Special Collections Local History Librarian, Newburgh Free Library, (Newburgh, NY)

Posted December 18, 2024

Job Description:
The Newburgh Free Library seeks an exceptionally well organized and experienced full time Librarian to lead our Local History Department. The ideal candidate will possess a strong knowledge of archival practices, familiarity with the Newburgh community, an interest in learning about the history of Newburgh, the ability to work carefully and methodically with special collections, and to direct and supervise the work of other department staff. The candidate will also be responsible for the daily maintenance of the Library’s Federal and NYS government documents collections, both tangible and online. The ideal candidate will also oversee the processing, deaccessioning and recordkeeping of the document collections.
The Newburgh Free Library is a mid-sized urban library serving the people of the City of Newburgh, the Town of Newburgh, and the Town of New Windsor. The Main Library in the City of Newburgh has beautiful views, sitting atop a hill overlooking the Hudson River. With over 60 staff members, 2 locations, and a service area of approximately 60,000 people, the Newburgh Free Library is a bustling place. This Librarian II position is a union title, 35 hours a week, requiring one night a week and one Saturday a month. The Local History Librarian reports directly to the Head of Adult Services.

Essential Functions:

• Work with Library Administration to develop policies and procedures specific to the Local History and Government Document Collections
• Work to accession all archival collections and ensure that there is clear documentation for each
  collection
• Process collections and write DACS compliant finding aids for all collections
• Work with Marketing and Communication staff to update the Local History and Documents on the Library website, and curate local history and documents related content for social mediaSurvey the collections and make recommendations for storage and housing decisions
  ● Supervise Local History and Government Documents staff and make recommendations for training
  opportunities and conduct regular evaluations
• ● Have a working knowledge of the Federal Superintendent of Documents communications and
  directives so the candidate can prepare reports as required by the Federal Depository Library Program
  (FDLP) and the NYS Depository Programs.
  ● Provide research assistance for FDLP and NYS Depository items.
  ● Identify and apply for grant opportunities that will assist the work of the Local History department
  ● Work with Adult Services staff to develop and promote Local History programs
  ● Collaborate and forge relationships with local historical societies and community based organizations
  to promote library programs and services and present on history related topics
  ● Active participation in local history organizations meetings and committees
  ● Provide reference services to patrons, both at the Local History Desk and at other Library service points
  ● Provide in-depth research and reference services for Local History and Government Documents
  research requests
  ● Prepare exhibits and displays, both physical and online for the collections
  ● Offer inclusive local history programs and tours and participate in community outreach opportunities,
  present on local history topics
  ● Strong technical skills, including familiarity with relevant software for cataloging, digitization, and
  database management
  ● Knowledge of digital preservation practices and tools for creating and maintaining digital collections
  ● Other duties as assigned
  KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
  ● Possession of NYS Public Librarian’s Professional certificate.
  ● Masters Degree in Librarianship from an ALA accredited library school.
  ● Experience working in a special collections
  ● Familiarity with archival best practices
  ● Ability to work with diverse service population, staff, community members, and organizations
  ● Excellent time management and organizational skills
  ● Ability to communicate clearly and effectively
  SALARY AND BENEFITS
  Salary range: $60,735 – $84,843 depending on experience. Health insurance, vision, dental, and participation in
  the New York State Retirement System. Employees receive generous vacation, sick leave, and flex days.
  TO APPLY
  External applicants must respond via the OLAS Web Site (www.olasjobs.org) on or before January 8th, 2025.
  Internal applicants must submit a current resume and letter of interest to: Office of Human Resources, 124
  Grand St. Newburgh, NY 12550 or FAX to 563-3468