Rare Materials Cataloguer at Duke University Libraries – Museum Studies

Job Title: Cataloguer

Job Status: Full-time

Location: Durham, NC

Salary: $55,000 – $65,000

About:

The Rare Materials Cataloger is responsible for the description of printed materials in all formats and single manuscript items for the David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library. They catalog items and oversee assigned cataloging projects for the Rubenstein Library in collaboration with other staff in the Duke University Libraries.

Responsibilities:

Performs original and complex copy cataloging for single items in all formats and in multiple languages; ensures the quality of bibliographic records through compliance with international and local standards, including the Rubenstein Library’s Guiding Principles for Description; inputs and edits bibliographic, holdings, and item information as needed to ensure accuracy and completeness of information; enhances or replaces OCLC records within established guidelines; assigns Library of Congress Classification call numbers; constructs name headings in accordance with RDA and PCC; manages holdings information and reporting to electronic union catalogs. (65%)
Assists with planning and management of short and long-term cataloging projects and their physical workflows; assists in the coordination of Rubenstein cataloging projects and workflows with other units, including DUL Technical Services, Digital Collections and Curation Services, and RL’s Archival Processing Section and Collection Development Department. (10%)
In consultation with the Head, Rare Materials Cataloging Section, develops and documents policies and workflows for the description and data management of rare materials; researches and keeps abreast of best practices and emerging standards for the description of rare materials in all formats. (5%)
Serves as expert in ILS functionality and other industry software used to manage ILS data; assists in managing Rubenstein data in the ILS; performs data clean-up and batch processing of bibliographic, holdings and items records as needed; manages list of data clean-up projects. (10%)
Displays continuing growth in subject knowledge of rare materials cataloging, linked data, metadata technologies, and other trends in the field. Growth and interest should be demonstrated through continuing development of professional knowledge and abilities, including discussions and practices around inclusive and reparative description; membership and participation in professional organizations; and service to the library, University, or community in a professional capacity. (5%)
Implements special projects and performs other duties as assigned. (5%)

Supervisory Responsibilities

May manage student assistant(s) and library or graduate student interns.

Qualifications

It is the expectation that all Duke University Libraries staff members will demonstrate exceptional workplace behaviors in the execution of their specific position responsibilities. These behaviors are customer focus, collaboration, creative problem solving, continuous learning, and a commitment to creating a culture of inclusion that values and respects diversity of perspective, background, and experience.

Education:

Required: Master’s degree with a concentration in library science from an ALA-accredited program or an advanced degree in a related field; or equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience.

Experience:

Required: Three years of experience cataloging in an academic, research, or public library setting; knowledge of RDA and MARC 21 formats; working knowledge of OCLC cataloging utilities; effective analytical and writing skills; demonstrated proficiency using computer based technology and ability to adapt to new technologies; flexibility and capacity to thrive in a rapidly changing environment; excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills; ability to work independently and as a member of a team; demonstrated commitment to providing outstanding customer service.

Preferred: Experience cataloging serials/continuing resources; experience creating NACO authority records; formal training in rare book cataloging and descriptive bibliography and experience using the DCRM suite; bibliographic knowledge of one or more non-English languages.

Working Conditions

Frequently works in an environment in which exposure to materials containing dust and mold is likely.
Frequent bending, crouching, or stooping is likely.
Normal office environment.
Occasional reading room weekend shifts required.
Occasional travel possible.

These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the employee in this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in this position. This description is subject to change at any time.

Salary and Benefits

Salary and rank dependent on qualifications and experience; the anticipated range is $55,000-$65,000. Comprehensive benefits package includes 20 days vacation, 13 holidays, 12 days sick leave; health, dental, disability and life insurance and support for professional development and training.

Environment

Since its founding in 1924, Duke University has grown into one of the most prestigious private universities in the world and its medical center ranks annually among the top in the nation. The Duke University Libraries are the shared center of the university’s intellectual life, connecting people and ideas. The Libraries consist of the Perkins Library, Bostock Library, Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Lilly Library, and Music Library, and the library at the Duke Marine Laboratory in Beaufort. Duke’s library holdings of 6.2 million volumes are among the largest of private universities in the United States.

Duke is a diverse community committed to the principles of excellence, fairness, and respect for all people. We recognize that the workplace only truly flourishes with an active presence of different backgrounds and unique abilities. We value the unseen perspective, the unheard voice, and the unnoticed ideas. We hope to give a platform of growth and connection, where employees can be free to produce new ways of thinking to promote inclusion and respect for all. Duke University Libraries encourages an environment where shared goals are reached by exceptional individuals.

Duke’s hometown is Durham, North Carolina, a city with vibrant research, medical and arts communities, and numerous shops, restaurants and theaters. Durham is located in the Research Triangle, a growing metropolitan area of more than one million people that provides a wide range of cultural, recreational and educational opportunities. The Triangle is conveniently located just a few hours from the mountains and the coast, offers a moderate climate, and has been ranked among the best places to live and to do business.

Duke offers a comprehensive benefit package which includes both traditional benefits such as health insurance, leave time and retirement, as well as wide ranging work/life and cultural benefits. Details can be found at: http://www.hr.duke.edu/benefits/index.php.

To Apply:

Cover letter, detailed resume and the names, addresses (mailing and e-mail), and telephone numbers of three references should be submitted to https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/21374. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Applications which are missing any of the components listed above will not be reviewed.

Duke University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, gender, gender identity, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status. The Duke University Libraries have a strong commitment to Affirmative Action and is actively seeking to increase the racial and ethnic diversity of our staff.