Metadata Librarian at Columbia University Libraries

METRO | 599; New York (NY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

METRO | 599 in New York, NY, seeks a Metadata Librarian to develop and apply standards for managing metadata for digital collections. Key responsibilities include original metadata creation, cataloging in various formats, and contributing to policy development. Candidates must have an MLS or equivalent experience, knowledge in metadata tools and standards, and a strong aptitude for data management. The role supports collaboration with cross-functional teams and offers professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• MLS or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Working knowledge of identity management systems like Wikidata, ORCID.
• In-depth knowledge of metadata format and content standards.
• Experience in name authority work and disambiguation strategies.
• Familiarity with linked data concepts.

Responsibilities

• Assists in original metadata creation for digital and physical objects.
• Provides full original cataloging across various languages and formats.
• Contributes to the Program for Cooperative Cataloging.
• Evaluates and implements new tools & standards.
• Identifies issues, preparing documentation for policy development.

Skills

Metadata Management

Data Analysis

Cataloging Standards

Effective Communication

Education

MLS or equivalent

Tools

OpenRefine

MARCEdit

FOLIO

Python

Job description

The Collections Acquisition & Metadata Services Division (CAMS) is eager to recruit a new Metadata Librarian.

Reporting to the Head of Digital Resources Metadata, the Metadata Librarian will develop and apply standards and procedures for creating and managing metadata that supports the organization, preservation, and access of digital collections acquired by the Libraries. Working closely Digital Library and Scholarly Technologies Group and other cross-functional teams, the role ensures integration with local and national systems and provides original cataloging across diverse languages, formats, and media.

Key responsibilities include:

• Assists in original metadata creation, application and maintenance for digital and physical objects system-wide. This includes consultations, creating and maintaining documentation, data analysis, training, quality control, data transformation.
• Provides full original cataloging for resources in a variety of languages, formats and media, including identity management.
• Contributes to the programs of the Program for Cooperative Cataloging.
• Remediates metadata from legacy digital projects or for metadata provided by outside sources, such as collector and repository-generated metadata accompanying both acquired digital collections and those being digitized in house.
• Assists in the evaluation and implementation of new tools & standards with the goal to continuously improve metadata workflows as well as contributing to the automation of workflow steps.
• Contributes to departmental, division and national cataloging/metadata policy and procedure development by identifying issues, preparing documentation and training.
• Pursues professional development opportunities and involvement with local, regional, and national organizations. Participate in CUL and University-wide committees and special interest groups.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• MLS or equivalent combination of education and work experience
• Working knowledge of identities management systems, such as Wikidata, ORCID, VIAF/ISNI. Experience in name authority work and disambiguation strategies
• In depth knowledge of metadata format and content standards with working knowledge of cataloging standards and procedures (RDA, BIBFRAME, MODS, MARC 21, LCSH, FAST )
• Working knowledge of metadata tools and systems, including OpenRefine, MARCEdit, Connexion, and integrated library systems, such as FOLIO
• Working knowledge of Python and data exchange formats such as JSON, XML/XSLT and RDF/SPARQL
• Familiarity with linked data concepts
• Demonstrated aptitude for using technology creatively to continually improve processes that support data provision, data quality, data transformation, and long-term data management
• Demonstrated work in non-MARC metadata creation and curation, experience in providing technical services support for academic repositories and quality control for diverse projects.

Preferred:

• Aptitude for complex, analytical and detailed work
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent organizational and project management skills
• Ability to work across divisions and with faculty and scholars