Library Associate 2 (Metadata Specialist) – University of MN Twin Cities

Job Title & Job Code: Library Associate 2 (8416A2)
Working Title: Metadata Specialist
Division: Collections & Content Strategy
Department/Unit: Cataloging, Metadata, and Digitization Services
Percent Time: 100%
Starting Salary: $43,264 plus DOQ

Service Area Overview
The Collections & Content Strategy service area provides leadership in the development, discovery, and long-term stewardship of the University of Minnesota Libraries’ wide-ranging collections. With over 7.7 million print volumes, and millions of electronic resources, the University of Minnesota Libraries’ research collections address all current and emerging areas of study at the University. Our collections are amongst the largest in the country. C&CS directs and oversees the acquisition, licensing, description, and discovery of content to meet the needs of the University community and all those interested in our collections. We also facilitate access to resources held at our extensive network of partner libraries throughout the world. The C&CS service area also develops and stewards the technologies and systems that support the metadata, fulfillment, and discovery of our robust resources for both the Twin Cities campus and the system campus libraries. We provide digitization, management, and preservation of the Libraries’ physical collections to ensure long-term, broad access to those resources in our possession. Our aim is to increase access to, and awareness of, unique resources for scholars throughout the world. We also provide services and expertise to campus content creators on our collections, intellectual property rights, and copyright information while advocating for sustainable models for scholarly communication and information sharing. We work collaboratively with Libraries staff across the University of Minnesota system, campus partners, and external partners to advance the mission of the Libraries and the University.

Primary Function
This position is responsible for cataloging materials for the Libraries’ collections in all formats, in accordance with University Libraries practices and national standards. This includes analysis and problem resolution resulting from the electronic bibliographic records batch loading process. The metadata specialist also manages the Libraries’ cataloging outsource program, which may also include supervision of student workers.

Metadata Creation, Enhancement, and Remediation (60%)
Perform original and complex copy cataloging, including appropriate subject headings, other access points, classification, and authority work for physical and electronic monographic materials in general and special collections. Work is done in accordance with local and national descriptive and encoding standards
Create/enhance metadata for digital/electronic assets and digital media in accordance with local and national descriptive and encoding standards
Perform batch loading of electronic bibliographic records. Analyze and resolve any problems resulting from this batch loading process

Project Management (20%)
Manage departmental cataloging outsourcing program with vendors and the Big Ten Academic Alliance
Manage project documentation, including creation of copyright and fair use assessments and the creation of other resources for future projects

Collaborative Efforts & Coordination (10%)
Serve as a cataloging resource for students and staff library assistants in the department for authority work, classification, subject headings, and cataloging questions
Triage and/or resolve TDX incidents/requests as appropriate.
Provide departmental training, organizing, reviewing, and monitoring of work, and assist with writing or review of documentation
Participate in committees or working groups and interact with other section members to problem-solve, create work procedures, and improve workflow
With guidance from supervisor, engage in continuing education in emerging technologies and standards through attending workshops, webinars, independent reading, or other activities

Supervision (10%)
Supervise and manage student staff, including hiring, training, and assignment of work

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience; or a combination of related education and experience to equal six years.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and professional experience with copy and original cataloging of e-resources and other formats.
• Demonstrated project management experience and success, with evidence of effective project planning, management, and completion with the ability to meet deadlines and ensure regular workflows.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in related field.
• Ability to work independently and in cooperation with colleagues from a variety of cultures and communities in a service-oriented, collaborative environment.
• Supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated leadership, problem-solving, multitasking, and organizational skills.
• Experience using Alma or similar library management system.
• Duties and Responsibilities

Department & Unit Overview
The Cataloging, Metadata, and Digitization Services (CMD) department supports the University’s mission of learning, research and outreach activities by providing well-aligned, highly functional, and distinctive information, digitization, and discovery services for use by the University and, whenever possible, the global community (e.g., HathiTrust, OCLC, Google, Digital Public Library of America.) This department is composed of two units, Cataloging & Metadata and Digitization, each of which support the strategic goals of the Libraries and University community.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [email protected] or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University’s Administrative Policy: COVID-19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit:  https://safe-campus.umn.edu/return-campus/get-the-vax

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.