Cataloger of Special Collections; term limited

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This is a full-time four-year term limited, benefits eligible position.

Reporting to the Head of Technical Services of the Schlesinger Library, the Special Collections Backlog Cataloger works within a newly reimagined technical services unit that unites archival technical services with books and published materials. In an environment that supports a cohesive, integrated program for processing, cataloging, acquisitions, and metadata management across all formats, the incumbent will focus on intensive cataloging and metadata creation for books, serials, and ephemera identified as part of a four-year backlog remediation initiative.

The Cataloger will oversee the backlog cataloging project, using project management skills to plan and manage workflow work so that cataloging and description goals are met within the defined project period. The position emphasizes advanced cataloging, original and complex copy cataloging according to current standards and best practices, and the creation, enhancement, and maintenance of high-quality metadata to support discovery and access.

The Cataloger will collaborate closely with colleagues responsible for archives and other formats and will help refine workflows and local practices related to special collections cataloging.

This position is grounded in a user-centered approach to technical services, recognizing that cataloging and metadata creation are essential to enabling access, discovery, and engagement with special collections.

• Perform original and complex copy cataloging for rare and special collections materials in a variety of formats, adhering to current national and international standards (e.g., RDA, DCRM(B)/DCRMR, LCNAF, LCSH).

• Create, enhance, and maintain high-quality bibliographic and authority records in the ILS (Alma) and OCLC Connexion.

• Create original cataloging in OCLC for various library materials in multiple languages and subject fields according to current metadata content and structure standards.

• Perform serials bibliographic cataloging and create detailed holdings records, often from multiple workflows, following CONSER guidelines.

• Perform complex copy cataloging in all subjects collected by the library, including materials in Romance and other languages.

• Ensure accurate recording of provenance, bindings,…