Temporary Senior Librarian, Cambridge Room Library Archivist

Posted September 8, 2014

18 hr per week, including nights and Saturdays as needed.

Estimated time is October 2014 through February 2015, with some extension possible 

QUALIFICATIONS:           

Master’s Degree from an ALA accredited school of library science with course work or concentration in archival procedures, management, and preservation strongly preferred.  A minimum of two years of post-MLS experience in archival services preferred, preferably in a public library.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

• Thorough knowledge of  archival principles, techniques, services and resources
• Knowledge of principles and practices of archival cataloging and inventory control
• Knowledge of and interest in history and genealogy relevant to Cambridge
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, including the ability to speak knowledgeably and effectively before groups
•  Ability to work in an environment containing airborne particles (mold or mildew)
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions
• Ability to work independently and solve problems, as well as adaptability and dependability to work well in a team situation
• Flexibility in emergency staffing situations

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:    

• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods of time to use computer workstations, including keyboard and visual display terminal
• Strength to push or pull a loaded book cart which can weigh in excess of 100 pounds on level floor and up ramp, to lift or maneuver onto cart loads of up to 50 pounds, and to carry cartons of books
• Must be able to pay close attention to details and concentrate on work
• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities which permit effective communication
• Sufficient vision or other powers of observation to permit employee to read books and patron requests
• Sufficient manual dexterity which permits the employee to type and record library files
• Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes which permits the employee to re-shelve library materials and work at public service desks

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Works in assigned areas, including office areas, training rooms, library locations, as necessary. Normal office exposure to noise, stress, and interruptions; exposure to dust and other airborne particles.

DUTIES:

• Receives and processes as appropriate Cambridge historical materials.  May coordinate collection activities with other City agencies and local organizations with overlapping interests.
• Ensures that all historical materials are preserved, stored and handled according to archival standards
• Serves as system-wide subject specialist in the areas of Cambridge history and genealogy to the public in person, on the telephone, by mail, or by electronic means
• Assists users in finding Cambridge history and genealogy materials as needed and provides basic instruction to users in the areas of Cambridge history and genealogy
• Provides users with general information about library services and directs them to other personnel as needed
• May work collaboratively with the Cambridge archives committee and any other relevant groups to promote awareness of the collection and to develop mutually beneficial promotional materials, finding aids and other resources
• Maintains order and neatness in the collection
• Develops finding aids for current and new acquisitions
• Processes existing and donated materials in accordance with professional archival standards
• Operates the Cambridge Room during advertised hours and by appointment
• Develops ongoing exhibits and displays (real and virtual) to highlight the collections of the Cambridge Room and to promote their use
• Develops and presents tours, presentations and workshops about the Cambridge Room’s collections to community groups, students, professional colleagues and other interested individuals and groups as required by supervisor
• Keeps statistics of the daily use and activities of the Cambridge Room and its collections
• Attends staff, professional and community meetings and participates in library and community events as determined appropriate by supervisor
• Keeps abreast of archival trends and developments
• Maintains a virtual presence for the Cambridge Room through the library’s web page
• Any other duties as assigned

SALARY: $28.92 per hour

APPLY TO:              

City of Cambridge
Personnel Department, Room 309
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139

Please send 2 copies each of cover letter & resume
Fax: 617-349-4312
[email protected]

DEADLINE: 5:00pm on September 11, 2014