Project Specialist for Rare Books, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
Posted April 11, 2023
Description
Stanford University Libraries seeks a Stanford Auxiliary Libraries (SAL) Project Archivist for Rare Books to support a priority project for the Department of Special Collections and University Archives to inventory, assess, and reorganize collection materials of enduring historic and research value stored at the Stanford Auxiliary Library (SAL2). This is a temporary 2-year position. The Libraries values are rooted in a commitment to mutual respect, the idea that every member of the staff has something to contribute, and that learning is constant. We seek a team member who is ready to share their skills and perspectives.
About Stanford Libraries:
Stanford Libraries is a network of over 15 libraries with over 400 employees. We are committed to fueling the teaching, learning and research across Stanford by acquiring, stewarding, and making available a robust collection, currently in excess of 12 million items. Everyone in the organization plays a vital role in fulfilling that objective. Our dedication to discoverability and information management also has us engaged in dynamic global partnerships. We are constantly building and strengthening our organization, and we recognize striving for excellence is a marathon and not a sprint. We are constantly trying to strike the right pace and admit there are times when we find ourselves at a fast jog. While we hope to always find candidates who fit within our organization, what we truly seek is someone who will add to our culture, our profession as well as the greater academic arena. We are invested in the success of our teams and the individuals who represent Stanford Libraries.
About the Department of Special Collections & University Archives:
The Department of Special Collections & University Archives acquires, arranges, describes, preserves, and makes available primary source materials to support the research needs of Stanford students, faculty, and administration, as well as the global community of scholars. The holdings of the Department comprise more than 260,000 rare, fine press, and artists’ books, and some 59 million pages of unpublished manuscripts and photographs. Collections include the papers of scientists, mathematicians, technologists, artists, writers, historians, and visionaries; medieval manuscripts; archival photographs; and records of corporations and non-profit organizations with a special interest on Silicon Valley, California, and Mexican American history.
About the Position:
Under the supervision of the Rare Books Curator, the SAL Project Specialist for Rare Books will assist with tasks related to the reorganization of collection materials of enduring historic and research value. These tasks will include generating an inventory of materials that require treatment or special housing; producing reports that will contribute to re-shelving and re-housing operations; inventory control; physical organization of materials; liaising with other units involved in the project; and other duties associated with the logistics of the project according to priorities set by the Rare Books Curator.
The SAL Project Specialist for Rare Books will participate in regular planning meetings within the division and department.
This position will be based at Stanford University’s main campus.
Core Duties
The SAL Project Specialist for Rare Books is responsible for a variety of logistical support tasks under the supervision of the Rare Books Curator:
Perform routine catalog maintenance, receiving, and/or copy cataloging.
Maintains and updates information for rare books materials throughout the project
Add copy cataloging records for previously uncataloged materials
Compile basic container lists or indexes of archival materials.
Compile and maintain lists of materials that require special housing
Compile and maintain lists of materials that require Conservation treatment
Compile and maintain information to support housing and reshelving activities
Collect and maintain library statistics; may produce reports for management.
Assist with physical organization of materials.
Liaise with other units involved with the project.
May be responsible for opening and closing activities.
Performs other duties as assigned.
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Requirements
Education & Experience:
Two-year college degree plus one or more years of experience in an academic library, or a combination of education and relevant experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Demonstrated interpersonal and organizational skills.
Ability to understand and communicate library policy.
Ability to apply judgment in choosing procedures and evaluating alternatives.
Ability to learn library operational skills.
Basic leadership skills.
Physical Requirements*
Constantly sit, perform desk-based computer tasks.
Frequently twist/bend/stoop/squat, grasp lightly/fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, sort/file paperwork or parts, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds.
Occasionally stand/walk, reach/work above shoulders, writing by hand.
Rarely use a telephone, kneel/crawl, climb (ladders, scaffolds, or other), operate hand controls.
Must be able to push and maneuver a fully-loaded cart weighing up to 650 pounds that requires an initial push force up to 70 pounds.
* – Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
Working Conditions
May work in confined spaces and at heights 4-10 feet; be exposed to dust and mold; work extended hours, evenings and weekends.
Work Standards
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University’s research, teaching and clinical missions. We believe Stanford’s future success will be shaped by the diverse perspectives, unique experiences, and inclusive culture of its community.
The expected pay range for this position is $63,000-68,000 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.
Why Stanford is for You:
Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:
- Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, and course auditing. Join a TedTalk, watch a film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
- A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
- A healthier you. Choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We provide excellent health care benefits.
- Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
- Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more.