Bookbinding Lab Assistant — Data, Imaging & Conservation

The University of Kansas; Lawrence (KS); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Kansas Libraries is seeking a student assistant for Conservation Services to support a project identifying heavy metals in 19th-century bookbindings using XRF and colorimetry. Ideal for an advanced undergraduate or graduate student in heritage conservation, libraries, or chemistry.

The position involves recording data, measuring books, shelving, digital imaging, and outreach through blog posts and events.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication abilities evidenced by application materials.
• Experience with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Availability to work 12–15 hours per week in a 9:00 AM–4:30 PM window in at least 2-hour shifts.

Responsibilities

• Record bookbinding attributes, scientific data, and colorimetry readings; prepare reports.
• Measure books for boxes and create custom housings.
• Manage shelving and workflows.
• Digital imaging of bookbindings.
• Complete other duties, including blog posts and public-facing events.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

Time management

Education

Enrolled as undergraduate or graduate student

Job description

The University of Kansas Libraries is seeking a student assistant for Conservation Services to support a project identifying heavy metals in 19th-century bookbindings using XRF and colorimetry. Ideal for an advanced undergraduate or graduate student in heritage conservation, libraries, or chemistry.

The position involves recording data, measuring books, shelving, digital imaging, and outreach through blog posts and events.