Special Collections & Archives Librarian

Description

Provides vision and leadership in building and managing the extensive Special Collections and Archives of the Rakow Research Library.   Works closely with the Chief Librarian and the Associate Librarian for Collection Management to develop processes and systems for the acquisition, processing and description, access, and preservation of special collections in all formats. Creates inventories and finding aids. Co-manages the Museum’s institutional archive in physical and digital formats. Works with the Library’s digitization team, Museum staff and with outside constituents to develop and maintain a digitization program for preservation of and access to unique collections.

Responsibilities:

• Provides leadership in the acquisition, accessioning, preservation and promotion of the Rakow Library’s special collections and archives.
• Proposes, implements and oversees procedures for the processing, care and use of the Library’s special collections and archives.
• Accessions, provides stewardship for and facilitates access to archival collections in accordance with current archival best practices.
• Creates inventories and finding aids; trains and supervises staff in the processing of archives and creation of finding aids.
• In collaboration with the Associate Librarian for Collection Management, manages the Museum’s institutional archive in physical and digital formats.
• In collaboration with the Chief Librarian, the Curators and the Executive Director, cultivates new collections and donor relationships.
• Participates in Library outreach and the marketing of Special Collections and Archives.
• Develops partnerships at the local, regional, national, and international level to address issues and challenges facing special collections in the digital environment.
• Keeps current with best practices and emerging technologies in special collections and archives, including EAD, DACS and digitization.
• Participates in and supports exhibition initiatives.
• Contributes to Special Collections-related operations, as needed, including working on the Library’s reference desk.
• Manages the Special Collections internship program and supervises temporary associates and volunteers as required.
• Serves as a member of the Library’s administrative team.

Qualifications:

• ALA-accredited MLS or MLIS degree.
• Minimum three years of experience in library special collections or archives.
• Strong understanding of current and emerging issues and trends in special collections and archives.
• Demonstrated knowledge of current library/archival systems and metadata standards, including EAD and DACs.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience using standards, best practices, and supporting infrastructure for digital archives and digital special collections.
• Supervisory experience in an academic or special library setting desired.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, organization, problem-solving and analytic skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as a team member.
• Background in subject fields related to the library’s collections, including art, history, material science, desired.
• Experience with grant writing and management desired.
• Ability to work with foreign language materials.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
• Ability to respond to users with diverse needs.