Library Cataloging & Preservation Associate

Position Description

Updated July 15, 2025

Title: Library Cataloging & Preservation Associate

Division: Collections, Exhibitions & Research

Reports to: Manager of Library Cataloging

Position Status: Full-time;
Non‑Exempt

Salary Range/Pay Rate: $16/hour - $20/hour

Whether igniting a passion for the study of the past, empowering an interest in civic engagement, or providing an introduction to the Commonwealth, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture offers meaningful experiences for all. Whatever the role, your work here helps bring Virginia's story‑past, present, and future‑to life.

If you are curious, creative, and passionate about preserving and sharing Virginia history, your next chapter starts now!

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) seeks a qualified candidate for the position of Library Cataloging & Preservation Associate, who has an authentic interest in the mission and work of the VMHC. The Library Cataloging & Preservation Associate supports the documentation and discovery of VMHC's published collections through the creation of catalog records, digital content and metadata, and other descriptive data, with a focus on the serials collection.

This position also performs preservation measures to prepare published and manuscript collections for storage and public access.

• Accession incoming published collections
• Create, edit, and maintain published title and holdings records and subscription files
• Proofread published collections cataloging to ensure adherence to standard practices
• Edit and enhance existing published bibliographic and holdings records and make corrections to existing records in all formats to maintain consistency
• Catalog selected published materials according to AACR2, MARC
  21 RDA and LC standards; enter articles into OCLC and download into VMHC collections management system
• Prepare collections for stack filing, including creation of labels, bookplates, book jackets, phase boxes and flat files
• Participate in projects and outreach to promote access and enhance knowledge of the published collections and other VMHC resources
• Serve on cross‑functional teams and committees
• Assist library staff with reference services and library programming
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Knowledge of United States and Virginia history
• Ability to use office‑related computer programs (word processing, database management systems, spreadsheets, email), equipment (printers, photocopiers, scanners, etc.) and web‑based search engines
• Knowledge of and ability to apply AACR2, MARC
  21, RDA and LC standards to create descriptive records
• Ability to lift boxes or various objects of at least 40 pounds
• Attention to detail and accurate data entry skills
• Ability to master operation of board and paper cutters, edge rounders, etc., and to measure accurately
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with colleagues, volunteers, researchers and donors

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as history, library science, or museum studies, or a combination of education and library experience equivalent to a four‑year degree

• Medical, leave, wellness and retirement benefits offered in accordance with company policy.

• If interested in this job opportunity, please apply and upload your cover letter and resume to https://vi

Founded in 1831 as the Virginia Historical Society, the VMHC, a private, non‑profit organization, is the oldest museum and cultural organization in Virginia, and one of the oldest and most distinguished history organizations in the United States. The museum cares for a renowned collection of more than nine million items representing the far‑reaching story of Virginia.

The Virginia Historical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.