Robert K. Merton, Project Archivist - Rare Book and Manuscript Library/ The Columbia University Rare Book and Manuscript Library
The Columbia University Rare Book and Manuscript Library is searching for an archivist to process the papers of Robert K. Merton (1910–2003), the esteemed Columbia sociologist who developed such concepts as “self-fulfilling prophecy,” “role model,” and the “focused interview,” and who was a founder of the sociology of science. This position will be funded for a period of 12 months from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension. Reporting to the Curator of Manuscripts and University Archivist, the Project Archivist will be responsible for the oversight of arrangement and description and appropriate archival housing; identification and referral of items as necessary for conservation treatment; preparation and editing of a finding aid and other descriptive access tools; participation in implementation of EAD for encoded finding aids. The project archivist coordinates the activities of work-study students that are assigned to assist with arrangement and description of manuscript and archival collections; assigns tasks and monitors pace and direction of work; maintains schedule and meets deadlines; submits regular reports on manuscript and archival processing; supports and participates in reference and public service.
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. Columbia University is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.
Requirements:
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M.L.S. from an ALA-accredited library school or Graduate degree in history or related discipline and one to 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; familiarity with the application of Greene and Meissner processing techniques; 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. Experience arranging large, complex collections preferred. Supervisory experience preferred.
Applications will be accepted immediately and until the position is filled; however, applications submitted before May 9, 2008 will receive priority consideration. For immediate consideration please e-mail your resume and the name/contact information for 3 references to:
Human Resources, Columbia University, Box 18, Butler Library, MC 1104, 535 West 114th Street, New York, NY 10027
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