Please note that both scholarship and non-scholarship students are eligible for this position.
A Reference GRA’s primary duty is to answer research-related questions while at the Law Library’s Reference Desk. GRAs are also required to complete library projects, such as creating topical research guides, grading Research Methods in Law homework, making bulletin boards, conducting research for law librarians, and writing blog posts for The Blackacre Times.
Reference GRAs are expected to assist many different types of library users, including: law students, undergraduate students, paralegals, attorneys, law and undergraduate faculty, and self-represented litigants. While the law library does provide research assistance to all of these library users, we cannot and do not offer legal advice. Rather, we direct users to resources which may provide an answer and instruct them on how to use the resource to find that answer.
Reference GRAs should be well-versed in the various types of legal resources, both print and electronic, as well as when to best use each of these tools. GRAs need to have excellent customer service skills, patience, quick thinking, and to offer a response in a timely manner. Reference GRAs often work without a supervisor present, and must be able to keep themselves on task and provide written reports to a supervisor. They should also be detail-oriented. Previous experience in a library or similar setting is a plus.
Reference GRAs work 10 hours per week (while classes are in session). GRAs should expect to complete some, if not most, of their work on evenings and weekends. For this, GRAs receive the following compensation:
- Summer: ½ tuition waiver and $500 stipend
- Fall/Spring: ½ tuition waiver and $1,000 stipend
The library is currently hiring one reference GRAs for the Spring 2019. To apply for the position, please send a resume and cover letter to Patrick Parsons at pparsons@gsu.edu by November 20. Make sure to include that you are applying for the reference GRA position in the subject line, and appropriately tailor your cover letter and resume to the position. Please note that our current open position is for Tues/Thursday 6-8, Saturdays 1-6.