Cataloging Assistant

City of Arlington; United States; On-site; USD 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Arlington Libraries is seeking a skilled cataloger to create, edit, and maintain bibliographic records within the Library’s electronic database. You will ensure accurate indexing and access by applying cataloging standards, MARC formats, and authority control across multilingual materials.

The position requires an Associate degree in Liberal Arts, Computer Science, Library Science, or a related field and one year of related experience.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of library cataloging principles and bibliographic records.
• Knowledge of MARC formats and bibliographic description standards.
• Experience with WorldCat and BookWhere databases.
• Proficiency in Boolean logic and advanced search techniques.
• Ability to enter, edit, and organize data accurately.
• Ability to work with non-English bibliographic formats.

Responsibilities

• Create, edit, and maintain bibliographic records from initial ordering to catalog.
• Maintain the integrated library database, including authority records.
• Conduct advanced searches to identify and import records.
• Apply cataloging standards and indexing practices to organize materials.
• Review bibliographic information for accuracy, including foreign-language items.
• Participate in special projects to improve cataloging processes.

Skills

Cataloging principles

MARC formats

Search techniques (Boolean)

Non-English materials handling

Data entry & proofreading

Bibliographic records management

Education

Associate degree in Liberal Arts, Computer Science, Library Science, or related field

Job description

DEPARTMENT Libraries

SALARY $20.46 - $25.57

JOB SUMMARY

Under general supervision, performs specialized cataloging and classification of library materials by creating, editing, and maintaining bibliographic records within the Library’s electronic database. Ensures accurate organization, classification, and accessibility of library resources through the use of established cataloging standards, database systems, and research tools.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Creates, edits, and maintains bibliographic records for new library materials, from initial ordering through addition to the Library’s collection, ensuring accurate indexing and classification within the electronic database. Performs ongoing maintenance of the Library’s integrated database, including bibliographic and authority records, to ensure accuracy, consistency, and effective access to collection materials. Conducts advanced searches across multiple online databases and cataloging utilities to identify, retrieve, and import appropriate bibliographic records into the Library’s database. Applies established cataloging standards, classification systems, and subject indexing practices to organize library materials and support user access. Reviews and verifies bibliographic information for accuracy, completeness, and consistency, including materials containing foreign-language text, special characters, and varying publication formats. Participates in special projects and database enhancements designed to improve cataloging processes, collection organization, and access to library resources.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

On a nontypical basis, may perform other additional duties not listed in this description that are in alignment with the scope of essential job functions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of library cataloging principles, bibliographic records, classification systems, and database management practices.
• Knowledge of MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) formats and established bibliographic description standards.
• Knowledge of library cataloging utilities and databases, such as WorldCat and BookWhere.
• Knowledge of relational database concepts, including bibliographic, authority, and patron records.
• Knowledge of database search techniques, including Boolean logic, keyword searching, wildcarding, and search limitations.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, database programs, internet browsers, and common computer applications.
• Knowledge of foreign-language bibliographic formats, diacritical marks, and character sets used in non-English materials.
• General knowledge of the liberal arts and sciences.
• Skill in researching, interpreting, and verifying bibliographic information across multiple sources.
• Skill in accurately and efficiently entering, editing, proofreading, and organizing data.
• Skill in identifying and interpreting bibliographic information in languages other than English.
• Skill in applying cataloging rules, classification standards, and established procedures to specific materials and situations.
• Skill in organizing and prioritizing multiple assignments while maintaining accuracy and productivity.
• Ability to adapt to changing technology, database systems, and software upgrades.
• Ability to assess the physical condition of library materials and determine appropriate handling, repair, or retention recommendations.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment and library-related computer systems.
• Ability to communicate effectively and follow detailed oral and written instructions.
• Ability to perform physical activities associated with handling, sorting, transporting, and shelving library materials.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, move items weighing up to 75 pounds, and push or pull a loaded book cart weighing up to 300 pounds.

QUALIFYING EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Associate degree in Liberal Arts, Computer Science, Library Science, or a related field. One (1) year of related experience in library cataloging, database management, records management, or a related area.

EMPLOYMENT SCREENINGS REQUIRED

Criminal Background Check Health Performance Evaluation (HPE)/Physical Examination

EMPLOYMENT EEO STATEMENTS

City of Arlington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The people that work for the City of Arlington directly impact our community, citizens, visitors and businesses.

Become a leader in your chosen profession by joining the City’s dynamic workforce and make a positive contribution to the American Dream City!

City of Arlington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requests for reasonable accommodations should be sent to [e-mail].

If you do not find a job that suits your experience, we welcome you to introduce yourself so Human Resources may be able to guide you to other opportunities.