Science and Engineering Library Metadata Specialist – Librarian I, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA
Posted April 11, 2023
Description
About UMass Amherst
UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth’s flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region.
Job Summary
The Science and Engineering Library (SEL) Metadata Specialist catalogs physical library materials for the Science and Engineering Library and plans for available floor and shelf space and collection configuration options. Works collaboratively with other library units and departments to organize and describe resources in the library catalog and/or discovery system.
Essential Functions
- Catalogs physical library materials for the Science and Engineering Library. Catalog materials using current best practices, rules, and standards. Creates reports as necessary.
- Collaborates with Information Resources Management (IRM) staff to organize and describe resources in the library catalog and discovery environment. Supports SEL staff in use of catalog and discovery environment. Attends Metadata Unit meetings and IRM meetings as appropriate.
- Resolves complex cataloging problems as they arise, including retrospective conversion to machine-readable catalog records and correction of edition information and refers to Information Resources Management Staff as appropriate. Transfers and/or withdraws materials in accordance with established guidelines.
- Plans for available floor and shelf space and develop collection configuration options, in coordination with Head, Science and Engineering Library. Develops and executes plans for collections-related projects in collaboration with co-workers and other library staff, including shifting, weeding, pulling, and shelving space configuration. Trains and supervises students to assist with stacks work.
- Provides backup and cross-trains as needed with other unit staff. Collaborates and works in conjunction with other SEL staff to ensure coverage and the provision of services during branch hours of operations.
- Provides information service in an integrated public services environment as needed during assigned shift. Assists users in person, by phone, or by other communication methods in navigating and interpreting the Libraries’ website and online catalog. Interprets established library policies and procedures as required for the resolution of problems involving circulation services to users. Refers users to subject specialist librarians when their requests require reference and research-level expertise. Exercises independent judgment in handling questions directly or referring them to other branch or library personnel.
- Engages in the Libraries’ values and mission through recommending procedural and policy changes as appropriate.
- Stays current on information shared through various library communication channels, including but not limited to: Intranet (LibWire), LibForum listserv, departmental listserv and email from supervisors and colleagues. Contributes to unit, department, and library-wide information sharing as appropriate.
- Participates in the Libraries’ assessment program by collecting, maintaining, and recording usage statistics for monthly reports as needed
- Demonstrates, fosters and cultivates a positive, proactive internal and external customer service culture.
Other Functions
- Works collaboratively, effectively, and harmoniously to promote teamwork, diversity, equality, and inclusiveness within the Libraries and the campus.
- Attends professional development activities and training as assigned or required to meet departmental goals and objectives.
- Serves on internal and external committees as needed.
- Performs other related duties as assigned and in support of the mission and goals of the Libraries.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- One year experience working or interning in a library or a related field.
- Successful prior experience in a position requiring excellent interpersonal and customer service skills, including tactfulness, resilience, and the ability to overcome obstacles and provide creative solutions.
Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
- Proficiency with library systems and tools.
- Working experience with cataloging principles, rules, and standards, such as MARC, RDA, and other Library of Congress standards.
- Thorough knowledge of departmental rules, regulations, procedures and functions and ability to apply this knowledge to work problems.
Work Schedule
- Work a regular schedule of 7:30am – 3:30pm and may include some evening, weekend and holiday hours as assigned
Salary Information
Grade 16
To Apply
Special Instructions to Applicants
Along with the application, please submit a resume, cover letter, and contact information of three (3) professional references
UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, military status, or genetic information in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of the UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.