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Archivist, Ipswich Public Library, Ipswich, MA

Posted February 14, 2023

Job Summary

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. Implementation of programs, outreach and marketing related to Local History. Related work as required.

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.
  • Responsible for preservation-sensitive handling, storage, retrieval and usage of the Local History Collection per professional best practices and Library policy.
  • Directly responsible for inventory, cataloging and organizing 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 regarding procedures and access to the Local History
  • Archives and updates orientation packet and finding aids in Archives room as needed.
  • Assesses and makes recommendations for improvements to the Local History Archive with regard to equipment, shelving, HVAC updates, etc.
  • Plans and facilitates local history programs at the library 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.

Preparation, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Master’s degree in Library Science from an ALA accredited school with specific education and experience in preservation and archives management; or any equivalent combination of education and work experience related to local history and preservation.
  • Experience in writing grants and managing grant-funded projects, including budget management and reporting.
  • 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 priorities and work cooperatively; ability to interact effectively with other library staff, staff members of other town departments, local history stakeholders, state officials, 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.
  • Ability to use and apply word processing and spreadsheets.

Supervisory Responsibility

Trains and supervises volunteers as needed to assist with special projects related to the Local History Collections and local history programming.

Working Conditions

  • Position generally works in an office environment with moderate noise levels.
  • Frequent periods at computer or on telephone.
  • Some evening and weekend attendance required for meetings and programs.
  • Makes frequent contacts with other town departments, state and regional library agencies, professional organizations, civic groups, the Board of Library Trustees, salespeople, and the public; nature of contact requires the ability to influence actions and resolve problems.

To Apply

To view the full job description and apply, please visit: https://www.ipswichma.gov/Jobs.aspx?UniqueId=108&From=All&CommunityJobs=False&JobID=ArchivistLocal-History-Librarian-67

Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume as well as a Town of Ipswich application form (filled out either online or downloaded and completed by hand)

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