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Position Available: Columbia University Rare Book and Manuscript Library - Processing Archivist

The Columbia University Rare Book and Manuscript Library is searching for an experienced archivist to process archival and manuscript collections. Reporting to the Curator of Manuscripts and University Archivist, the Processing Archivist arranges and describes designated manuscript and archival collections in all formats; develops and documents processing plans for large collections and guidelines for levels of processing; assures appropriate archival housing for collections; identifies and refers items as necessary for conservation treatment; prepares and edits finding aids and other descriptive access tools; participates in implementation of EAD for encoded finding aids; supports the work of the RBML in MARC cataloging of manuscript and archival holdings in the Library's Voyager online catalog. Trains and supervises the work of support staff and students who may be assigned to assist with arrangement and description of manuscript and archival collections; assigns tasks and monitors pace and direction of work by support staff; maintains schedules and deadlines; evaluates staff performance. Submits regular reports on manuscript and archival processing; supports and participates in reference and public service. Participates in unit-wide planning and committee activities, and is active professionally.

Requirements are: M.L.S. from an ALA-accredited library school or Graduate degree in history or related discipline and at least two years experience arranging and describing archival collections in a historical or academic repository (or the equivalent combination of education and experience); familiarity with DACS, APPM, EAD, MARC, LCSH, AACR2, and other LC cataloging standards; familiarity with automated library information management systems, such as Endeavor/Voyager and online union catalogs such as RLIN or OCLC; knowledge of basic preservation and conservation standards for archival and manuscript collections; a demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; excellent organizational skills, accuracy, and attention to detail; ability to work independently and collaboratively in a production-oriented, team environment; ability to work quickly, efficiently, and meet project goals and deadlines.

One of the world's leading research universities, Columbia provides outstanding opportunities to work and grow in a unique intellectual community. Set in the Morningside Heights academic village, Columbia also presents the unmatched dynamism, diversity and cultural richness of New York City. The University Libraries, grounded in collections of remarkable depth and breadth, are also building extensive electronic resources and services. The Libraries at Columbia are committed to collegiality, professionalism, innovation and leadership.

The RBML holds over 600,000 rare books in some 30 book collections and almost 28 million manuscripts filed in nearly 3000 separate manuscript collections. It is particularly strong in English and American literature and history, classical authors, children's literature, education, mathematics and astronomy, economics and banking, philanthropy, social welfare and social work, photography, the history of printing, New York City politics, librarianship, theater history, and the performing arts. The RBML also includes the University Archives, with its large holdings on Columbia University history, and the Oral History Research Office, with its rich corpus of primary source interviews and transcripts.

The salary for this PCI position is dependent on experience. We offer excellent benefits including tuition exemption for self and family and assistance with University housing. We offer excellent benefits including 100% Columbia tuition exemption for self and family and assistance with University housing. Columbia will also pay 50% tuition for your dependent child who is a candidate for an undergraduate degree at another accredited college or university.

For immediate consideration please e-mail your resume and the name/contact information for 3 references to: libjobs2@columbia.edu or send it to:
Human Resources, Columbia University
Box 18, Butler Library
MC 1104
535 West 114th Street
New York, NY 10027.

Please reference Search # UL70107009 and include your e-mail address.

Applications will be accepted immediately and until the position is filled; however, applications submitted before July 18, 2007 will receive priority consideration.

Columbia University is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply

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