Special Collections Librarian

Special Collections Librarian

The Yale Divinity Library seeks a service-focused and collaborative librarian to supervise the daily operations of its Special Collections unit, manage archival acquisitions, processing, description, and public access, and oversee a small team of staff and volunteers.

• Acquire, process, arrange, and describe archival collections in multiple languages and formats, applying national and departmental standards.
• Supervise reading room operations, including policy development, material movement, and digitization oversight.
• Screen materials for sensitivity, recommend preservation and conservation procedures, and coordinate reformatting for access.
• Create and enhance descriptive, administrative, and technical metadata using Archives Space and other library management systems.
• Facilitate student and researcher access; provide reference and instruction services in the reading room.
• Collaborate with Yale faculty to integrate collections into curricula and support instructional sessions.
• Train and supervise archival assistants, student assistants, and interns; recommend staffing and equipment needs.
• Participate in policy development, committee work, and library-wide planning; contribute to professional activities.
• Assist in disaster recovery efforts and support long‑range institutional planning.

• Proficiency in archival appraisal, arrangement, and description practices and standards.
• Knowledge of archival and library management systems; familiarity with EAD finding‑aid creation and Archives Space.
• Awareness of current national data content and structure standards for archival control.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently in a complex, changing environment.
• Initiative, sound judgment, creativity, flexibility, and commitment to Yale Library values.

• Ph.D. in theology, religious studies, or related field.
• Reading proficiency in a non‑English language.

• Master's degree from an ALA‑accredited library school or equivalent; formal training in archival theory and practice.
• Minimum of two years of experience arranging and describing manuscript and/or archival collections.
• Experience collaborating with varied groups in a complex organization.
• Knowledge of archival and library management systems.
• Familiarity with archival theory and practice (or formal training).
• Knowledge of national data content and structure standards for archival control.
• Experience with basic preservation and conservation standards for manuscript and archival collections.
• Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills; analytical ability.
• Track record of designing and completing projects within time constraints.

Yale University is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and respectful work environment. Yale does not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, disability, or any other status protected by law.

This position is full‑time, on‑site, and classified as a professional staff role. Compensation ranges from $68,000 to $145,250, depending on experience and qualifications. Background checks, health assessments, and other standard pre‑employment procedures apply. The University welcomes applications from all qualified candidates and encourages applicants who demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion through their work, service, research, or teaching.