Description
A privately held special collection of children’s books seeks an additional team member to aid in processing and cataloging new acquisitions. The primary focus of this position is monograph cataloging, falling within a workflow that includes scanning/digital photography, shelving, and other technical services work as needed (other projects may include improvement of legacy records, and preservation-related tasks).
The Library Assistant will work closely and collaboratively under the Librarian to this collection, in an effort to process the collection at item level with consistency, accuracy, and efficiency. The ideal candidate will therefore possess great attention to detail, strong communication skills, research skills, and a willingness to ask questions.
This position presents a unique opportunity to work intimately with a growing collection and make direct contributions to its research value. As an opportunity to build knowledge and skills working with special collections materials, current Library Science students are strongly encouraged to apply. Interest in rare books is a plus.
Responsibilities
– Perform original and enhanced copy-cataloging of 20th century children’s books in the MARC-based ILS LibraryWorld, with potential to move on to more complex research and cataloging projects.
– Create visual documentation of items being added to the collection (digital photography and overhead scanning).
– Organize, label, and shelve items within a proprietary classification scheme.
– Assist the Librarian with basic preservation work, i.e. building phase boxes for fragile volumes, covering dust jackets with mylar, etc.
Required qualifications
– Previous cataloging experience, and/or successful completion of a graduate-level course in information organization, cataloging and classification, metadata, or similar.
– Physical ability to work at a computer in an office environment for an extended period of time.
– Physical ability to operate a digital camera and overhead scanner (training provided).
Preferred qualifications
– Coursework toward an MLIS or similar advanced degree.
– Knowledge of library cataloging standards (RDA, MARC or AACR2) and familiarity with LCSH/LCNAF.
– Experience working with rare books that demonstrates a basic understanding of care and handling, as well as how to identify and describe them. Candidates who have worked for libraries, antiquarian booksellers, auction houses, or in similar environments, are encouraged to apply.
– Experience working with WorldCat and/or ESTC.
– Experience working with Adobe Photoshop to edit digital images.
– Knowledge in any of the following subject areas is helpful but not required: children’s literature, the history of the book, bibliography, preservation.
Location
This position is located on-site in downtown Minneapolis, MN.
Hours
This is ideally a full-time position, 9am-4pm M-F. Arrangement for a part-time/flex-time position can be made within the working hours stated.
The successful candidate will initially be hired for a discrete project of approximately 6 months, with an opportunity to transition to a long-term/permanent position. Applicants interested in either short or long-term work are welcome to apply.
Compensation
This position pays an hourly rate of $15-20, based on experience and other factors.
Apply
Application deadline: August 18, 2019.
To apply, submit a cover letter and resume to Hannah Callahan at [email protected].