Specialist II (Dance Audio and Moving Image Cataloger)

Nycarchivists; New York (NY); On-site; USD 66,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Nycarchivists is seeking a Specialist II (Dance Audio and Moving Image Cataloger) to join the New York Public Library. The role involves original and complex cataloging of audio and moving image materials, with duties including adherence to national cataloging guidelines and conducting research in dance history.

Ideal candidates will hold an ALA-accredited Master’s degree and have experience in cataloging. This full-time, permanent position requires on-site work in New York.

Qualifications

• Experience with bibliographic cataloging or archival description.
• Knowledge of RDA and Library of Congress heading standards.
• Strong understanding of audio and moving image materials.

Responsibilities

• Perform original and complex copy cataloging of audio and moving image materials.
• Search for and apply authority headings and terms in bibliographic records.
• Conduct research on dance and performance history.

Skills

Knowledge of metadata content and value standards

Identification of audio and moving image formats

Proficiency with productivity software

Ability to work independently

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Education

ALA-accredited Master’s degree in library or archival studies

Educational background in dance or performing arts history

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Google Sheets

Job description

Specialist II (Dance Audio and Moving Image Cataloger)

Position Type

Full-time, permanent

Benefits

Yes

Salary Range

$66,000 - $75,000

Supervisor

Manager, Audio and Moving Image Description

Overview

The New York Public Library (NYPL) has been one of the world’s greatest public research libraries for more than 130 years. The research centers offer unparalleled opportunities to engage with in-depth and unique collections, inspirational reading rooms, exhibitions, programs, and a range of research services. The Collections and Research Services division encompasses several departments focused on managing the ongoing development and processing of our exceptional research collections, advancing unified discovery and expanded access, both in-person and online, and ensuring stewardship of the collections at every stage of the collections lifecycle.

Within Special Collections Processing, the Rare Materials Cataloging Department (RMC) ensures long-term stewardship and access to the Library’s most distinctive collections through bibliographical description and stewardship of rare and unique materials for inclusion in the Library’s catalogs.

Reporting to the Manager for Audio and Moving Image Description, the Specialist II is primarily responsible for the original and complex copy cataloging of materials in all audio and moving image formats, including born digital, for special collections held by the Jerome Robbins Dance Division at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts.

Responsibilities

• Perform original and complex copy cataloging of audio and moving image materials, creating MARC21 records to full level cataloging standards.
• Adhere to RDA guidelines, Library of Congress standards, and other national cataloging guidelines for audiovisual cataloging, such as OLAC, ARSC, DACS, and ISBD.
• Search for and apply name, subject, and uniform title authority headings and form and genre terms in bibliographic records.
• Identify contributors, choreographic works, and musical works needing authorized access points created in the Library of Congress Name Authority File (LCNAF).
• Conduct research on dance and performance history, utilizing NYPL collections and outside reputable resources to ensure accuracy in catalog record information.
• Utilize library guidelines and audio and moving image format knowledge to make decisions regarding duplicates and multi-volume or related recordings.
• Provide input on internal procedural documentation and best practices.
• Perform other related duties as necessary.

Required Education, Experience & Skills

Education and Certifications

• ALA‑accredited Master’s degree in library, archival, or information studies, or a Master’s degree in audio and/or moving image preservation, liberal arts or humanities and professional experience working for libraries or archives.
• Educational background or strong subject‑area interest in dance or performing arts history.

Experience

• Experience with bibliographic cataloging or archival description in previous positions or internships.

Skills

• Knowledge of metadata content and value standards, especially RDA and Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) and Name Authority File (LCNAF).
• Identification of audio and moving image formats, generation, and preliminary condition/preservation issues.
• Proficiency with productivity software, especially spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.
• Ability to work independently, within a defined time frame, problem solve, and prioritize cataloging tasks.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in working tactfully with other library staff in a team setting.

Managerial / Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Physical Duties

• Moving book trucks and materials that may weigh up to 35 lbs.
• May require travel within NYC.

Union

Local 1930

FLSA Status

Non‑Exempt

Schedule

• 35 hours per week.
• On‑site, Monday‑Friday from 9:00am‑5:00pm.

Location

Based onsite at the Library Services Center in Long Island City, Queens, but also works at the Library for the Performing Arts in Manhattan as necessary.

This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job‑related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.