DLA

Library Assistant III

Library Assistant III, Special Collections Department

The University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press seeks a detailed-oriented individual to participate in processing and exhibition of special collections materials across multiple formats and languages. This is a 12-month, full-time, nonexempt position.

Reporting to the Coordinator, Books and Printed Materials, major responsibilities include:

• Perform specialized processing activities for rare book and printed material
• Serve as the lead preparator on all Special Collections exhibitions, which includes conducting matting and framing, creating text labels and posters, and the physical installation of all displayed items
• Assist in the production of online digital exhibitions
• Hire, schedule, train, supervise, and coordinate projects for student assistants
• Supervise and administer environmental monitoring in all areas of Special Collections, including use and maintenance of specialized equipment
• Participate in general departmental public service functions, including reader services and reference assistance on the Special Collections service desk
• Conduct collection maintenance for rare book and printed material, including special format items such as historic maps, broadsides, and pamphlets
• Perform selected preservation treatments as needed including encapsulation and preparation of protective enclosures, humidification, and document cleaning
• Create digital surrogates of rare and unique materials using photographic equipment and scanning equipment as appropriate (as needed)
• Develop and maintain in-house databases and webpages for managing information relating to rare books and printed materials (as needed)
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED and three to five years of related experience, or Bachelor’s degree and one to three years related experience. Two years college course work preferred, in order to understand research value and scholarly use of rare books and special collection materials.
• Experience in research libraries, museums or cultural/historical institutions handling special materials and related records
• Requires specialized knowledge of library records in automated library systems and other specialized library databases, and procedures in specific library operations
• Ability to use advanced computer techniques in word processing, spreadsheet, database and Web-based applications
• Ability to work independently and devise solutions to problems
• Advanced organization and time management skills
• Ability to communicate effectively and interact well with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds
• Familiarity with general preservation techniques and treatments
• Previous supervisory and public service experience
• Experience using WordPress or similar content management systems preferred
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value.

General Information: The University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press is committed to   student success, scholarly research and inclusive excellence. The Library is strongly committed      to fostering diversity within our community. We welcome those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion, and will assist us to expand our capacity for diversity in the broadest sense.
See: library.udel.edu/

The Special Collections Department is comprised of 13 staff, including 8 librarians, a processing archivist, a Senior Research Fellow, a Pauline A. Young resident with a three year appointment, and 2 library assistants. Working as a team, the staff of Special Collections collects, arranges, describes, preserves, promotes, and makes accessible primary source materials and collections that support the teaching and research needs of the University’s faculty, staff and students, as well as those of the broader scholarly community, and the citizens of Delaware.

Work Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5pm

The full position announcement with application instructions is available here. The closing date is December 1, 2021.

Posted: 11/19/21