University Archivist – Libraries (Hybrid Opportunity), UMass Amherst, (Amherst, MA)

Posted December 21, 2023

Job Summary

The University Archivist is part of the Special collections and University Archives (SCUA) and works closely with relevant library programs, faculty, students, and staff to implement a strategy for the University Archives. 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. 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.

Essential Functions

Serve as an advocate for the collection and use of the records of UMass Amherst. Develop 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.
Raise awareness of the importance of preserving University records among faculty, staff, departments, and associates of UMass Amherst. Advocate with faculty, student groups, 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.
Partner with 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. In accordance with SCUA departmental guidelines, implement collection policy for University records and advocate for records retention.
Collaborate with student groups to capture and activate their official and unofficial records of campus life and experience.
Provide reference service to users of the Robert S. Cox Special Collections and University Archives Research Center 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.
Classify, process, arrange, describe, digitize, and create metadata for finding aids and other discovery tools 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.
Make recommendations on departmental policies, procedures, and acquisitions and participate in departmental policy development and planning activities. Oversee the accurate and timely availability of documentation for all procedures and processes.
Assist in preparing exhibits of materials drawn from the University records for the Libraries or campus partner exhibit or event spaces as required. Lead special collecting projects relevant to University history as needed. Give public presentations on the history of UMass Amherst to alumni and other groups as required.
Maintain classification scheme and alphabetic list of University record groups and series at a level of accuracy suitable for digital access.
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.
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.
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.

How to Apply

For more information and to apply, please go to the following: https://careers.umass.edu/en-us/job/521730/university-archivist-libraries-hybrid-opportunity