Contract Book Cataloger, The Trustees, Sharon, MA
Posted January 26, 2017
Summary of Position:
The Book Cataloger will be responsible for updating and/or creating records in Past Perfect, The Trustees museum collection software. The books to be cataloged are a part of the nearly 3,000 volume book collection of the Old Manse. The Old Manse, a National Historic Landmark, was a focal point in Concord Massachusetts’ cultural, political, theological, literary, and social development during the 18th and 19th centuries. The books represent the remarkable intellectual pursuits of the inhabitants of the house over many generations. To help care for this collection The Trustees received an IMLS Museums for America grant to support work on this collection, in the hopes of re-invigorating interpretation of the site, and allow visitors and researchers improved access to the house’s collection.
The Book Cataloger will be overseen by Senior Curator and the Head Archivist. The Digital Archivist will also be reviewing the records that will be shared online. While initially, this position may require reporting to work at the ARC in Sharon, MA, there is the possibility of working remotely. This is a part-time position that we hope to begin in February, 2017 and have completed by April 1st, 2017.
Essential Functions:
- Enhance the current catalog records to include the physical description, Library of Congress subject headings, and names of people, as well as any other essential information.
- With the guidance of the Head Archivist, identify books that would be worth adding to the WorldCat online catalog.
- Prepare complete MARC records for items identified for WorldCat inclusion and assist The Trustees through the submission process.
- Check a select number of books against other institutions’ holdings for rarity.
- Work with Trustees staff to identify books that will return to the Old Manse.
- Implement common book cataloging standards and procedures as specified by the Society of American Archivists, the American Library Association, Library of Congress, and other nationally recognized authorities.
Minimum Requirements:
Education and Experience:
Current enrollment or completion of Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-
accredited institution (or equivalent advanced degree).
Skills/Qualifications:
- Knowledge of current principles and methods of book and rare manuscript cataloging, arrangement, description, procedures including best practices for metadata creation.
- Competency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Demonstrated experience cataloging books, preferably using MARC standards.
- Experience contributing records to WorldCat preferred. Demonstrated ability to work well with a team of diverse professionals to produce a high quality outcome on time.
- A proven, passionate commitment to the values, mission and purposes represented by The Trustees of Reservations.
- Ability to work efficiently and meticulously.
- Demonstrated problem solving skills.
- Experience with archival or records management software. (Knowledge of PastPerfect Museum software is a plus.)
- Knowledge of and experience e with the proper care and handling of fragile books and materials.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Excellent organizational skills and ability to plan, coordinate, and implement complex projects.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Able to work remotely.
Other:
While performing the duties of this job, the Book Cataloger may be required to lift and/or move up to 40 pounds unassisted, carry large books, and climb and reach on step stools and rolling ladders.
Organizational Relationships/Scope:
The Book Cataloger reports to the Senior Curator and Head Archivist. Scope of the project is 180 hours over a 3 month period.
Contact:
Interested candidates should send a cover letter along with a resume and salary requirements to Senior Curator, Christie Jackson, or Head Archivist, Nicole Lapenta , The Trustees of Reservations, 396 Moose Hill Street, Sharon, MA 02067 or email to [email protected] or [email protected]. No phone calls please.