The UVA Library is seeking three students to engage in planning, promotion, and research as we host a year’s worth of events that explore cognition and creativity AFK (away from keyboard).  Students will work throughout the 2026-2027 academic year as the Library (with funding from the Arts Council) offers the community the opportunity to explore uniquely tactile books; use weaving, music, and hand printing as forms of inquiry; and delve into what happens when we log off and tune in.  Work will include collaborating with Special Collections librarians to promote and host 3-4 events throughout the year that showcase UVA Library’s rich collection of artists’ books.  This collaboration will also include ongoing promotion related to the artists’ book collection through researched blog posts, social media, and more.  Programming Consultants will assist other AFK events around the library throughout the year with promotion and general support.  In addition, students in this position may be asked to contribute to efforts to collect and document ways that the University of Virginia is engaging with unplugged pedagogy, embodied research, and other themes reflected in AFK programs.

FWSA (i.e., Work-Study) eligibility preferred, but not required. Work-Study employment is effective from August 25, 2026 - May 14, 2027.

The pay rate for this position is $20/hour.

The position will report to Rebecca Coleman, Librarian for Architecture, but will work closely with various members of the AFK planning team across the Library.

This is a wage position. The expected commitment is 40hrs per semester, with an average of approximately 3 hours per week.

To apply, please include a resume and cover letter.

Desired Skills

• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills

• Experience using library catalogs and databases for research and citations

• Ability to work independently and in collaboration

• Dependability and accuracy

• Attention to detail

• Must be able to communicate verbally in a clear manner

Preferred Skills & Knowledge

• Experience with research related to art, rare books, or related fields

• Knowledge of (or interest in) libraries and the arts

• Experience promoting events and/or information

• Experience planning events

Responsibilities (will be distributed between hired students based on experience, interest, and need.)

• Work with Special Collections librarians plan and facilitate events that allow the community to interact with UVA Library’s artists’ book collection

• Contribute to the creation of blog posts and social media content promoting artists’ books in our collections

• Provide support for the promotion and planning of other AFK program events as needed

• Collaborate with the library to develop a stronger understanding of activities and initiatives around Grounds that are exploring analog, tactile, and embodied learning

• Attendance at some in-person events will be expected, though some of this work can be completed remotely.  Work with the artists’ books must be completed in the Special Collections library reading room, during operating hours.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Registered as an undergraduate student.

Experience: none

Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require walking some distance to attend and assist with programs.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.