SLIS Jobline Your Source for Professional, Pre-Professional, and Internship Positions

Cataloger, Worcester Public Library, Worcester, MA

Posted March 3, 2017

This is a professional position under the immediate supervision of the Head of Knowledge and Access Resource Management Services (KARMS), and under the overall direction of the Head Librarian. The individual in this role will be responsible for cataloging materials in all formats and all subject areas, including special collections materials, and will perform original and enhanced cataloging activities in support of the needs of the entire Worcester Public Library system.

SALARY: $44,852.70 – $65,264.96 annually; $21.49 – $31.27 hourly

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Organizes and catalogs materials according to priorities developed by the Division Supervisor
  • Downloads OCLC records, catalogs and processes materials in all formats including but not limited to monographs, serials, DVDs, Books on CD, music CDs, games, realia and World Language materials
  • Performs original (including complex) and copy cataloging of all formats of library materials and adapts online records according to guidelines in all subject areas and languages to facilitate their identification, access, retrieval and use
  • Interprets and applies Library of Congress (LC) Subject Headings, the Dewey Decimal Classification System, the AACR2, RDA, and Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) manuals in cataloging and classifying library materials
  • Participates in the evaluation and cataloging of historical materials from the Dr. Green and other special collections. Identifies and prioritizes materials in need of conservation and places materials in appropriate archival housing.
  • Determines appropriate treatments for series or multipart items in cases where the default treatment (fully analyzed, traced, and classified separately) has not yet been established in the authority file
  • Creates item records, assigns classification numbers and prints spine labels for each physical item
  • Works closely with subject specialists and reference librarians to provide intellectual and physical access to materials in a timely manner. Assists supervisor to improve cataloging processes by participating in discussions of cataloging standards and policies/procedures and assists in updating Cataloging Manual
  • Conducts complex searching and researching in English and foreign languages to establish appropriate form of main entries, added entries and place names; assign main entries and subject headings; determine edition statements, imprints, collations and series notes
  • Creates statistical reports for material selectors and supervisors that will assist in collection development and weeding projects
  • Provides exemplary reference and reader’s advisory duties as an adjunct Reference Librarian, on Saturdays as scheduled
  • Interprets and applies general library policies and procedures to the public in a customer friendly manner
  • Collaborates with a team of professional and paraprofessional staff
  • Contributes to creating an environment oriented to trust, open communication, creative thinking, and a cohesive team effort
  • Maintains a working knowledge of library resources and an awareness of new resources and technologies by actively participating in staff development, training opportunities, and committee work
  • Performs other tasks, as assigned, consistent with the functions of the work unit and level of responsibility

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATION STANDARDS FOR PERFORMING ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Demonstrated knowledge of the Dewey Decimal Classification System, AACR2, RDA, and LCSH
  • Demonstrated ability to apply the following cataloging tools: Resource Description and Access (RDA), the Anglo-American Cataloguing Rules (AACR2r), Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) and classification, and MARC21 formats for bibliographic and authority data 
  • Experience in cataloging materials through a cataloging utility such as OCLC or Evergreen in an integrated library system environment 
  • Ability to learn various and complex computerized cataloging systems
  • Demonstrated knowledge of standard bibliographic sources, bibliographic form, and verification tools
  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communications skills and the ability to communicate with professional and paraprofessional staff about concepts, ideas, and requirements
  • Working experience with spreadsheet and database technology and software
  • Flexibility in prioritizing multiple projects, ability to problem-solve, and propensity for details
  • High level of professionalism and commitment to the organization
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of patron information
  • Ability to push book carts and bins loaded with library materials
  • Ability to stand and or sit for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to perform bending, stooping, lifting, pushing, and twisting
  • Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm motions for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to reach and retrieve library materials at high and low shelf heights
  • Ability to move or lift 50 lbs. or less
  • Knowledge of the principles and correct usage of the English language including grammar, punctuation and spelling

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: M.L.S. from a program accredited by the American Library Association or approved by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners

Experience: One year of professional public library experience in original and copy cataloging and classification of all formats of library materials using Dewey Decimal or Library of Congress classification, LC subject headings, machine readable (MARC) records, Anglo American Cataloging Rules, Revised and familiarity with Resource Description and Access (RDA)

Preferred: Working knowledge of archival theory, practice and national standards, and best practices that govern arrangement, description, and processing activities. Experience cataloging foreign language materials also preferred

Schedule: Includes evenings, weekends, and assignments to other departments and locations

Travel: Ability to travel to required locations in a timely manner. A valid driver’s license is required

CORI/SORI: Must pass a Criminal/Sex Offender Background check

To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume, cover letter on or before Friday, March 17, 2017 to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. EOE/AA employer.

The information in this summary indicates the general nature and level of work performed within this role. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position.

The Worcester Public Library makes every effort to support ALA’s “Core Competences of Librarianship” http://www.ala.org/educationcareers/careers/corecomp/corecompetences as approved and adopted by the ALA Council, January 27, 2009 and, as an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer, values diversity and aims to have its workforce reflect the community.

Professional Job Listings in New England Public Library Positions