Library Assistant - Cataloging Specialist; Term

Library Assistant 5 - Cataloging Specialist (2 Year Term)

Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary for this position at the time of its posting. The starting wage rate is $21.00 per hour, depending on qualifications, experience, department budgets, and industry data. Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.

This two-year term Library Assistant 5 position is designed to address the cataloging backlog of rare materials, including books and works on paper, across several subject areas within the Special Collections of Kelvin Smith Library. The position reports directly to the Director of University Archives & Special Collections, with a secondary reporting line to the Head of Technical Services. The Cataloging Specialist will collaborate with library staff to coordinate the receipt and handling of rare books and archival materials, create copy catalog records, and assist catalogers and other librarians in maintaining an accurate inventory throughout all stages of processing.

• Perform, with occasional supervision and guidance, advanced copy and original cataloging tasks, including sourcing accurate source records, researching and describing documents and images, and performing complex copy cataloging for project materials, including rare books, spanning the 16th to 20th centuries and covering a wide range of subjects. (58%)
• Ensure compliance with national and local standards, such as MARC, RDA, DCRM(B), LCSH, LCNAF, LCC, OCLC, and LC cataloging practices. (23%)
• Collaborate with other library departments to coordinate and oversee the proper handling of rare materials, including routing to appropriate people and departments. Recommends improvements in processes to increase administrative efficiency. (12%)
• Contribute to a work culture of empathy, collaboration, and respect. (6%)

Performs other duties as assigned and assists with special projects as needed. (1%)

High school education with 6 years of related experience, or an Associate's degree with 3 years of related experience, or a Bachelor's degree in a related field.

• Knowledge of metadata schemas and standards, such as Dublin Core, MODS, EAD, RDA, DACS, DCRM(B), etc., and controlled vocabularies, such as LCSH, LCNAF, and AAT.
• Experience with creating, editing, and transforming MARC and non-MARC metadata.
• Demonstrated knowledge of integrated library systems and library catalogs, preferably Ex Libris' Alma/Primo, and working with MARC records.
• Demonstrated knowledge of OCLC Connexion and World Cat.
• Ability to handle details and multiple projects in an organized manner.
• Familiarity with best practices related to working with and describing rare materials.
• Computer skills, including word processing and familiarity with Google Apps; working knowledge of spreadsheet applications or any statistical applications required.
• Ability to exercise good judgment in situations that warrant individual interpretation of basic library policies and procedures.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills required to effectively collaborate with other staff members to achieve optimum service levels.
• Ability to perform routine tasks independently and under intermediate supervision.
• Demonstrated history of successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.
• Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face-to-face.

General office/library environment. The employee will perform repetitive motion using computer equipment. Required working hours will vary during final exams, university breaks, and holidays to meet staffing needs. Must be flexible to an adjusted work schedule to accommodate changes in operation hours. This is a Term position. They are treated like regular staff positions for medical and dental benefits eligibility, vacation, holidays, and sick time.

Term employees are not eligible for life insurance, retirement, long term disability, short term disability, tuition assistance, layoff status, or severance pay. Staff in term positions are also subject to the performance management review process and positive corrective action when work performance or behavior is unsatisfactory or unacceptable. Term employment does not alter the employment-at-will employee status of these employees.

Case Western Reserve University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are protected under federal and state laws and university policy from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or…