Libraries Preservation Assistant

University of Minnesota Twin Cities; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

An established institution seeks a detail-oriented Libraries Preservation Assistant to support the preservation efforts of special collections. This role involves hands-on work with book and paper making, conservation, and documentation. The ideal candidate will enjoy working independently while also collaborating with a team. You will gain valuable experience in conservation techniques and contribute to maintaining the integrity of rare materials. Join a dynamic environment where your efforts will enhance access to information and enrich the community.

Qualifications

• Ability to follow diagrams and instructions.
• Ability to work independently and around dust with protective equipment.

Responsibilities

• Assist in performing photo documentation on complex treatments.
• Perform basic repairs and treatment on special collections projects.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Good verbal communication

Ability to work independently

Basic office skills

Job description

Working Job Title: Libraries Preservation Assistant

Department: Collection Management & Preservation

Reports to: Conservation Specialist

Job Code: Temporary Casual, 0001

Pay Rate: $17.50/hour - 14 hours/week

Work Hours: Monday-Friday, hours TBD

Job Summary:

Seeking an individual who enjoys detail-oriented work, likes to work with their hands, and has an interest in, or experience with, book and paper making, preservation, and/or conservation. Under the supervision of the Conservation Specialist, this position will provide support for the ongoing preventative preservation efforts of the Collection Management & Preservation Department. This position is responsible for performing basic conservation treatments, treatment documentation, assisting with collections assessments, and rehousing techniques to help care for our special collections materials.

The University of Minnesota Libraries’ current mission focuses on powering curiosity, discovery, and connection. UMN Libraries expand access to information, strengthen research and teaching, and enrich communities throughout Minnesota, the region, and the world.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Treatment documentation: assist in performing photo documentation on complex treatments and assist with writing formal treatment proposals and reports.
2. Perform basic repairs and treatment on special collections projects including paper repairs, cleaning.
3. Assist with collection assessment surveys.
4. Build custom enclosures for materials needing additional support after treatment.
5. Measure materials for vendor enclosures as needed.

Temp/Casual Employee Development Outcomes:

The University Libraries expect the temp/casual staff member to engage in activities which develop and demonstrate growth in the following areas:

Responsibility/Accountability:

• Meets agreed-upon expectations by being punctual and maintaining a stable attendance record.
• Attends and actively participates in scheduled training sessions.
• Takes responsibility for their own time management by notifying the Conservation Specialist in advance of schedule changes and availability by a specific date.
• Wears appropriate attire to ensure safety, including measures for preventing the spread of COVID-19, following the University’s safety guidelines.

Independence/Interdependence:

• Works on tasks independently, as per skill level and knowledge.
• Knows when to rely on peers for problem-solving and when to involve the Conservation Specialist.

Goal Orientation:

• Completes assigned projects during scheduled shifts without distractions.
• Identifies necessary repairs based on condition issues, with consultation from the Conservation Specialist.

Self-Awareness:

• Maintains an optimistic perspective and understands that tasks impact departmental performance and success.
• Demonstrates effective planning by documenting completed tasks and communicating steps taken.
• Builds positive professional relationships with co-workers and supervisors.

Resilience:

• Utilizes feedback to revise tasks in a changing environment, viewing errors as learning opportunities.
• Prepares for varied physical conditions, including dust, mold, and dirt, using provided safety materials.

Appreciation of Differences:

• Seeks input from others to improve decision-making, maintaining courtesy during disagreements.

Tolerance of Ambiguity:

• Understands productivity varies with collection conditions and success requires collective effort.
• Works effectively under uncertainty, recognizing that treatment approaches differ per item.

Minimum Requirements:

• Ability to follow diagrams and instructions.
• Ability to work around dust and odors with protective equipment.
• Basic office skills (typing, alphabetizing, etc.).
• Ability to work independently.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of handling rare objects and books.
• Exposure to library environments.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail, especially in repetitive tasks.
• Ability to adapt to change.
• Effective teamwork skills.
• Initiative and task focus.