Assistant Archivist/ Archivist (Archives Services)

National Library Board; Singapore; Hybrid; SGD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading library organization in Singapore is seeking an archival specialist. You will manage collection development, oversee digitization processes, and enhance community engagement. Ideal candidates have experience in archival work and strong communication skills, with the opportunity to make a significant community impact. This role requires innovative ideas and a collaborative spirit within a flexible work environment.

Benefits

Flexible work environment

Professional development opportunities

Supportive colleague environment

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of relevant experience in archival work preferred.
• Demonstrates adaptability and sound judgment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to collection management and development.
• Prepare and review inventory listings for digitization.
• Develop content for various platforms to enhance discoverability.

Skills

Archival work experience

Written and verbal communication

Problem-solving skills

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Job description

What the role is:

The National Library Board (NLB) nurtures Readers for Life, Learning Communities and a Knowledgeable Nation by promoting reading, learning and history through our network of 28 libraries across Singapore, the National Library and the National Archives of Singapore.

At NLB, you can look forward to a flexible, hybrid work environment with rewarding, impactful deliverables that improve the lives of the community. With caring colleagues, you will be in an ideal environment for professional development, innovation and impact.

We can offer you:
• A chance to Impact the Community, bridge gaps and empower everyone with the opportunity for learning and discovery.
• An opportunity to Innovate and Push Boundaries. We value ideas, curiosity and a passion for innovation to transform our libraries and archives.
• An organisation that Cares for your Growth and Wellbeing through investment in staff development and wellbeing in a supportive and collaborative environment.

You will be part of the team which is responsible for ensuring the acquisition, collection management, preservation and access to archival holdings under the Archives Services (AS) Department – contributing to NLB’s strategic thrust to achieve excellence in Singapore content and become a nation that knows our history.

Location: National Archives of Singapore, 1 Canning Rise, Singapore 179868
Division/Dept: National Archives / Archives Services

What you will be working on:

1.Collection management & development

• Contribute to collection management of archival holdings under the department - including accessioning; arrangement and description of records; and arrangement for conservation of archival holdings.

2. Digitisation & inventorisation

• Prepare, process and review inventory listings of acquired archival records for digitisation in compliance with established international archival standards and internal guidelines
• Oversee and plan the schedule for inventorisation of records; and ingest completed inventorised listings into the relevant databases
• Supervise the processing and uploading of digitised records for preservation and online accessibility.

3.Engagement & advocacy

• Develop content for the various NLB platforms to enhance discoverability and appreciation for our collections, including the curation of social media posts, write articles and give talks to create awareness of NAS’ collection.
• Increase discoverability and ease of search for our records through platforms such as crowdsourcing and AI.
• Assist to answer enquiries pertaining to the online finding aids of the Department
• Review information uploaded and changes made to the online finding aids for public access to ensure integrity of the databases
• Arrange for the conservation and housing of archival holdings transferred to the Department and contribute to their subsequent care, to ensure the long-term integrity of the holdings
• Work with other departments in conducting periodic stocktake and checks on the condition of the records
• Coordinate with other departments responsible for NAS repository management (i.e. records entering or leaving the repositories)
• Appraise newly available documents or offers of archival records; and acquire records of national and historical significance
• Advise government agencies on management and transfer of archival holdings, which includes reviewing and updating guidelines on managing public records to ensure records are well managed and safeguarded by government agencies
• Perform research and share expertise on NAS collections and archival practices to improve and promote the archival work
• Support NAS/NLB’s initiatives and any other duties as assigned
  

What we are looking for:

• 2- 5 years of relevant experience in archival work is preferred. Applicants with no experience may apply.
• Knowledge of photography techniques (e.g. understanding of what constitute to a well-composed photograph) will be an added advantage.
• Demonstrates adaptability and problem-solving skills while exercising sound judgement in complex situations.
• Strong project management capabilities and experience in leading cross-functional teams.
• Possesses excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in research and presentation.
• A collaborative team player who excels both independently and in team settings, with proven ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders through strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in documentation practices and ability to uphold standards of accountability, responsibility and integrity within the team

The successful candidate will be appointed on a 2-year contract at the first instance. We regret to inform you that only successful candidates will be contacted.

About National Library Board

To each reader, the library is a window to a vibrant imagination and exciting possibilities. For families, the library experience occupies a special in their hearts and of memories collected over generations. Libraries hold a special and familiar place in each of our hearts. NLB seeks to provide a trusted, accessible and globally-connected library and information service so as to promote a knowledgeable and engaged society.If you share our passion to create memorable library experiences for all our readers, we invite you to join the NLB family.