The Hispanic Society Museum & Library (HSM&L) is seeking a freelance librarian to help assess the library collections and operations of the HSM&L. Under the supervision and guidance of the Head of Modern Library, the consultant will work on meeting the assessment objectives, including determining collection size and subject coverage, and will provide a set of recommendations for further action.

The goal is to assess the state of Modern Library holdings and operations such as acquisitions, cataloging, OPAC, card catalogs, Reading Room, etc. The assessment is already underway. The library staff has already completed the physical inventory for the Modern Library. The freelance librarian will assist with the remaining stages of the assessment, including, but not limited to, a full inventory of periodicals. The overall objectives are listed below:  

Assessment Objectives

• Determine collection size and subject coverage
• Define collection strengths and weaknesses—How effectively does the collection support our institutional mission?
• Determine space occupied and growth rate
• Define physical locations
• Define existing collection access/discovery tools and which tools are needed
• Provide summary and recommendations
  • Summary of findings
  • Recommendation on collection development
  • Recommendation on weeding/deaccessioning
  • Recommendation on tools/software/equipment/staffing

Experience & Skills Required

• Master of Library Science from ALA-accredited institution
• Has participated in at least one library assessment
• Familiar with all aspects of professional librarianship
• Can see the big picture as well as get down to brass tacks
• Reading knowledge of Spanish

Preferred Experience

• Experience conducting library assessments, including writing up findings and recommendations
• Familiar with Hispanic art and literature

Compensation

• $35-45 per hour (approximately 20 hours per week)
  • Based on skills and experience

Application Instructions

Send resume with a brief statement about your experience conducting library assessments.  Email materials to jobs@hispanicsociety.org. Please write “Freelance Librarian” in the subject line of email. 

Submit specified application materials to jobs@hispanicsociety.org.