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Archivist/Local History Librarian, Ipswich Public Library, Ipswich, MA

Posted August 23, 2018

Archivist/Local History Librarian, Ipswich Public Library

The Town of Ipswich seeks qualified candidates for part-time (19 hours per week) non-benefited position of Archivist/Local History Librarian.

OVERVIEW: Under general direction of the Director of Library Services, manages the operation and administration of the Local History Collections in all formats. Oversees specialized Selection, Acquisitions, Material Classification and Cataloging, Inter-Library Loan Transactions and Correspondence, Grants and Preservation/Conservation related to these Collections. Coordinates Local History with other library services. Answers in-depth reference and research questions accurately and efficiently based upon a professional knowledge of information sources, reference procedures, in-depth knowledge of the Ipswich Public Library Historical Collections. Responsibility for the implementation of programs, outreach and marketing related to Local History. Related work as required.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Directly responsible for the Local History/Genealogy Collection  in all its formats: photographs; manuscripts; periodicals; newspapers; microfilms; Maps; Vertical Files; historic volumes and Local History/Genealogy resources. Performs a variety of duties in the direct delivery of professional departmental service to the public, including Reference, Reader’s Advisory, Referral and program and publicity assistance but displays sound knowledge of entire Library’s reference resources.
  • At the direction of the Director of Library Services, is responsible for the selection, assessment, weeding, inventory control, storage and retrieval, preservation and budget preparation for resources relating to the Local History Collection in all its formats: photographs; manuscripts; periodicals; newspapers; microfilms; Maps; Vertical Files; historic volumes and Local History/Genealogy resources.   
  • Is directly responsible for inventory, cataloging and organizing of Local History/Genealogy resources.
  • Responsible for preservation-sensitive handling, storage, retrieval and usage of the Local History Collection per professional best practices and Library policy.
  • Directly responsible for cataloging of Local History/Genealogy Collection in appropriate format for searching and retrieval by library staff and patrons.
  • Researches, identifies and acknowledges gifts and additions to the Local History Collection.
  • Collaborates with Ipswich educators, historians and local history stakeholders on educational programs, displays and events.
  • Responsible for all inquiries and correspondence relating to local history or genealogical searches. Maintains a cross-reference of inquiries and family ancestries. Maintains an active correspondence relating to searches; refers patrons to appropriate genealogical sources, collections and agencies.
  • Prepares grants and recommends materials for on-going historical conservation effort and digitization of resources.  Coordinates with professional conservationists in the protection and preservation of materials. Collaborates with Director in producing a list of “must-saves” identified in the Disaster Plan.
  • Assists the Director in the creation and development of the long-range Preservation Plan and in policy and procedures to support the local history collection.
  • Oversees yearly order of archival, preservation and storage supply materials related to the collection.
  • Makes policy recommendations to the Director and Library Trustees regarding procedures and access to the Local History Archives and updates orientation packet and finding aids in Archives room as needed.
  • Assesses and make recommendations for improvements to the Local History Archive with regard to equipment, shelving, HVAC updates, etc.
  • Plan and facilitate local history programs at the library, including both topics programs about Ipswich History and instructional courses related to research methods
  • Performs community outreach related to cultural heritage and history of Ipswich
  • Envisions the future cultural landscape of Ipswich and fosters that vision by cultivating relationships with other local history stakeholders in the community with shared goals

 

Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited school; seven years of experience in library administration with specific education and experience in preservation and archives management; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Must be certified by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
  • Previous experience in writing grants and managing grant-funded projects, including budget management and reporting.
  • Previous experience in all aspects of public library programs, including planning, budgeting, and marketing and publicity.
  • Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of professional library work and of the organization and management of library operations including planning, budgeting, cataloging systems, automation and electronic data retrieval.
  • Excellent planning and organizational skills. Ability to recognize and accomplish library priorities and work cooperatively to support their accomplishment; ability to interact effectively with other town department managers, local history stakeholders, state officials and citizen boards and committees and volunteers.
  • Ability to establish local history goals and objectives for the library; to manage multiple project assignments under occasional time constraints; to analyze complex issues and to develop relevant and realistic plans, programs and recommendations.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; to establish positive public relations for the library’s local history collections, and to interact effectively with a wide variety of  individuals and officials.
  • Ability to apply principles and practices of short and long term planning, staffing, directing, coordinating, delegating, reporting, and budgeting in the operation of a municipal department.
  • Ability to use and apply word processing and spreadsheets.

 

Full/Part Time

Part Time

 

Education

MLS

 

Salary

$30 hourly, 19 hours per week

 

How to Apply

For full position description and application instructions, please visit https://www.ipswichma.gov/Jobs.aspx.

Do not inquire with library.

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