Special Collections Librarian

National Building Museum; Washington; On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental and Vision insurance

403(b) plan with match

11 paid holidays

Generous paid time off

Job summary

The National Building Museum is seeking a Special Collections Librarian to develop and implement a processing plan for its Beverly Willis Library collection of about 10,000 rare books, manuscripts, and related items. The Librarian will catalog and data-enter items, coordinating with staff to enable public access and potential WorldCat integration.

The two-year, grant-funded position ends December 31, 2028, with applications closing November 29, 2026.

Qualifications

• Degree in Library and Information Sciences.
• 2-3 years of experience working with library collection data and meeting cataloging needs.
• Knowledge of library cataloging techniques and best practices.
• Familiarity with architectural history and terms.
• Familiarity with proper object handling techniques and space constraints.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Familiarity with library databases; PastPerfect is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Create cataloging standards for the library collection.
• Develop a finding aid for online library integration.
• Assess need for a new library database and oversee data migration from PastPerfect.
• Reorganize and rehouse materials as needed.
• Source and order archival supplies for the project.
• Update labeling systems and link related items in the database.
• Survey archival material for conservation concerns.

Skills

Cataloging data

PastPerfect knowledge

Archival processing

Communication skills

Education

MLS / MLIS in Library Science

Tools

PastPerfect

WorldCat integration

Library databases

Job description

Description

We are a private non-profit institution that transforms understanding of the history and impact of architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, and design.

The National Building Museum educates, entertains, and engages people about the built environment and challenges them to advocate for a sustainable and equitable future.

Position Description

The National Building Museum is currently seeking a Special Collections Librarian with an anticipated start date of January 2027. This position will be responsible for developing a comprehensive processing plan for the 10,000 rare books, manuscripts, pamphlets, and related items in the Museum’s Beverly Willis Library collection. The Librarian will then enact this processing plan by cataloging & collecting data from the items in this collection and collaborating with the department to determine next steps for making the collection accessible to the public, such as integrating data with OCLC’s WorldCat. Under the supervision of the Museum’s Senior Registrar, Director of Collections, the Librarian will process and preserve specific collections in accordance with IMLS grant requirements.

The Beverly Willis Library collection includes historic and modern books, pamphlets, and manuscripts related to the built environment and the evolution of building techniques, architectural styles, and materials.

This is a two year, grant funded position with an end date of December 31, 2028. Applications will close at midnight on Sunday, November 29, 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities

For the Beverly Willis Research Library Collection:

• Under the guidance of the Director of Collections and Collections Manager, create cataloging standards for the Museum’s library collection.
• Follow standards as created to complete a finding aid for the library collection according to those standards capable of being integrated into an online Library database.
• Assess the potential need for a new library database and oversee data migration from PastPerfect if needed.
• Reorganize and rehouse materials as appropriate.
• Source and order archival supplies for the project.
• Update labeling systems and records, including linking related items in the database.
• Survey the archival material for conservation concerns.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Degree in Library and Information Sciences.
• 2-3 years of experience working with library collection data and meeting cataloging needs.
• Knowledge of library cataloging techniques and best practices.
• Knowledge of architectural history and terms.
• Knowledge of correct object handling techniques, keen spatial awareness, and ability to move within constricted spaces.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Familiarity with library databases, PastPerfect is a plus.

ADA Specifications

• Position requires working with potentially hazardous materials. Proper gloves and protection will be provided.
• This is an active work position that requires the ability to move about the library storage area.
• Position requires being on one’s feet up to 8 hours per day.
• Employee may be responsible for moving objects up to 45lbs. and working on tall ladders when needed.

What we offer

Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

• Medical, Dental and Vision insurance.
• Employer paid Life and Disability insurance.
• 11 paid holidays.
• Generous paid time off policy.
• 403 (b) plan with match.
• Museum Shop discounts.
• Free on-site parking.