Wikipedian-in-Residence

Description

The Historic Maryland Newspapers Project—situated within the Department of Digital Programs and Initiatives, Division of Digital Systems and Stewardship, University of Maryland Libraries—is seeking a part-time Wikipedian-in-Residence to evaluate how content from the Library of Congress’ newspaper database Chronicling America is being used on Wikipedia. Chronicling America is “a Website providing access to information about historic newspapers and select digitized newspaper pages.” It is the product of the National Digital Newspaper Program (NDNP)—a partnership between the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Library of Congress (LC)—which awards grant funding to institutions in each U.S. state and territory to digitize their historic newspapers.

Under the direction of the Historic Maryland Newspapers Librarian, the Wikipedian-in-Residence will gather and analyze statistics regarding Chronicling America in Wikipedia. Based on this analysis, the Wikipedian-in-Residence will propose the development of tools and methods that could be used to enhance the visibility of Chronicling America and discuss the resources needed for each implementation. Finally, in a written report, the Wikipedian-in-Residence will document their research and make final recommendations for tools and methods that could be implemented by participants in the NDNP in 2015.

This is a Contingent 1 position. The Wikipedian-in-Residence will work onsite for 20 hours per week for a period of 16 weeks from May thru August 2014.


Minimum Qualifications: 

Education:
Bachelor’s degree

Experience:
Candidates must be a registered Wikipedia contributor for at least one year, in good standing, and with knowledge of Wikipedia standards and practices. Candidates must be comfortable working independently to meet deadlines and goals.


Preferences: 

Education:
Student or graduate of a library science graduate program accredited by the American Library Association or equivalent professional degree. Interest in the Open or GLAM-Wiki Movements.

Experience:
Demonstrated experience performing statistical analysis, knowledge of existing tools and APIs for Wikipedia and demonstrated experience using APIs, and some coding experience are preferred.