Senior Library Expert - Cataloging and Discovery-Cataloging

Brown University; Providence (RI); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University seeks a Senior Library Expert in Cataloging and Discovery-Cataloging to create and maintain bibliographic, holdings, and authority records across formats, using MARC 21, RDA and LC schemas.

You will train student assistants, participate in internal workflows, support discovery and access, and collaborate with subject specialists to ensure high-quality metadata and efficient access.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with subject area expertise or equivalent education/experience.
• 2+ years of cataloging experience required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of cataloging standards; foreign language knowledge preferred.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team.

Responsibilities

• Creates full-level original cataloging records for general and special collections in all languages.
• Edits complex copy cataloging records of holdings in print and non-print formats.
• Creates original authority records under NACO and SACO guidelines.
• Utilizes MARC 21, RDA, LCSH and LC classification schemas.
• Monitors trends in cataloging practice and keeps current with standards.
• Trains and directs work of student assistants.
• Participates in internal database maintenance and authority control.
• Provides support to subject specialists and library users.

Skills

Cataloging expertise

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree with subject area expertise or equivalent

Tools

MARC 21

RDA

LCSH

LC classification

Job description

Senior Library Expert - Cataloging and Discovery - Cataloging

Position Classification

Hybrid Eligible

Job Summary

Creates, contributes, and provides timely access to metadata for library resources to enable and enhance discovery and access. Performs complex cataloging functions in all formats and languages related to the creation and maintenance of bibliographic, holdings, and authority records in the LSP (Library Services Platform) and OCLC.

Typical Duties And Responsibilities

• Searches bibliographic information resources to identify and describe the content of library materials; researches additional online and offline information resources as needed
• Creates full-level original cataloging records for general and special collections, including archival materials, in all languages, under general supervision and following established guidelines
• Edits complex copy cataloging records of library holding in print and non-print formats (e.g., monographs, serials, audio-visual, electronic resources, PDFs, special collections materials, mixed media) in addition to: sound recordings, scores, hymnals, etc. as directed
• Creates original authority records under NACO and SACO guidelines
• Utilizes and understands current cataloging rules, tools, and standards, Machine Readable Cataloging (MARC 21), Resource Description and Access (RDA), Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) and other LC classification schema
• Monitors trends in cataloging practice and maintains active knowledge of the latest changes and updates to all cataloging standards through subscription to listservs, review of professional literature, online webinars, colloquia, classes, seminars, attendance at conferences
• Describes and catalogs manuscript collection materials if directed
• Identifies, investigates and resolves complex problems related to monographs, serials, and sets
• Assists subject specialists and library users regarding access to library materials
• Participates in ongoing internal database maintenance and authority control
• Creates and collaborates in the writing of documentation for the Cataloging Department utilizing knowledge of internal and external Library workflows and demand
• Participates in collaborative projects within Technical Services and across Library departments
• Creates and revises item, check-in and holding records and resolves relevant issues
• Trains, coordinates, and directs the work of student assistants
• Monitors Cataloging Department email account: maintains correspondence, responds to patron requests and questions, and/or forwards correspondence to appropriate staff as necessary
• Trains and provides assistance to co-workers
• Performs related duties as required

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with specific subject area expertise as required or equivalent level of education and/or experience (e.g., Associate’s Degree plus 2 years of experience, or 4 years of experience)
• 2 or more years of cataloging experience required
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to interact favorably with co-workers and library users
• Demonstrated knowledge of cataloging standards
• Strong computer skills, ability to use computer software packages (i.e. Microsoft Office Suite)
• Capacity to learn new technologies and systems
• Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills
• Knowledge of one or more foreign languages preferred
• Ability to take a collaborative approach to decision-making and problem-solving
• Ability to work in a team environment and to actively participate in team-based decision making

Library Union position, which must be posted internally for 5 work days prior to posting for external candidate

Candidates please note: all offers of employment are contingent upon a criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown.

Recruiting Start Date

2026-05-12

Job Posting Title

Senior Library Expert - Cataloging and Discovery-Cataloging

Department

University Library

Grade

Library Grades

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Position Work Location

Hybrid

Submission Guidelines

The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote. Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C. Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact [e-mail].

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.