Conservation Librarian, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Posted May 10, 2018
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Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Plan and perform simple to complex structural and aesthetic conservation treatment on a wide range of special collections library materials including books, manuscripts, art-on-paper, maps, ephemera, and parchments.
- Apply knowledge of conservation theory and preventive conservation techniques to safeguard the long-term care of Penn Libraries collection materials
- Implement and conduct treatment practices that are in keeping with the AIC Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
- Contribute to and conduct condition surveys and collection assessments.
- Analyze and examine collection materials to identify, describe, and document their material composition.
- Collaborate in exhibition and loan activities including review of facilities reports and environmental specifications; conducting exhibition reviews and on-site installation as needed.
- Develop and implement new documentation procedures and systems with the Head of Conservation.
- Participate in and create research, training, and educational outreach to a broad audience within the Penn Libraries and Penn academic community as well as partnering cultural institutions at the regional and national scale.
- Under direction of Head of Conservation and as required, develop curricula and lead audience-appropriate training and outreach for staff, students, faculty, and researchers.
- Contribute to departmental efforts to support Penn Libraries social media and communications campaigns.
- Collaborate with and direct the work of other lab staff, technicians, interns, and student workers.
- Facilitate general maintenance and organization of the conservation laboratory by contributing to safety procedures, maintaining inventories, and selecting materials and supplies.
- Be an active member of the conservation and cultural heritage community through active participation, publication, research, and professional service.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Required Expertise
- Master’s degree from an accredited graduate training program in conservation and 2 years of post-graduate, professional experience in conservation laboratory, preferably in a special collections or research library, or similar institution; or equivalent combination of education and experience, are required.
- Demonstrated experience treating a wide range of materials, including books, paper, and parchment, as demonstrated by a portfolio
- Demonstrated success with a wide range of conservation treatment procedures and a high degree of manual dexterity, analytic and observational skills, as demonstrated by a portfolio
- Demonstrated thorough working knowledge of conservation theory and practice, with satisfactory completion of courses in organic, paper, and conservation chemistry
- Well-developed communication and research skills
- Ability to work collegially across a large, complex, and dynamic organizational setting
- Ability to initiate and adapt to change
- Ability to analyze and solve problems
- Ability to work independently and with others
- Attention to detail and willingness to learn new techniques
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Adobe, and other project management software