Cataloging & Metadata Technician

Millersville University; Millersville (Lancaster County); On-site; USD 44,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Health Coverage

Group Life Insurance

Retirement Plans

Tuition Waiver

Paid Time Off

Full Benefits Summary(PDF)

Job summary

Millersville University seeks a Cataloging & Metadata Technician to oversee the daily operations of the Cataloging unit. You will supervise student employees, manage copy cataloging, and collaborate on policies and procedures with librarians and staff.

The role includes creating Alma records, performing OCLC searches, and ensuring accurate subject headings and classification across formats. This permanent, full-time position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Four years of library-clerical work including two years of advanced library-clerical work comparable to the Library Assistant II, and graduation from high school OR two years of advanced library-clerical work, and an associate degree or equivalent training with major course work in library science. OR a bachelor's degree.
• Knowledge of library techniques, procedures and working tools used in cataloging and maintaining library materials.
• Two years previous cataloging experience.
• Skill in the application of techniques and procedures used in cataloging.
• Prior experience working with an integrated library system.
• Previous experience accessing and downloading records from OCLC.
• Evidence of ability to be self-directed and to prioritize work.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other library personnel and the public.
• Excellent oral, written, interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook.
• Commitment to inclusive practices and working with diverse student populations.
• Successful interview.
• Successful completion of three background checks.

Responsibilities

• Perform copy cataloging of library materials including books (physical and electronic), government documents, video materials, and electronic periodicals in the general, curriculum, government documents, juvenile, special, and reference collections.
• Review and revise descriptive cataloging (title, author, edition, publication information, collation, series and note fields) based on item in hand.
• Add local genre headings as appropriate.
• Assess content of resource and reviews subject headings to ensure that headings reflect topics covered.
• In consultation with the Cataloging Librarian, adds additional subject headings to enhance access to resource when necessary.
• Verify the assigned classification number against the Library of Congress catalog and the Alma shelflist for classification numbers assigned by organizations other than the Library of Congress.
• In consultation with the Cataloging Librarian, assign full Library of Congress classification numbers as needed.
• Create Alma holdings, item, and portfolio records.
• Search OCLC in batch mode and/or individually for bibliographic records matching newly acquired serials and for new resources being added to Archives and Special Collections.
• Export resulting records to Alma.
• Review and verify name, series and subject headings in bibliographic records which fail to validate through Alma's automated authority control procedures.
• Review or consult with liaison librarians about previous editions and copies for withdrawal from the collection as needed.
• Work with the Cataloging & Metadata librarian on database clean-up, authority control and other projects.
• In collaboration with the Cataloging & Metadata Librarian, the University Archivist and the Archives and Special Collections Technician, assist with cataloging of physical items for Archives and Special Collections.
• Work with the Cataloging Librarian on the withdrawal of library materials as needed.
• Document cataloging and classification decisions and participates in maintaining the unit procedures manual up-to-date.
• Keep abreast of changes to cataloging rules and policies through participation in appropriate listservs and review of updated OCLC and Library of Congress documentation.
• Attend workshops and conferences to maintain currency with developments in the cataloging field.
• Investigate, implement, and utilize software which aids in the work of the Cataloging Department (including OCLC Connexion, Classification Plus, and MarcEdit).
• Utilize Microsoft Office and vendor-supplied tools to generate lists and reports for the Cataloging unit.
• Participate in: the compilation of statistics for additions and withdrawals of materials in all collections and in all formats; the creation of student procedural manuals for the Cataloging unit; various library department committees including the Digital Assets Committee and Library Council; other campus or library consortia committees as assigned.
• Assist with opening and closing the library and supervising student employees on other library teams assigned.
• Review e‑mail and listserv messages.
• Responsible for all bindery operations using third party vendor for things like thesis, bound periodicals and select repairs.
• All other duties as assigned.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Associate degree or equivalent library science training

High school diploma

Tools

MS Office

OCLC

Alma ILS

Job description

Cataloging & Metadata Technician – Millersville University

Department: Library Services Staff

Nature of Position: Permanent, Full-time

Job Summary/Basic Function

About the position: The Cataloging and Metadata Technician oversees the daily operations of the Cataloging unit within the Library. The Technician reports to the Director of Library Operations and works in collaboration with the Director as well as the Cataloging and Metadata Librarian on cataloging policies, procedures, projects and problems. Prioritizes daily work for the unit and supervises the Cataloging student employees for cataloging tasks, workflow, and cataloging procedures. Oversees the day-to-day workflow of the copy and modified cataloging for all materials coming into the Cataloging unit and Archives & Special Collections. Performs all aspects essential to the cataloging of materials in all formats. This position plays a critical role in cataloging and maintaining the records for items in the library collection, including assistance with metadata for digital objects in the Millersville University Institutional Repository.

Join Our Team at Millersville University!

Annual Salary: $46,827

Plus a generous benefits package designed to support your well-being and future:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage - Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Group Life Insurance
• Retirement Plans - Choose from two excellent options
• Tuition Waiver - Invest in your education or your family's
• Paid Time Off - Vacation, sick leave, and holidays to recharge
• Full Benefits Summary(PDF)

Why Millersville?

Nestled in beautiful Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Millersville University is a proud member of Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education. We're known for:

• Strong student-faculty connections
• 70+ undergraduate and 24 graduate programs
• A stunning campus and vibrant community
• Outstanding job placement for graduates

With over 66,000 alumni across the globe, our impact is far-reaching-and growing.

Our Mission & Values:

At Millersville, we live by our EPPIIC values of Exploration, Public Mission, Professionalism, Inclusion, Integrity, and Compassion.

We are deeply committed to Inclusive Excellence - creating a welcoming, supportive environment where everyone can thrive. We believe diversity is a strength, and we actively seek individuals who bring unique perspectives and experiences to our community.

Equal Opportunity for All:

Millersville University is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination. Individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform copy cataloging of library materials including books (physical and electronic), government documents, video materials, and electronic periodicals in the general, curriculum, government documents, juvenile, special, and reference collections:
  • Review and revise descriptive cataloging (title, author, edition, publication information, collation, series and note fields) based on item in hand.
  • Add local genre headings as appropriate.
  • Assess content of resource and reviews subject headings to ensure that headings reflect topics covered. In consultation with the Cataloging Librarian, adds additional subject headings to enhance access to resource when necessary.
  • Verify the assigned classification number against the Library of Congress catalog and the Alma shelflist for classification numbers assigned by organizations other than the Library of Congress.
  • In consultation with the Cataloging Librarian, assign full Library of Congress classification numbers as needed.
  • Create Alma holdings, item, and portfolio records.
• Search OCLC in batch mode and/or individually for bibliographic records matching newly acquired serials and for new resources being added to Archives and Special Collections:
  • Export resulting records to Alma. Supports searching activities of other staff or students by providing guidance and direction in searching problem materials and those without Library of Congress cataloging copy.
• Review and verify name, series and subject headings in bibliographic records which fail to validate through Alma's automated authority control procedures.
• Review or consult with liaison librarians about previous editions and copies for withdrawal from the collection as needed.
• Work with the Cataloging & Metadata librarian on database clean-up, authority control and other projects.
• In collaboration with the Cataloging & Metadata Librarian, the University Archivist and the Archives and Special Collections Technician, assist with cataloging of physical items for Archives and Special Collections.
• Work with the Cataloging Librarian on the withdrawal of library materials as needed.
• Document cataloging and classification decisions and participates in maintaining the unit procedures manual up-to-date.
• Keep abreast of changes to cataloging rules and policies through participation in appropriate listservs and review of updated OCLC and Library of Congress documentation.
• Attend workshops and conferences to maintain currency with developments in the cataloging field.
• Investigate, implement, and utilize software which aids in the work of the Cataloging Department (including OCLC Connexion, Classification Plus, and MarcEdit).
• Utilize Microsoft Office and vendor-supplied tools to generate lists and reports for the Cataloging unit.
• Participate in:
  • the compilation of statistics for additions and withdrawals of materials in all collections and in all formats.
  • the creation of student procedural manuals for the Cataloging unit.
  • various library department committees including the Digital Assets Committee and Library Council.
  • other campus or library consortia committees as assigned.
• Assist with opening and closing the library and supervising student employees on other library teams assigned.
• Review e‑mail and listserv messages.
• Responsible for all bindery operations using third party vendor for things like thesis, bound periodicals and select repairs.
• All other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Four years of library‑clerical work including two years of advanced library‑clerical work comparable to the Library Assistant II, and graduation from high school OR Two years of advanced library‑clerical work, and an associate degree or equivalent training with major course work in library science. OR A bachelor's degree.
• Knowledge of library techniques, procedures and working tools used in cataloging and maintaining library materials.
• Two years previous cataloging experience.
• Skill in the application of techniques and procedures used in cataloging.
• Prior experience working with an integrated library system.
• Previous experience accessing and downloading records from OCLC.
• Evidence of ability to be self‑directed and to prioritize work.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other library personnel and the public.
• Excellent oral, written, interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook.
• Commitment to inclusive practices and working with diverse student populations.
• Successful interview.
• Successful completion of three background checks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree.
• Prior experience with non‑DLC cataloging and cataloging primary source materials.
• Demonstrated problem solving skills.
• Evidence of ability to train and supervise others.
• Excellent analytical, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Prior experience assigning metadata to digital objects and using digital asset management systems.
• Prior experience working with an institutional repository.
• Prior experience working with Alma ILS and/or TIND IR.
• Prior supervisory experience.

Job Description

Essential Functions

Please Note: These duties are to be performed with or without an accommodation. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

• Ability to work in person on campus in an office setting.
• No or very limited physical effort required.
• No or very limited exposure to physical risks.
• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
• Ability to sit for long periods of time.
• Must be able to lift/pull/push up to 10 pounds.
• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and mouse.