Photograph Archivist, Mary Baker Eddy Library, Boston, MA
Posted June 23, 2016
SUMMARY
The Photograph Archivist works closely with the Curator and the Research Archivist/Archivist to arrange, describe, and maintain the image collections managed by The Mary Baker Eddy Library (MBEL). These include the Historic Photograph Collection, photographs in the organizational archives, photographs of Library exhibits and programs. This position also assists in the planning for documenting and maintaining these collections.
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Follows archival standards to ensure the long term care and preservation of the photo collection. Catalogs photographs, creating records in collection management systems or editing existing records. As needed, researches in archival collections to locate information on photographs.
- Develops policies and procedures for The Mary Baker Eddy Library in regard to the arrangement, description, and preservation of photograph collections.
- Oversees large-scale photo collection processing projects.
- Trains staff and interns on proper care and handling of photographic materials.
- Provides photo collections reference services and research assistance to patrons of the Library (both internal and external) via email, telephone, and in person.
- Works collaboratively with MBEL staff on exhibits and programs.
- Collaborates with the Office of General Counsel on issues of rights, permissions, and use pertaining to photographic services.
- Manages the fulfillment of orders for image use, reproduction, and permissions as well as for invoices to be produced and payments to be made.
- Collaborates (in conjunction with Office of Records Management, Curator, and Research and Reference Services) with other departments to assess photographs from other collections and to plan and implement digitization projects.
- Oversees interns as needed.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
Education/Experience
- Master’s degree in Library and Information Science.
- Demonstrated specific experience (1-3 years) or coursework in working with image collections and in archives management. This should include training in image handling and care.
Knowledge/Skills
- Knowledge of digital asset management systems, collection management systems, and/or archive collection management systems. This would include knowledge of metadata standards and controlled vocabularies for archives, museums, and news organizations; familiarity with Re:discovery/Proficio and Merlin a plus.
- Familiarity with photographic processes, including digitization on flatbed scanners, and
image manipulation software such as Photoshop. - Experience in historical research as well as the ability to quickly learn about and recognize significant people, places, and events captured in images that relate to Mary Baker Eddy, The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and its affiliates, the history of the Christian Science movement, and The Christian Science Monitor.
- Flexibility and eagerness to learn; a team player.
- General knowledge of standards of rights and reproduction a plus.