Technical Services Librarian

Position Description

Reporting to the Head of Research Library, the Technical Services Librarian is responsible for managing systems and technical services for the library’s technical operations, including original and copy cataloging, inter-library loan, physical processing, and circulation. The position also provides critical public-facing services, including reference assistance, performing tours and orientations, and promoting library collections and services. 

Responsibilities

• Efficiently and accurately perform original and copy cataloging of library resources, including special collections, according to standards and best practices.
• Manage integrated library system circulation, serial check-in, and cataloging functions.
• Manage the library’s resource sharing (interlibrary loan) program.
• Provide a key public interaction point for library patrons by serving at the reference desk and answering research requests from staff, scholars, and the public.
• Play a key role in the creation and management of library digital collections (both born-digital and digitized)
• Manage the physical processing of library acquisitions.
• Assist with managing preservation and storage of library collection.
• Support promotion and help build awareness of the library’s collections and services as resources for greater community, in particular college and university students and faculty.
• Provide tours and orientations covering library, archives, and special collections; provide library system and research database instruction support with public events in the library in collaboration with the Museum’s Education Department.
• Working with the Head of the Research Library, collaborate cross-departmentally to activate the library as an engaging public space.
• Participate in professional organizations and actively share with colleagues as part of a continuing commitment to ensure alignment with best professional practices.
• Assist with gathering and reporting library statistics, including collecting system-generated statistics, and providing management and statistical reports on systems operations.
• Maintain confidentiality of museum information.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position supervises volunteers, interns, and practicum students, when applicable. 

Skills and Requirements

• Proficiency applying RDA cataloging standard to print and digital resources using MARC; familiarity with LCSH and LCGFT standards; familiarity with AACR2 and pre-AACR standards; knowledge of rare book cataloging methodologies.
• Experience applying Library of Congress subject headings and classification; familiarity with other subject-specific controlled vocabularies such as the Library of Congress Thesaurus for Graphic Materials (LCTGM), (DCRM), and the Art and Architecture Thesaurus (AAT).
• Experience using MARC-based authority records and familiarity with RDA authority record creation.
• Familiarity with OCLC systems and services, including Connexion and WorldShare Interlibrary Loan.
• Strong technology skills, including familiarity with integrated library system software (Ex Libris Alma and Primo preferred), digital library systems, database systems, digital repository software, cloud-based systems, and digitization/imaging technologies.
• Knowledge of preservation standards and methodologies for both print and digital resources.
• Knowledge of special collections handling and collections care standards.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical users.
• Ability to prioritize work to ensure that goals are achieved.
• Demonstrated project management experience.
• Ability to lift and move boxes up to 40 pounds; ability to climb ladders.

Key Characteristics/Traits

• Ability to work accurately, efficiently, and independently in a production-oriented environment.
• Self-starting and service-oriented work ethic with high level of initiative
• Ability to work harmoniously with staff across multiple museum departments.
• Commitment to following emerging developments in digital technologies as they apply to library research, including linked data and similar web technologies.
• Demonstrated commitment to providing quality reference service to the public
• Friendly and engaging demeanor; professional appearance
• Interest in American art, photography, and U.S. history

Qualifications/Education

• M.L.S. or M.I.S. from an ALA-accredited school
• Minimum two years working in a library technical services environment or equivalent experience. 
• Background in American art history preferred.

Other Job Requirements

• Successful completion of drug, background, and MVR screening.
• Periodically work irregular hours, including some nights and weekends. 
• Smartphone required
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods, operate standard office equipment and navigate Museum facilities.