Islamic Languages Project Cataloger

State; Medford (MA); Hybrid; USD 93,677,000 - 107,453,000; Full time

Job summary

Tufts University's Tisch Library in Medford seeks an Islamic Languages Project Cataloger to catalog a new donation of Arabic and related Islamic-language materials, ensuring discovery through the library catalog and discovery systems.

The role performs original and complex copy cataloging in OCLC and Alma, conducts authority work, and collaborates with Metadata Services staff, subject librarians, and collection specialists to establish priorities, workflows, and timely project delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and at least two years of cataloging experience.
• Reading knowledge of Arabic and ability to catalog materials in Arabic script.
• Knowledge of MARC 21, RDA, Library of Congress classification, and Library of Congress Subject Headings.
• Experience using OCLC and integrated library systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Cataloging a newly acquired donation of Arabic and other Islamic-language materials.
• Creating original and complex copy cataloging records in OCLC and Alma.
• Conducting authority work and quality control to improve discovery and access.
• Identifying rare, unique, or special collections materials suitable for digitization.
• Tracking project progress and contributing to project documentation.
• Collaborating with library staff to ensure timely availability of materials for research and instruction.

Skills

Arabic language

Library cataloging

Copy cataloging

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree

MLIS degree

Tools

OCLC

Alma

MARC 21

RDA

Library of Congress classification

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Job description

Islamic Languages Project Cataloger, Tisch Library, Tufts University (Medford)

Tisch Library seeks an Islamic Languages Project Cataloger to catalog and provide access to a new donation of materials supporting research and teaching in Islamic Studies and related fields. Working as part of the Metadata Services team, the Project Cataloger will perform original and complex copy cataloging for materials in Arabic and other Islamic languages and will contribute to the timely processing and discovery of the collection.

The position will focus on describing, organizing, and cataloging monographs, manuscripts, and other formats received through a recent donation. The cataloger will assess existing metadata, create and enhance bibliographic and authority records, and ensure that materials are discoverable through the library catalog and other discovery systems. The successful candidate will work closely with Metadata Services staff, subject librarians, and collection specialists to establish priorities, develop workflows, and meet project goals and timelines.

Key activities

Cataloging a newly acquired donation of Arabic and other Islamic-language materials.
Creating original and complex copy cataloging records in OCLC and Alma.
Conducting authority work and quality control to improve discovery and access.
Identifying rare, unique, or special collections materials suitable for digitization.
Tracking project progress and contributing to project documentation.
Collaborating with library staff to ensure timely availability of materials for research and instruction.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and at least two years of cataloging experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Reading knowledge of Arabic and ability to catalog materials in Arabic script.
Knowledge of MARC 21, RDA, Library of Congress classification, and Library of Congress Subject Headings.
Experience using OCLC and integrated library systems.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred qualifications

MLIS degree
Experience cataloging Arabic, Persian, or other Islamic-language materials.
Experience with large-scale cataloging projects.
Experience with special collections cataloging and authority work.

Full/Part Time

Temporary

Education

NA

Salary

$35.00/hour

Closing Date

We will begin reviewing applications November 9, 2026.