Conservator, Iowa State University Library, Ames, IA
Posted April 13, 2015
Iowa State University Library is currently seeking candidates for a Conservator position at the rank of Librarian I or II. The Conservator is a key part of an active preservation department established in 1986 that includes a 3,400 sq. ft., well-equipped conservation lab for treating general circulating, and Special Collections and University Archives materials. The Conservator establishes priorities, makes treatment decisions, maintains workflows, prepares materials for exhibit and digitization, and performs conservation treatment of general and Special Collections materials. Administers the daily operations and workflows of the conservation lab, and recommends expenditures of the dedicated supply/equipment and preservation services budgets. Supervises and trains conservation staff, students, interns, and volunteers. Assists the Head of Preservation in training, education and outreach, and disaster preparedness. Develops, coordinates and implements preservation programs and leads the disaster response team. This position will also serve on divisional and library committees, teams, and task forces. Reports to the Head of Preservation.
The successful candidate will possess current and demonstrated knowledge and skill in conservation of general, special and archival collections including relevant chemistry, conservation theory and technical skills. Additionally, the successful candidate will possess exceptional organizational, analytical, time and project management skills. Excellent problem solving and decision making skills, and the ability to formulate and implement innovative approaches and solutions to problems. Work both independently and collaboratively in a rapidly changing team-based environment; interact effectively with library staff and the university community; communicate effectively, clearly, concisely, and persuasively (written and oral); and communicate complex ideas to a wide range of audiences. Lastly, demonstrate a strong commitment to public service and the land-grant mission.
This is a non-tenure track, Academic Librarian position with the opportunity for promotion. Librarians are expected to develop an external reputation through professional practice service and/or published scholarship in areas related to professional responsibilities and a record of institutional service.
Required Qualifications:
Librarian I: Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program or an advanced degree supporting a specialized key program function.
Librarian II: Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program or an advanced degree supporting a specialized key program function with at least three years of professional conservation experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Formal graduate level library and archives and/or book and paper conservation training.
- Experience in library and archives conservation of special collections and general collections, including relevant chemistry and conservation theory.
- Demonstrated experience with documenting complex treatments (written and photographic).
- Experience in an academic or research library preservation department.
- Experience with mid- to large-scale preservation department operations and workflows including environmental monitoring, integrated pest management, disaster response, digital preservation, library binding, mass deacidification, and reformatting (both analog and digital).
In addition to the above, the preferred education and experience for a position at the Librarian II level includes:
- Supervisory/managerial experience.
- Demonstrated effective and promising record of external professional practice services activities and/or research and scholarship.
ISU students, staff, and faculty strive to overcome historical and divisive biases in our society. Library staff must embrace an environment of inclusion that moves beyond simple tolerance to recognizing the richness in individual identities of people, and diverse perspectives.
Iowa State University is an EO/AA employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected Vet status.
To view full description and to apply by May 10, 2015: https://www.iastatejobs.com/ posting number 50145P OR https://www.iastatejobs.com/hr/postings/11260
For more information about:
ISU Library Preservation Department https://parkslibrarypreservation.wordpress.com
ISU Library Special Collections Department https://isuspecialcollections.