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Library and Archives Conservator, Indiana University Libraries, (Bloomington, IN)

Posted September 30, 2024

Join our dynamic team at Indiana University Libraries as we seek a talented and collaborative Library and Archives Conservator to play a key role in our preservation program. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the vital role of conservation in an academic research library and be adept at balancing treatment, project management, and preventive preservation responsibilities while working with archival, special, and circulating collections. If you are passionate about preservation and conservation and have the necessary expertise, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to contribute to our institution’s mission.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs conservation treatment on library and archival materials with the primary focus on paper-based materials in archival and special collections, including printed and manuscript documents, prints, maps, works of art, and bound materials, and provides written and photographic documentation of special collections treatments in accordance with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Works with curators, collection managers, conservators, and other library staff to plan for the care of the collections and select materials for conservation treatment. Surveys the condition of collections and advises library staff on treatment, storage, handling, collection moves, exhibition, and digitization; performs on-site assessments, recommends appropriate action, and assists with implementation.
  • Trains and supervises full- and part-time staff performing conservation treatment of circulating and special collections. Sets priorities, treatment methods, and procedures and manages workflows for conservation treatment.
  • Plans and carries out collection-level conservation and housing projects. Participates in disaster preparedness and response, environmental monitoring, and outreach and education activities.
  • Maintains lab records, including statistics, treatment documentation, and procedures. Evaluates and recommends supplies, equipment, and tools.
  • Stays current with developments in library conservation; engages in appropriate professional development, continuing education, professional service, and research activities.
  • Promotes the IU Libraries culture of diversity and inclusion and supports the values outlined in the IU Libraries Diversity Strategic Plan (https://libraries.indiana.edu/diversity-strategic-plan-0)

QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants are encouraged to think broadly and communicate how their skills and experiences transfer to the qualifications in ways that may not be obvious. 

Required:

  • Master’s degree in conservation focusing on books and paper or an equivalent combination of advanced degree and relevant experience. Equivalent relevant experience must include education in materials science, art history and/or material culture, and conservation treatment skills acquired under a conservator’s supervision.
  • One year of post-graduate-level work in a library, archive, museum, non-profit conservation center, or private conservation practice.
  • Extensive knowledge of conservation principles and practices for book and paper collections.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform high-quality conservation treatments on general and special collections materials.
  • Demonstrated understanding of the chemical and physical properties of materials held in library and archival collections and the materials involved in their preservation. Demonstrated knowledge of chemical safety and guidelines. Experience in analytical methods used in book and paper conservation.
  • Supervisory experience.
    Ability to work independently and in a group as part of a diverse team.
  • Potential to contribute to the profession through service, teaching, research, and/or publishing.
  • Demonstrated organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, both oral and written. 
  • Computer skills: electronic communications, word processing, spreadsheets, database management, and photographic image processing.
  • Demonstrated commitment to fostering an environment supportive of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Applicants invited for an interview will be asked to present a portfolio of recent conservation treatments.
  • Ability to understand and enhance a culture of diversity and inclusion and support the values outlined in the IU Libraries Diversity Strategic Plan (https://libraries.indiana.edu/file/diversity-strategic-plan-20162017pdf)
  • Ability to meet the requirements of a tenure/tenure-track position at the IU Libraries (https://libraries.indiana.edu/promotion-tenure)

Preferred:

Candidates do not need to meet all preferred qualifications to be considered for this position. 

  • Master of Library Science degree
  • Experience working in an academic library
  • Experience with the conservation of still photographs
  • Knowledge of preservation practices for audio-visual materials

SALARY AND BENEFITS

The salary range is $62,000 – $72,000 per year; benefits include a university healthcare plan, a university-funded base retirement plan, a 100% university-paid group life insurance plan, and a generous paid time off plan. This tenure/tenure-track academic appointment includes eligibility for sabbatical leaves. For a complete list of benefit programs, please refer to the following resources:

How to Apply:

Review of applications will begin immediately. Applications received by November 8, 2024, will receive full consideration, but the search will remain open until filled. Interested candidates should review the application requirements and submit their application at https://indiana.peopleadmin.com. Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to: Jennifer Chaffin, Director of Human Resources, Libraries Human Resources, Herman B Wells Library 205, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405 – Phone: 812-855-8196 – Fax: 812-855-2576 – Email: [email protected].  Expected start date: January 2, 2025. Please note that this date is flexible.

For more information about Indiana University Bloomington, go to https://www.indiana.edu/. For information about working and living in Bloomington, Indiana: https://vpfaa.indiana.edu/work-life/index.html 

Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual qualifications. Indiana University prohibits discrimination based on age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, disability status, or protected veteran status.

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