Lead Librarian, Rare Materials Cataloger

Digital Library Federation; New York (NY); On-site; USD 78,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the field of library sciences is seeking a Lead Librarian, Rare Materials Cataloger. This exciting role involves overseeing the cataloging of rare books and manuscripts, establishing metadata standards, and leading a dedicated team. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a rich collection that supports original research and scholarship across various disciplines. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, this role is perfect for those passionate about library science and eager to make a meaningful impact in a collaborative environment. Join a forward-thinking institution that values professional development and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

22 vacation days

13 paid holidays

Health insurance

Life insurance

University retirement contributions

Childcare assistance

Adoption assistance

Child tuition reimbursement

Funding for professional development

Qualifications

• Master's degree in library science or related field required.
• At least 6 years of experience in rare materials cataloging.

Responsibilities

• Catalog and set direction for Library special collections materials.
• Establish metadata standards and supervise cataloging staff.

Skills

Rare materials cataloging

Metadata standards

RDA

DCRM standards

Library of Congress Subject Headings

MARC 21 formats

Authority data management

Training and managing staff

Diversity and inclusion

Education

Master’s degree in library or information science

Advanced degree in another academic discipline

Job description

Cornell University Library seeks an experienced professional for the position of Lead Librarian, Rare Materials Cataloger.

The opportunity: The Lead Librarian, Rare Materials Cataloger reports to the Director of Cataloging and Metadata Services in the Library Technical Services (LTS) department and is embedded within the Division of Rare and Manuscript Collections (RMC), Cornell University’s primary repository of rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and archival materials in the fields of history, literature, music, the arts, science, natural history, and technology.

Reflecting Cornell University’s motto (“I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study.”), RMC serves as a center for original research and scholarship in a wide variety of disciplines. Collection highlights include early photography, the history of science, human sexuality, witchcraft, the French Revolution, the Civil War and the abolitionist movement, Dante and Petrarch, Icelandic history and literature, and musical movements such as hip hop and punk.

Within CUL’s collaborative and supportive culture, you will be responsible for cataloging, and setting direction for cataloging, of Library special collections materials. You will establish metadata standards and practices for all Library special collections; supervise staff responsible for cataloging and acquisition of rare materials; lead, coordinate, consult, or assist with designated special projects related to organizing the Library special collections for effective use; and participate in decision-making in LTS.

As a Research, Teaching, and Extension (RTE) faculty member, you will engage in service, scholarship, and ongoing professional development to meet the requirements of promotion and reappointment at Cornell University Library.

Candidate profile:

• Master’s degree in relevant field, such as library or information science; or advanced degree in another academic discipline combined with relevant experience in library technical services; Reading knowledge of at least one written language in addition to English.
• At least 6 years of experience with rare materials cataloging, including substantial experience creating original records following DCRM standards.
• Experience training or managing the work of others.
• Demonstrated interest in and commitment to cultivating an environment of diversity, inclusion, and belonging; understanding of ways that groups have been marginalized through the creation and use of library metadata.
• Strong working knowledge of RDA, LC PCC Policy Statements, DCRM, Library of Congress Subject Headings, and MARC 21 bibliographic and authority formats.
• Demonstrated aptitude for creating and working with authority data (e.g. Library of Congress Authorities, Getty vocabularies, ORCID, ISNI, etc.).
• Flexibility and openness to evolving standards and practices.

Additionally, we would prefer:

• Reading knowledge of multiple languages other than English.
• Experience creating and updating name authority records in the Library of Congress Name Authority File.

This position is located in Ithaca, New York. The incumbent will work on the Ithaca campus.

Benefits: Our comprehensive benefits package includes 22 vacation days, 13 paid holidays, health insurance, life insurance, university retirement contributions, childcare and adoption assistance, and child tuition reimbursement. Funding is available to support professional development and research.

We expect to fill this position at the academic rank of Associate Librarian or Librarian. The anticipated salary range is $78,000-$110,000 and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

How to Apply: All candidates must apply online via the Cornell Careers site: See job requisition ID WDR-00049362. For full consideration, please include the following with your application:

1. A cover letter that addresses your interest and why you are a good candidate for this position.
2. A Curriculum Vitae.
3. To continue to meet our educational, research and service goals and to meet our commitment to our founding principle, we hire and invest in faculty members who share our historical commitment to pursuing knowledge for …any person…in any study. We ask applicants for all faculty positions to share their experiences and/or approaches (past, current or future) to fostering learning, research, service and/or outreach in such a diverse community. Applicants can submit a stand-alone statement or embed the information in other parts of their application materials.

We will review applications on a rolling basis and we strongly encourage early submission.