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Project Archivist, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

Posted April 19, 2018

Job ID:  2018493

Title:     Project Archivist             

Rank:     Program Specialist II (UCP 7)

Area:     University Archives, Special Collections & Digital Curation

 

The University of Connecticut Library seeks an innovative and knowledgeable individual to serve as Project Archivist. Under the direction of the Head of Archives and Special Collections, and within the larger context of the unit, the Project Archivist is responsible for all activities related to the Maurice Sendak collection and performs the bulk of the work to integrate the collection into the UConn Archives and Library’s management and access systems, as well as developing and leading outreach activities related to the collection. For example, the Project Archivist is responsible for developing ideas for outreach and educational uses of the collection; and preparing, mounting, and documenting exhibitions in multiple formats and for multiple audiences. Additionally, the archivist is responsible for managing requests for materials that involve more than reading room access. This includes executing loan agreements and collateral paperwork, and for receiving and returning material to storage, and working with the Literary Agent to prepare material for re-publication.

 

Along with all UConn Library staff, the Project Archivist makes a positive contribution to a culture of inclusion and respect in all interactions within the Library and across the University. This five-year, end-date position is funded by a grant from The Maurice Sendak Foundation and comes with a full benefits package.

 

About the Sendak Collection and the UConn Archives and Special Collections

 

In February, 2018 UConn and the Maurice Sendak Foundation signed an agreement to house and maintain the finished artwork for Maurice Sendak’s published books, and as well as manuscripts, sketches, and other related materials created by Sendak, considered the leading artist of children’s books in the 20th century. The artwork and source materials for books such as Where the Wild Things Are, In the Night Kitchen and Outside Over There, will serve as a resource for research by students, faculty, staff, scholars and the general public through the Archives & Special Collections in the UConn Library. Special Collections at UConn include the Northeast Children’s Literature Collection, an archive of notable authors and illustrators of children’s literature native to or identified with the Northeast and East Coast of the United States, including James Marshall, Tomie DePaola, and Richard Scary. The collection, established in 1989, preserves every aspect of children’s book production – from the initial correspondence to preliminary drawings, finished art, dummies, mechanicals, proofs, galleys, and manuscripts.

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Plans and executes public outreach activities that highlight collection.
  2. Manages digitization program for the collection.
  3. Collaborates with faculty to integrate collections into undergraduate and graduate courses.
  4. Provides advanced research consultation related to the collection, including responding to reference questions and meeting with researchers one-on-one.
  5. Promotes the collection making use of current tools, such as social media.
  6. Responsible for the receipt and intake of newly acquired materials.

 

 

SHARED EXPECTATIONS FOR ALL STAFF 

  1. Participates in planning and actively contributes to Area and Unit priorities, initiatives, and operations through collaboration and cooperation.
  2. Demonstrates reliable and effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
  3. Maintains currency and open communication in ongoing trends and developments related to position responsibilities.
  4. Works effectively in current office applications, software, and communication tools as set by the UConn Library and University of Connecticut.
  5. Exhibits appreciation of, sensitivity to, and respect for a diverse working environment, inclusive of social, economic, cultural, ideological, gender, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.
  6. Performs duties parallel to position responsibilities as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Master’s degree in an academic discipline related to archives and public programming for example, ALA-accredited MLS degree with an archives concentration or a graduate degree in museum studies, fine arts, or public history.
  2. Three years’ professional experience in a cultural heritage setting.
  3. Experience in developing outreach programs for a variety of audiences.
  4. Experience in developing digital collections in a library/archives/museum environment.
  5. Demonstrated ability to work effectively and diplomatically with a diverse group of researchers, donors and staff.
  6. Excellent oral and written communication skills.

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Subject knowledge of children’s literature of the mid-late 20th century.
  2. Knowledge and experience in managing digital resources and digital repository applications.
  3. Experience working with a children’s literature collection in an academic setting.
  4. Knowledge of or experience in publishing, especially in children’s literature publishing.
  5. Active involvement in area at the regional or national level in the applicant’s area of specialization.

 

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full time, end-date position based in Storrs with an anticipated start date of July 20, 2018. The University offers a competitive salary, outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn and a highly desirable work environment. Salary is dependent upon education, qualifications, and experience. 

TO APPLY

Applications must be submitted online using UConn Jobs at http://www.jobs.uconn.edu, Staff Positions. (reference search #2018493) and include a cover letter, detailed resume, and contact information for three professional references.

 

Nominations and inquiries should be sent in confidence to [email protected]. To ensure full consideration, inquiries and applications should be submitted by May 20, 2018. Employment of the successful candidate will be contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check. (Search # 2018493)

 

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on May 20, 2018.

 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp .

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