Cataloguing Assistant (Temporary), Congressional Library and Archives, (Boston, MA)

Posted October 16, 2025

Job Description

Under the direction of the Librarian, the Cataloguing Assistant is responsible for making accessible the recently acquired Francis Bremer collection of nearly 300 modern books on early modern American and English history. The successful applicant will use copy cataloguing according to professional and local standards to find and import catalog records, make local changes, and create a call number according to the CLA’s homegrown classification system. The Cataloguing Assistant will also incorporate the catalogued books into the library stacks and promote their work through outreach efforts. The Cataloguing Assistant will receive training in the CLA’s cataloguing workflows, using OCLC WorldShare Record Manager, creating and editing bibliographic records in the CLA’s ILS (Softlink Liberty), and devising call numbers. This is a temporary, part-time position for 110 hours. 

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Copy Cataloguing
  • RDA cataloguing in MARC following local practices 
  • Create unique call numbers using CLA’s homegrown classification system 
• Reshelving 
• Project Outreach 

Qualifications

Education & Experience 

• MLIS or comparable library experience.
  • Cataloguing course or training preferred. 
• Copy cataloguing experience (approximately 2 months to 2 years) preferred. 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities 

• Background knowledge of library theory, concepts, and methods, including cataloging content standards and formats such as MARC, RDA, and LCSH. 
• Professional curiosity about American, Congregational, Reformation history and other topics related to the collection.  
• High level of attention to detail. 
• Ability to work independently. 
• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats. 
• High level of proficiency with computers and desktop applications, including Microsoft Office suite (especially Word and Excel). 
• Familiarity with proper handling of historical materials preferred. 
• Experience with working with an ILS preferred.
• Familiarity with cataloging web applications such as OCLC WorldShare Record Manager and RDAToolkit preferred. 

Working Conditions

• Work must be completed on-site, in person.  
• Work requires frequent exposure to dust. 
• Some ascending and descending of stairs. 
• Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 50 pounds, potentially up or down stairs, and some standing or walking. 
• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment. Must be able to work in an office setting where the temperature is set to a constant 68⁰F. 

Compensation:

The compensation is $23-25/hr. This position provides no other benefits.  

How to Apply:

Please send a résumé, cover letter, and two references to Meaghan Wright at [email protected]. Any questions can be directed to the same address.