: Library Services
Reports to: Library Director
Schedule: Part-time, two days per week (approximately 12–16 hours; schedule flexible)
Position Type: Non-exempt / Hourly
Position Summary
The Commerce Public Library seeks a Local Historian/Genealogist with a strong interest in digital archives, community engagement, oral history, and resource development. This part-time position focuses on preserving, digitizing, and promoting the community’s historical and genealogical materials while supporting sustainability efforts through grant research and applications. The position works closely with library staff, volunteers, and community members to document, preserve, and share local history.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Digital Archives & Collections
● Coordinate and assist with the digitization of local history and genealogical materials, including photographs, documents, newspapers, and ephemera
● Work with volunteers to scan, describe, and catalog materials using established standards and best practices
● Create and maintain metadata, inventories, and basic finding aids for digital collections
● Assist with organizing, preserving, and improving access to both physical and digital local history collections
● Help identify priorities for digitization based on condition, demand, and historical significance
● Appraise, accession, and organize local history and archival materials following archival principles scaled for public library environments
● Perform collection accession and deaccession in compliance with Texas State Library and Archives Commission accreditation standards.
Patron Services & Research
● Meet with patrons in person and remotely to discuss local history and genealogical research requests
● Conduct and guide research related to family histories, historic properties, organizations, cemeteries, and community events
● Respond to reference inquiries and provide documentation of research findings when appropriate
Oral History & Community Documentation
● Identify and interview individuals of historical interest to gather and document local history
● Assist with planning, conducting, and preserving oral history interviews in accordance with ethical and archival standards
● Organize, catalog, and provide access to recorded interviews and related materials
Volunteer Coordination
● Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers assisting with digitization, cataloging, and documentation projects
● Develop workflows, written procedures, and training materials to support volunteer work
● Provide oversight to ensure accuracy, consistency, and proper handling of materials
Grants & Resource Development
● Research grant opportunities related to local history, archives, digitization, and preservation
● Assist with preparing and submitting grant applications in collaboration with the Library Director and/or development staff
● Gather supporting documentation, narratives, budgets, and outcome data for grant proposals
● Assist with basic tracking and reporting requirements for awarded grants as related to the position’s projects
Public Engagement & Programming
● Present one to two public programs or presentations per year on local history, genealogy, or archival topics
● Curate one to three rotating exhibits or displays annually using materials from the library’s collections
● Assist with planning and supporting the library’s annual gala and other special events
Outreach & Communications
● Create and post regular social media content highlighting local history and archival materials (e.g., “Throwback Thursday” features)
● Promote digital collections, programs, exhibits, and events through the library’s communication channels
● Collaborate with staff to develop engaging storytelling around historical materials
Other Duties
● Build relationships with local historical societies, genealogical groups, and community partners
● Perform other related duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
● Demonstrated experience with local history, genealogy, archives, oral history, or public history
● Experience or familiarity with digitization workflows, metadata, and digital collections
● Experience conducting research and working directly with patrons and community members
● Ability to train and supervise volunteers
● Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills
● Basic computer skills, including proficiency with email, internet research, and file management
● Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint (or comparable software)
● Comfort with technology, including scanners, databases, recording equipment, and social media platforms
Preferred Qualifications
● Degree or coursework in history, library science, archival studies, museum studies, public history, or a related field
● Knowledge of the local community’s history and records
● Genealogical research experience (including use of census records, vital records, newspapers, and online genealogy databases)
● Experience conducting oral history interviews
● Experience with digital asset management systems or online archival platforms
● Experience researching and writing grant applications
● Public programming, exhibit curation, or outreach experience
Physical and Working Conditions
● Ability to regularly use stairs throughout the library building
● Ability to lift, carry, and move materials and boxes weighing up to 25 pounds
● Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
● Work performed primarily in a library and archival environment
● Regular public service interaction
● Handling of fragile and unique materials
● Occasional evening or weekend programs
Compensation
● Hourly wage: $10/ hr
Application Process
Interested applicants should submit:
● A brief letter of interest
● A resume outlining relevant experience
Applications should be submitted to director@commercepubliclibrary.org. This position is open to both internal and external candidates. The application period will remain open until the position is filled.