The Columbia University Libraries seeks a Collections Management Archivist for the Rare Book and Manuscript Library. Reporting to the Head of Collections Management of the RBML, the Archivist coordinates the intake and ongoing maintenance of all collections, regardless of format, for Columbia University's Rare Book & Manuscript Library. The position works with Curators, the Director of the RBML, Shipping & Receiving staff, and collection donors to arrange the delivery of collections and accessions the materials, creating new cataloging records, assigning stack locations for materials, inspecting incoming materials for potential major conservation problems (mold, insect damage), and tracking accessions via acquisition forms, stack directory and collection management database. The Archivist contributes to planning, policy and procedure development and is expected to keep abreast of methods, guidelines and approaches for managing special collections materials.
The incumbent also works with curators and archivists to identify and prepare materials for being transferred offsite to ReCAP, Columbia's shared offsite storage facility, and liaises with ReCAP coordinator to schedule and arrange the transfers and troubleshoot problems as they arise. The Collection Management Archivist's responsibilities also include hiring and training RBML student employees and assigning and supervising collection management student projects.
Other responsibilities include monitoring and ordering preservation supplies, monitoring stack conditions, assisting with space planning and moving, and liaising with CUL Facilities to maintain cleanliness and order in the stacks, and an accurate stack directory.
The incumbent also performs accessioning-as-processing on additions and small collections, including maintenance/updates of bibliographic records and finding aids, as well as to triage, rehouse and inventory new and legacy collections as needed.
The position is also expected to supports and participate in the RBML public service rotation by serving as a backup or on the desk as necessary
As one of the world's leading research universities, Columbia University in the City of New York provides outstanding opportunities to work and grow in a dynamic, multicultural, intellectual community. The Columbia University Libraries are composed of a diverse and engaged staff committed to furthering the University's teaching and research mission through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.
Minimum Qualifications: All applicants MUST meet these minimum qualifications to be considered for the position.
MLS from ALA-accredited library school, or advanced degree in archival management or related discipline, or equivalent experience;
Demonstrated knowledge of collection management and processing of archival materials;
Demonstrated awareness of new and emerging standards and technologies relevant to management of special collections;
Excellent organizational skills and effective verbal and written communication skills;
Ability to lift up to 50-pound boxes and work with dusty materials.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working in an academic library setting
Familiarity with project management best practices
Demonstrated aptitude for using technology effectively
Aptitude for complex, analytical, and detailed work
Familiarity with digital asset management
Working knowledge of ASpace and Aeon
Experience in managing student workers
Salary Range: $72,530 - $78,000
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Pay Transparency Disclosure
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
Columbia University is one of the world's most important centers of research and at the same time a distinctive and distinguished learning environment for undergraduates and graduate students in many scholarly and professional fields. The University recognizes the importance of its location in New York City and seeks to link its research and teaching to the vast resources of a great metropolis. It seeks to attract a diverse and international faculty and student body, to support research and teaching on global issues, and to create academic relationships with many countries and regions. It expects all areas of the university to advance knowledge and learning at the highest level and to convey the products of its efforts to the world.