Archival Metadata Librarian

THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA LIBRARIES

Archival Metadata Librarian

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The University of Alabama Libraries seeks a dynamic, forward-thinking individual for the position of Archival Metadata Librarian. This is a clinical appointment reporting to the Head of Metadata and Archival Processing in the Resource Acquisition & Discovery unit and working collaboratively with metadata librarians, archivists, and digital initiatives staff in Special Collections. The position supports access to and discovery of University Libraries rare and unique resources, including manuscript and photograph collections, rare published materials, historic maps, and University records. This position will play a role in improving discovery of archival materials for patrons and will be committed to More Product Less Processing (MPLP) workflows. Specific duties include, but are not limited to: accessioning, processing, and arranging manuscript and photo collections; creating, maintaining, evaluating, and enhancing metadata records and finding aids; managing authority control and subject description in the University Libraries archival data management system (ArchivesSpace); and keeping up-to-date with current trends and issues in archival assessment, arrangement, and description. Responsibilities of the position change as the library environment continues to evolve. This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early career librarian to gain an expert knowledge of all archival operations and practices at an R1 university Special Collections unit, working with colleagues who are dedicated to processing and providing access to a wide array of rare and unique materials related to Southern U.S., African American, and Latin American history.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s in Library Science from an ALA-accredited program.
• Experience with archival metadata creation and schemas including but not limited to: DACS, EAD, Dublin Core, LCSH, etc.
• Knowledge of current archival content and structure standards.
• Demonstrated understanding of More Product, Less Process (MPLP).
• Knowledge of basic preservation strategies for archival collections.
• Experience working independently and collaboratively with varied groups within a complex organization.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, including associated skills such as listening and adapting.
• Ability to solve problems independently or collaboratively, using sound judgment in decision-making.
• Knowledge of professional standards, best practices, and emerging technologies in metadata and libraries.
• Willingness to explore new technologies and to find ways to incorporate them in order to enhance services and complete tasks more efficiently.
• Responsibilities of this position change as the University Libraries continue to evolve.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• 1-2 years of professional experience processing manuscript and/or photograph collections, including physical arrangement and creation of finding aids in accordance with archival best practices.
• Experience working with ArchivesSpace or another archival data management system.
• Knowledge of data manipulation using MarcEdit, EXCEL, or OpenRefine.
• Experience working with born digital collections.
• Experience performing authority control.
• Knowledge of and experience working with photographic formats.
• Organizational and project management skills.
• Reading proficiency in Spanish or another European language.

SALARY/BENEFITS:

12 month clinical faculty appointment at the Assistant Professor rank. Salary range is $65,000.00 - $75,000.00, commensurate with qualifications, experience, and advanced degrees. Strong benefits, including professional development support, tuition fee waiver, and matching retirement contributions.

TO APPLY:

Applications are accepted online only at https://careers.ua.edu. Click Faculty Jobs, then University Libraries. Please include your application, Curriculum Vitae, and names, addresses, phone numbers, and e- mail addresses of three references, including one current supervisor. Consideration of applications will begin immediately and will continue until position is filled. Applications received by May 31, 2024, are assured of receiving full consideration. For questions regarding the search, contact Michael Arthur, Senior Associate Dean, at maarthur@ua.edu.  

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