Public Affairs Specialist - Media Relations

Public Affairs Specialist - Media Relations

LEGISLATIVE BRANCH

Library of Congress

Summary

This position is located in the Office of The Librarian, Office of Communications & External Relations Directorate in the Office of The Librarian.

The position description number for this position is 360665.

Duties

The Library of Congress (LOC) Office of Communications (OC) ensures that the image of, and information about, the Library is accurate and reflects the mission of the organization. It fosters and increases public awareness of the Library, defines and targets audiences for its public-affairs programs and assesses the effectiveness of those programs.

Under the supervision of the Chief of Media Relations, the Public Affairs Specialist will be responsible for producing news releases, newspaper- and magazine­ style pieces suitable for publication, website content and other written materials. The successful candidate will also engage in direct, telephonic or email contact with members of the media and will coordinate visuals for media stories in print, online and television.

Prepare, with supervision, news releases, articles or op-eds to be proposed for publication, and website material using a voice and terminology appropriate to the situation or the audience; perform outreach to media and other interested parties regarding pending Library news conferences, concerts, seminars, book talks or other events to promote attendance and news coverage. Assist with providing recommendations for new projects and shifts in program objectives. Analyze public and media reaction to the Library's programs and policies and develop strategies to let the Library establish, maintain and build on positive perception of its programs, policies, services and activities. Gather input from individuals and groups. Develop varied strategies to communicate the Library's objectives to various groups. Establish and maintain effective working relationships at multiple levels within the Library in order to develop and disseminate coordinated messages that accurately address Library programs.

Support public affairs outreach for a specific set of Library programs and issues, identifying opportunities to reach new audiences with information and content developed in consultation with various Library staff.

Perform other Office of Communications duties as required, including group-based planning activities, hosting film crews, support of such major events as the National Book Festival and the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, launching of new Library exhibitions or Library of Congress projects.