Archivist/Librarian, Dedham Historical Society & Museum, Dedham, MA
Posted October 13, 2021
Description:
Overview:
The Dedham Historical Society & Museum (DHSM) seeks a part-time Archivist/Librarian to
oversee, steward, and promote its important collections that reflect the history of one of the
oldest and most historic communities in the nation. The archives have been described
by professional consultants as being among the most significant in New
England. This position is part time. If you are interested in a full-time position please
do not apply.
Essential functions of the DHSM Archivist/Librarian:
Manage the archive and library, including preservation and care of the archival
collections and the reference library using current archival and records
management best practices; assess and improve organization of materials;
update and implement policies; and review library and archival materials
for possible accession or deaccession.
Provide reference and/or research services to historical and genealogical
researchers, in person or by phone, email, or mail.
Use Past Perfect database program to accession and catalog archival materials
and to prepare and connect the database for Past Perfect Online access.
Per the Strategic Plan, expand awareness/outreach and accessibility of the
DHSM archives, e.g.:
a) Collaborate with local organizations and schools for in-person programs.
b) Provide online resources and research to support educators.
c) Create finding aids and/or direct trained interns/volunteers to do so.
d) Post regularly to social media and contribute to the DHSM website and
bimonthly newsletter.
Oversee volunteers and interns conducting archives and research tasks.
Provide ideas and content for programs, and publications, and collaborate to
create in-person and online exhibits using materials from the archives.
Seek grant funding for archival projects and work with the Executive
Director on grant submissions.
Be a member of internal committees, including Collections, Strategic
Planning, and Programs.
Create archives and library monthly visitor reports for the Board.
Report to and under the direction of the Executive Director.
Qualifications
Graduate degree in relevant field and/or ALA-accredited degree (MLS/MLIS or
equivalent).
Working knowledge of historic collections and their care and handling.
Experience in aiding researchers and undertaking research to answer queries.
Strong organizational, research, and communications skills (writing/in-person) .
Familiarity with collections databases and digitizing collections.
Interest in outreach by engaging and expanding audiences and awareness.
Familiarity with social media; ability to write for online audience and post.
Knowledge of American history and interest in DEI.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
About the Archives and Library
The archives and library collect, preserve, and provide access to genealogical records and
materials related to the history of Dedham from the 1600s to the present. The library contains
more than 10,000 volumes including standard and rare genealogical and historical reference
materials. The archives include extensive primary documents relating to Dedham
families, businesses, and social organizations. The archives also house collections of
Dedham newspapers, maps, photographs, and church and civil records. The manuscript
collections span the town’s history from its incorporation in 1636 to the present, with
particular strengths in 18 th and 19 th century materials. For more information on the archives
and library, visit http://dedhamhistorical.org/research
About DHSM
The Dedham Historical Society & Museum was founded in 1859 for the purposes of collecting
and preserving material related to the history of Dedham, MA, from the 1600s to the present.
The DHSM works within the community and beyond to establish an appreciation for the town’s
history and place within the culture of the region, connecting the past to the present. The DHSM
holds an important collection of American fine and decorative arts relating to the town and
early Massachusetts history, and a library and archives housing rare materials ranging from
original documents from the town’s founding, industries, military, maps, church and civil
records, etc. Dedham is the seat of Norfolk County and home to many “firsts” in the nation. For
more information about DHSM, visit http://dedhamhistorical.org/about. The Dedham Historical
Society & Museum is a charitable, educational institution, organized under Chapter 501(c)(3) of
the Internal Revenue Code.
About Dedham
In September of 1635, the Massachusetts General Court issued orders for the establishment of
two inland towns, which could relieve the population pressures within the existing settlements
along the Bay. The first of these towns was Concord; the second was Dedham, settled
predominantly by yeomen and middle-class people from Suffolk, Norfolk, and Essex, England.
Incorporated in 1636, Dedham’s original land grant extended 200 miles to the border of what is
now Rhode Island, since sectioned into 16 towns. The original footprint of Dedham rested on
Massachusett and Wampanoag territory, where the Indigenous Peoples had lived for thousands
of years. Dedham is the seat of Norfolk County and home to many “firsts” in the nation. For
more information about Dedham, visit http://dedhamhistorical.org/history