Rare Books Curator of Special Collections

• Applies professional best practices to instruction using the special collections.
• Provides guidance for the development and management of rare books at Vanderbilt. Purchases new titles for the rare book collections. Manages the security and care of the rare book collections. Works with cataloging staff to prioritize rare books to be cataloged.
• In conjunction with the director and Vanderbilt development, works with potential donors to attract new acquisitions. Evaluates potential donations to the rare book collections. Works with donors to transfer materials and is the point person for stewardship of donors.
• Provides reference service to students, faculty, staff, and scholars about special collections.
• Contributes to raising the profile of rare book collections through programs and outreach.
• Participates in regular schedule of exhibitions.
• Identifies and applies for grants when applicable to rare book projects.
• Presents and publishes regularly about the rare book collections.
• Supervises paraprofessionals, students, and volunteers.

  Qualifications

• Bachelor of Arts in humanities field is required.
• Master's degree in Library and Information Sciences from an ALA-accredited university is required.
• Master's degree in English or history is preferred.
• Minimum of three years of experience in a research or academic library in special collections is required.
• Demonstrated capacity to work effectively and collegially with library staff as well as with faculty, students, and donors is required.
• Ability to perform effectively in and contribute successfully to a diverse, multicultural environment is required.
• Capacity to thrive in the changing environment of a major research institution and to respond effectively to changing needs and priorities is required.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills are required,
• Demonstrated project management skills is required.
• Knowledge of anti-racist archival theory and practice is preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of archival information management systems, particularly ArchivesSpace and Aeon is preferred.
• Knowledge of the printing and publishing history of early modern Europe, Great Britain, and the United States is preferred.
• Proficiency in Latin and at least one modern European language is preferred.
• Experience in distinctive collections development is preferred.
• Experience with the antiquarian book trade is preferred.
• Editorial or other extensive writing experience is preferred.
• Knowledge of historical and literary manuscript sources is preferred.
• Practical understanding of the crafts of printing, binding, and book conservation is preferred.

  Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education. Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.   About Us Vanderbilt is a community of talented and diverse staff & faculty!

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice through:

• Working and growing together as a community of communities... we are One Vanderbilt.
• Providing a work environment where every staff and faculty member can be their authentic and best self, while providing the resources and opportunities to learn and grow.
• Encouraging development, collaboration, and partnership both internally and externally while fostering the value that every member of the Vanderbilt community can lead and grow regardless of title or position.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

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