Archivist, Boston Latin School, (Boston, MA)

Posted March 20, 2026

Description

Boston Latin School (BLS), the oldest public school in the country, seeks a professional part-time archivist to steward its archival collection. The school offers students in Grades 7-12 a contemporary classical education as preparation for successful college studies, responsible & engaged citizenship, and a rewarding life. The Archivist plays an important role in collecting, preserving, and making available records that document the long and rich history of the school.

Reporting to the Head of School and in collaboration with the Head Librarian, the School Archivist will manage and maintain Boston Latin School’s archival collection. This role involves collecting new material, accepting and processing donations, maintaining archival records, expanding the BLS Digital Archive program, responding to research requests from the school community, alumni association, and outside researchers, and other associated duties. The archivist will also assist with special projects and contribute to publications and events that celebrate Boston Latin School’s history, including the school’s 400th anniversary celebration in 2035.

Successful candidates will be detail-oriented, curious, and creative problem-solvers. This position requires strong organizational, communication, time-management, and accurate record-keeping skills. Individuals should also have an interest in working with and supervising student workers. Candidates must be comfortable working in an active, dynamic school environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Respond to information and research requests from faculty, students, alumni, authors and others
Collect school publications, programs, and other memorabilia for addition to the Archives
Assess, accept, and process external donations, in accordance with Archive Collection Policy
Support Alumni Assoc (BLSA) projects: oral history videos, alumni publications, Alumni Day displays, 400th anniversary celebration
Oversee BLS Digital Archives program both within BLS and in partnership with Boston Public Library Digitization team
Collaborate with BLS Librarians on priorities for the Archives
Train & supervise student Archive volunteers
Plan & conduct annual Archives Advisory Committee (AAC) meetings, together with Head Librarian
Analyze, assess, and archive donations awaiting processing
Assess current collection for items to be weeded and/or deaccessioned
Maintain and update BLS Authors book collection
Update Archives webpage as needed
Provide updates on Archival projects for school publications
Maintain the current desktop database (MS Access) and Excel-based inventories

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Archives Management, History or related field; Master’s degree preferred
Minimum of two years’ experience working with archival materials, knowledge of principles, practices and standards, and preservation and conservation issues for a variety of materials, including paper, photographs and textiles
Strong organizational, research and project management skills, including attention to detail and deadlines
Excellent communication skills and an ability to prioritize demands
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment
Highly proficient in Google Suite and Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to lift and carry heavy boxes and other materials
Familiarity with or willingness to learn about the history of Boston Latin School

Hours and Compensation

Part-time, permanent, 15 hours/week during the academic year with occasional remote work over the summer months.
While this position is based in a Boston Public School, it is funded by the Boston Latin School Association (BLSA).
Benefits – No
Hourly wage range Commensurate with experience
Start Date: Mutually agreed upon

How to Apply

Send cover letter and resume to Deeth Ellis, Head Librarian, Keefe Library, Boston Latin School. [email protected].