Special Collections Student Cataloging Assistant; Federal -Study; Student Wage

***** Federal Work Study Students Only *****

The Harrison Institute and Small Special Collections Library at the University of Virginia is seeking a Student Book Cataloging Assistant.

About the position:
This is a part–time position (up to 10 hours per week) paying $16.71 per hour and is available to federal work study undergraduate and graduate students beginning January 12, 2026. The temperature in the work area is maintained at below 68 degrees Fahrenheit to better preserve the collections, so employees should dress accordingly.

Federal Work Study required:
Work‑Study (FWSA) eligibility during Fall/Spring semesters is required. Work‑Study employment is effective August 26, 2025 – May 8, 2026.

Working hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday‑Friday. For more information about the Albert & Shirley Small Special Collections Library, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

The duties include but are not limited to:

• Shelf‑preparation for newly cataloged printed and published materials. Duties include verifying call numbers in the online catalog, writing call numbers in pencil on call number labels and/or call number strips, placing barcodes on strips, scanning barcodes into the online catalog, and pasting call number labels and additional special bookplates in books.

• Shelving new material:
  The student assistant will be trained to properly shelve new materials including books, broadsides, and periodicals.

• Material retrieval:
  The student assistant will be trained to properly retrieve rare books, manuscripts, and university archives for patron requests.

• With additional training, duties may include stacks inventory, and retrospective addition of call numbers and barcodes to previously cataloged materials.

Please attach the following documents:

This position will require a background check.

Education:

Current UVA student

Experience:

None
Licensure:
None

Any library work experience, familiarity with U.S. and Virginia history and/or American literature. Foreign language skills a plus.
Excellent handwriting. Ability to handle rare and special materials with care. Ability to lift 40 lbs. boxes. Data entry and experience working with databases; good communication skills; accuracy and attention to detail; ability to multi‑task and finish tasks in a timely manner; ability to work independently as well as closely with others.

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings and programs. Ability to lift 40 lbs. boxes.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.  to read more about UVA’s commitment to non‑discrimination and equal opportunity employment.