Librarian III

City of Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Houston's Houston Public Library is seeking a Librarian III Cataloging Supervisor to lead the cataloging team in Library Materials Services. The role requires MLS and strong cataloging expertise across AACR2R standards, authority control, and MARC records.

You will supervise staff, develop policies, and collaborate across divisions to ensure accurate metadata and timely processing. Work hours are Monday–Sunday, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM with some flexibility.

Qualifications

• MLS from a school accredited by the American Library Association.
• Three years library experience, including lead or supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of current cataloging standards and practices (RDA, MARC, LCSH, AACR2 legacy).
• Experience with cataloging policies, workflows, and metadata quality.
• Ability to train staff and present on cataloging topics.
• Proficiency with SirsiDynix Symphony ILS and OCLC Connexion.

Responsibilities

• Perform original and copy cataloging of library materials across formats.
• Assign subject headings and classifications using LCSH and Dewey.
• Supervise and train staff and volunteers.
• Oversee authority control, bibliographic and item-record maintenance.
• Develop and improve cataloging policies and automated workflows.
• Collaborate with other teams and prepare workload reports.

Skills

Cataloging supervision

Original & copy cataloging

AACR2R standards

Staff training

Authority control

Communication skills

Education

Master of Library Science

Tools

SirsiDynix Symphony ILS

OCLC Connexion

MarcEdit

MS Word

Excel

Access

Job description

Position Overview

APPLICATION ACCEPTED FROM: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

Position Overview

APPLICATION ACCEPTED FROM: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

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 an experienced, flexible, team-oriented person to serve as the Librarian III Cataloging Supervisor. The ideal candidate will have cataloging skills to lead and supervise the cataloging team in the Library Materials Services Division.

HPL serves a population of 2.2 million citizens through a network of Neighborhood Libraries spread out across the Houston area. Successful candidates will communicate effectively, be an active participant in team settings, provide exceptional customer service, enjoy working with, learning, and teaching new and emerging technologies, be at ease multitasking in a fast-paced public library setting and enjoy interacting with people of all ages from diverse backgrounds.

Essential job duties and responsibilities for a Librarian III – (Cataloging Supervisor) will include:

• Perform original and copy cataloging of library materials in all subject areas and formats in accordance with current AACR2R cataloging standards and library policies.
• Assign subject headings and classification numbers to library materials using Library of Congress subject headings and Dewey Decimal Classification system.
• Supervise and train assigned staff and volunteers.
• Oversee authority control, bibliographic and item-record maintenance, vendor record loads, batch editing, and database quality assurance.
• Develop, document, and improve HPL cataloging policies, procedures, macros, and automated workflows.
• Train or present on current cataloging practice to Customer Experience staff and answer their cataloging questions.
• Participate in library system-wide planning, committees, and working groups.
• Collaborate with Collection Development, Acquisitions, ILS, Digital Archives, and Customer Experience teams. Compile and analyze workload statistics, prepare reports, and ensure projects and routine work meet established deadlines.
• Work in a dynamic environment with frequently changing priorities.
• Plan and work effectively to meet timelines and deadlines.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  
  

Applicants are encouraged to submit a Cover Letter and Resume when applying. For a location listing of our 37 Neighborhood Libraries, please visit www.houstonlibrary.org/hpl-locations .

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 simple gross motor responses within large tolerances.

Minimum Requirements

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires Master of Library Science degree from a school accredited by the American Library Association.

Experience Requirements

Three years of library experience are required, including one of the years with lead or supervisory experience.

License

May require a valid Texas driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston's policy on driving AP 2-2.

PREFERENCES

• Demonstrated knowledge of current cataloging standards and practices, including RDA, MARC 21, DDC, LCSH, authority control, and OCLC cataloging standards, with familiarity with AACR2 legacy records.
• Experience using SirsiDynix Symphony ILS, OCLC Connexion, MarcEdit, and Microsoft Word, Excel and Access.
• Experience with metadata standards, and digital asset management/ digital collections platforms.
• Reading knowledge of one or more foreign languages preferred.
• Proficient computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with others.
• Able to succinctly present information in a compelling and interesting manner.
• Demonstrated analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Bilingual skills (Spanish/English).
  
  

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.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION - YES

If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

PAY GRADE - 23

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.