Library and Archives Assistant, Whitney Museum of American Art (New York, NY)
Posted July 29, 2026
Description
The Library and Archives Assistant will support the Library and Archives team in all aspects of collections development, cataloging, processing, circulation, reference, access, organization, and storage. This is a part-time role, 28 hours weekly.
Responsibilities
- Assist staff with library and archives collection development.
- Create original and copy cataloging in MARC for library materials, with particular attention to our ongoing work in reparative and equitable metadata.
- Assist with onsite and remote reference and circulation requests from staff and external researchers, including paging and shelving.
- Process library and archives materials for secure storge, including items requiring custom preservation housings and encapsulations.
- Survey, arrange, and describe Whitney archival collections according to best practices.
- Prepare DACS records for export to the archives’ online public access portal, ArchivesSpace.
- Prepare select materials for our digital preservation pipeline via ArchiveSpace, Archivematica, and ResourceSpace.
Education Background/Degree requirements
- MLIS or related degree, with experience in art sources and services
Specific knowledge, abilities and/or skills
- Experience with library cataloging (MARC, RDA, LCSH, LC classification).
- Ability to work independently with attention to detail.
- Experience with an ILS.
- Proficiency in ArchivesSpace, or similar collection management systems.
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365, including Microsoft Excel.
- Strong working knowledge of DACS and EAD.
- Demonstrated familiarity with archival theory and practice, including applying processing strategies and records retention policies.
- Ability to lift cartons up to 30lbs is helpful.
Compensation & Benefits
- Hourly rate of $32.00
- Medical, Dental, Vision, 403(B) elections
- Generous PTO benefits
- Commuter benefits – parking and mass transit
- Admission to world-renowned museums across the city and nationally
- Pet insurance and discounted membership for Citibike
- This position may be covered by UAW Local 2110
How to Apply
To apply: https://jobs.whitney.org/apply/1yKvdOKjH7/Research-Resources-Library-And-Archives-Assistant