Librarian II (Cataloging)

City of Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston Public Library is seeking a Librarian II – Cataloging to perform original and copy cataloging and maintain bibliographic records for all formats and languages. The role supports discovery and access, applying cataloging standards and local policies with sound judgment.

The position requires an ALA-accredited MLS and at least one year of library experience, or a bachelor's with MLS coursework and two years of library experience. Strong MS Office and SharePoint skills preferred.

Qualifications

• Requires an ALA-accredited Master of Library Science degree and one year of library experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform original and copy cataloging in English, Spanish, and other languages using current standards.
• Assign subject headings and classification numbers (LCSH, DDC).
• Update and maintain bibliographic and item records; correct errors and perform authority control.
• Edit, load, review, and validate vendor cataloging records in the library’s ILS.
• Assist with inventory projects across Houston Public Library locations.
• Contribute to developing and maintaining the Cataloging Manual and local procedures.
• Demonstrate proficiency with MS Office 365 and SharePoint in daily tasks.
• Carry out other duties as assigned.

Skills

MARC coding

RDA

DDC

LCSH

Multilingual cataloging

Education

MLS degree (ALA-accredited)

Bachelor’s + 18 hours toward MLS

Tools

OCLC Connexion

SirsiDynix Symphony ILS

Microsoft Office 365

SharePoint

Job description

Position Overview

Houston Public Library (HPL) is seeking experienced, flexible, team-oriented person with a passion for customer service to work as Librarian II – Cataloging in the Library Materials Services unit. This position performs original and copy cataloging, maintains accurate bibliographic and item records, and supports discovery of library materials across formats and languages. The successful candidate will apply cataloging standards and local policies, exercise sound judgment, and work effectively with colleagues to provide timely access to library collections.

DIVISION / SECTION: Library Materials Services / Cataloging

Workday & Hours: Monday - Sunday , 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM ***subject to change***

Description Of Duties / Essential Functions

Houston Public Library (HPL) is seeking experienced, flexible, team-oriented person with a passion for customer service to work as Librarian II – Cataloging in the Library Materials Services unit. This position performs original and copy cataloging, maintains accurate bibliographic and item records, and supports discovery of library materials across formats and languages. The successful candidate will apply cataloging standards and local policies, exercise sound judgment, and work effectively with colleagues to provide timely access to library collections.

Essential job duties and responsibilities for a Librarian II - Cataloging will include:

• Performing original and copy cataloging of library materials in all subject areas and in all formats; in English, Spanish, and other World Languages in accordance with current RDA cataloging standards and library policies
• Assigning subject headings and classification numbers to library materials using Library of Congress subject headings and Dewey Decimal Classification system.
• Updating and maintaining bibliographic and item records, including correcting errors and performing authority control to ensure consistent name and subject access points.
• Editing, loading, reviewing, and validating vendor-provided cataloging records for a variety of library materials into the library’s ILS.
• Assisting in inventory projects at various Houston Public Library locations when a representative from the Cataloging section is needed.
• Assisting with developing and maintaining HPL Cataloging Manual of best practices, local policies, and procedures.
• Having a strong working knowledge of the Microsoft operating system and software, including Microsoft Office 365 and SharePoint.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

The position occasionally requires stooping or bending. Occasional very light lifting, such as three or four reams of papers or books (up to 20 pounds or an equivalent weight) may be required. There are no major sources of discomfort, i.e., essentially normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature and air conditions. Requires the ability to make coordinated gross motor movements in response to changing external stimuli within moderately demanding tolerances; or the ability to make coordinated eye/hand movements on a patterned response space within low tolerance demands with no real speed requirements.

Minimum Requirements

EDUCATIONAL / EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Requires a Master’s of Library Science degree from a school accredited by American Library Association (ALA) and one year of library experience.

OR

Requires a Bachelor’s degree plus 18 hours toward a Master’s of Library Science degree from a school accredited by ALA and two years of library experience.

A Master’s of Library Science degree must be completed within two years from being hired into this classification.

Preferences

• 1 year of experience in a Cataloging unit required.
• Proficient computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Experience with MARC coding, RDA, DDC, LCSH.
• Experience using OCLC Connexion and SirsiDynix Symphony ILS.
• Experience cataloging non-English materials as well as non-traditional library items.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with others.
• Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.

General Information

Selection / Skills Tests Required

The selection process will involve application review and/or Interview. The department may administer skills assessment test.

All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.

If you need special services or accommodations, call 832-393-0473. (TTY 7-1-1). If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.

Safety Impact Position

YES

Pay Grade

21

Salary Information

Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

EOE Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.