University Archivist, University of Massachusetts – Amherst, Amherst, MA

Posted February 13, 2023

Job Summary

The University Archivist is part of the special collections and university archives (SCUA) and works closely with relevant library programs, faculty, and staff to implement a strategy for the University Archives. The University Archivist will lead services that ensure the acquisition, curation, preservation, access to and promotion of physical and born-digital assets that are under the University Archives stewardship, including collections of memorabilia and realia. The University Archivist will be responsible for overseeing the development, processing, care, and public access of the official and unofficial records of UMass Amherst, as well as the personal and professional papers of its faculty, staff, students, and alumni. The archivist will serve as an advocate for the collection and use of the records of UMass Amherst. This position is responsible for developing strong relationships across the university community in order to advise on retention and preservation of records and ensure the regular transfer and long-term preservation of both physical and born-digital materials to record the diverse perspectives and experiences of UMass Amherst campus life.

Essential Functions

Classify, process, arrange, describe, and prepare finding aids for permanent university records and other selected collections according to archival theory and practice, to assist users in finding required materials. Conduct research necessary to prepare descriptions and finding aids.
Develop and maintain classification scheme and alphabetic list of university record groups and series at a level of accuracy suitable for digital access.
Provide reference service to users of the University Archives collections as required, handling questions directly or referring them as appropriate. Search university departmental databases, websites, resources, and other finding aids and collections to find answers to questions posed by all correspondents, whether virtual or in-person.
In accordance with SCUA departmental guidelines, implement collection policy for university records and advocate for records retention. Serve as liaison to university departments in order to facilitate records transfers; survey and appraise university records not yet in the Archives; and oversee orderly transfer of records. Train university office personnel regarding scheduling, disposition, and transfers of office records. Maintain records of transfers and of contents and locations of transfers housed off-site.
Monitor and maintain departmental environmental systems for preservation purposes. Maintain supplies and analyze equipment needs, making recommendations to the Associate Dean. Participate in planning for appropriate usage of available floor and shelf space.
Make recommendations on departmental policies, procedures, and acquisitions and participate in departmental planning activities. Oversee the accurate and timely availability of documentation for all procedures and processes.
Maintain security of materials. Ensure that unauthorized personnel do not enter the stack area. Supervise physical use of materials to ensure they are not mutilated or stolen.
Give public presentations on the history of UMass Amherst to alumni and other groups as required. Raise awareness of importance of preserving University records among faculty, staff, departments, and associates of UMass Amherst. Advocate with faculty and other interested parties for use of University Records collections in classes, lectures, and in other venues. Describe university records operation and collections for staff, users, and the public as required. Assist in preparing exhibits of materials drawn from the university records for the Libraries or campus partner exhibit or event spaces as required.
Participate in collecting, maintaining, and analyzing collection usage statistics for monthly reports as needed. Ensure transparency in sharing collection assessment activities to support data-driven decisions.
Maintain an active professional presence through publication, presentations at professional meetings, and committee service for professional organizations.
Supervise student workers who assist with University Archives.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree in library science from a program accredited by the American Library Association, or its appropriate equivalent in librarianship from another country.
Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with materials in an archives or records management setting.
Demonstrated knowledge of archival appraisal, arrangement, and description, and experience applying archival principles and standards in a digital environment.
Experience building relationships with internal and external partners with a strong commitment to public service and proven ability to work effectively with a diverse population of faculty, staff, student, and community members.
Knowledge of the strategies used in archives to conduct outreach to faculty, campus units, and student groups.
Awareness of technologies, best practices, standards, ethics, and trends in archives and records management in physical and digital environments.
Ability to manage time effectively, set performance goals, and work both independently and collaboratively in a flexible, energized, and supportive environment that celebrates a growth mindset.
Evidence of excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to communicate clearly in presentations.
Knowledge of DACS and other relevant metadata standards.’

Preferred Qualifications

Working knowledge of cataloging/metadata tools and systems for creating, editing, harvesting, and transforming metadata.
Grant writing experience.
Knowledge of digital and emerging technologies

Work Schedule

The regular working schedule for this position is Monday – Friday, day hours.
The incumbent of the position is expected to work on a flexible schedule, which includes some evening, weekend, and holiday hours.

To Apply

To view the full job description and apply, please visit: https://careers.umass.edu/en-us/job/517803/university-archivist-libraries

Along with the application, please submit a resume, cover letter and contact information of three (3) professional references. The search will remain open until filled.