Head of Cataloging and Special Collections
New York Society Library
Job posted to this site on May 10th at 10:48am
Application Deadline: June 10th 2023
Full Time
Job Description
Job title
Head of Cataloging and Special Collections
Department
Cataloging
Reports to
Director & Head Librarian
Compensation
$70,000 - $95,000, commensurate with experience
Summary
The Head of Cataloging and Special Collections is responsible for managing the Cataloging Department to ensure that all library materials, including rare books and archival items, are cataloged in an accurate and timely manner according to generally accepted and local standards and that all bibliographic, item, serial, and authority records are correctly maintained. The position also entails working with the special collections librarian in readers’ services. The Head of Cataloging & Special Collections is a member of the senior leadership team and reports directly to the Director & Head Librarian.
Minimum Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Library/Information Science from an ALA-accredited institution, or international equivalent
- Minimum of 5 years of cataloging experience, some of that time in a supervisory capacity
Professional competencies
- Demonstrated success in personnel management including the ability to foster team commitment and trust; to prepare and support staff through change; to inspire team members; and to foster creativity and innovation.
- Demonstrated ability to manage change by developing workable implementation plans; communicating changes effectively; and monitoring transition and evaluating results
- Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated organizational and project-planning skills.
- Ability to work independently and collegially.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with staff, colleagues, and Library users.
- Experience providing public service and instruction in a library setting.
- Demonstrated commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Preferred skills and qualifications
- Experience with Innovative Interfaces Sierra Integrated Library System and OCLC
- Familiarity with the Dewey Decimal classification system
- Conversancy with MARC standards for RDA and AACRII cataloging and with the creation of DCRM(B) and DCRM(MSS) records.
- Familiarity with Library of Congress subject headings and rule interpretations
- Reading knowledge of Latin and/or at least one Western European language
Duties and responsibilities
- Set priorities for cataloging activities, including short-term and long-term projects.
- Plan, organize, and execute departmental projects and work with other department heads on interdepartmental projects.
- Supervise the workflow and activities of the cataloging and special collections departments and manage staff engagement.
- Hire, train and evaluate cataloging department staff.
- Collaborate with cataloging staff to review and ensure consensus on classification and authority control work.
- Recommend and/or establish local cataloging policies.
- Coordinate activities with the acquisitions and circulation departments to ensure the practical and timely processing and availability of Library materials.
- Perform original and complex cataloging of Library materials, including special collections.
- Respond to special collections reference inquiries and assist readers in using these Library materials.
- Create reports and collect data on cataloging activities and monitor the effectiveness of the department monthly.
- Coordinate the installation of ILS software upgrades.
- Improve and adapt the online catalog and enhance discoverability of Library materials.
- Provide reference services on the public reference desk.
- Maintain compliance with all Library policies and procedures.
Working conditions
Full-time; scheduled during Library hours including evenings and weekends as required. Schedule subject to change. Quiet conditions.
Physical/Environmental Requirements
Physical:
Sitting: 60-80% Standing/Walking: 20-40% Lifting: Occasional lifting up to 30 lbs. Vision: Requires long periods of work at computers.
Environmental:
Indoor environment; Working closely with others and independently. Occasional exposure to dust.
Direct reports
Special Collections Librarian, Cataloging and Metadata Librarian, Catalog Librarian, Bibliographic Assistant.
Compensation
$70,000 - $95,000, commensurate with experience
How to Apply
Potential candidates should email a cover letter, resume, and the names of three (3) professional references with contact information to Carolyn Waters, Director & Head Librarian at cwaters@nysoclib.org with “Head of Cataloging & Special Collections” in the subject line. For best consideration, applications should be provided by May 22.
Proof of full vaccination will be required.
About The Library
The New York Society Library is a membership library. Founded in 1754, it is New York City’s oldest library and remains a vital, thriving cultural institution. The Library is open to all for reading, reference, and selected events, with book circulation and other services by subscription. The beautiful landmarked building dates from 1917 and includes reading rooms, spaces for study, book stacks holding approximately 300,000 volumes, and the Assunta, Ignazio, Ada and Romano Peluso Exhibition Gallery. The Library also hosts a variety of special events, reading groups, and workshops, as well as the New York City Book Awards. Visit our website at nysoclib.org for more information.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The New York Society Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Location
The New York Society LibraryCompensation
$70,000 - $95,000 yearly
Application URL or Email
Submit specified application materials to cwaters@nysoclib.org.