Specialist II (Dance Audio and Moving Image Cataloger) 

(June 19, 2026)

Position Title - Specialist II (Dance Audio and Moving Image Cataloger)

Supervisor Title (All entry and mid-level position supervisors should be qualified, professional archivists.)- Manager, Audio and Moving Image Description

Position Type - Full-time, permanent

Benefits - Yes

Salary Range - $66,000 - $75,000

Overview

The New York Public Library (NYPL) has been one of the world’s greatest public research libraries for more than 130 years. The research centers offer unparalleled opportunities to engage with in-depth and unique collections, inspirational reading rooms, exhibitions, programs, and a range of research services. The Collections and Research Services division encompasses several departments focused on managing the ongoing development and processing of our exceptional research collections, advancing unified discovery and expanded access, both in-person and online, and ensuring stewardship of the collections at every stage of the collections lifecycle.

Within Special Collections Processing, the Rare Materials Cataloging Department (RMC) ensures long-term stewardship and access to the Library’s most distinctive collections through bibliographical description and stewardship of rare and unique materials for inclusion in the Library’s catalogs.

Reporting to the Manager for Audio and Moving Image Description, the Specialist II is primarily responsible for the original and complex copy cataloging of materials in all audio and moving image formats, including born digital, for special collections held by the Jerome Robbins Dance Division at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts.

Responsibilities:

Reporting to the Manager of Audio and Moving Image Description, the Specialist II will:

Perform original and complex copy cataloging of audio and moving image materials, creating MARC21 records to full level cataloging standards

Adhere to RDA guidelines and the Library of Congress standards and other national cataloging guidelines for audiovisual cataloging, such as OLAC, ARSC, DACS, and ISBD

Search for and apply name, subject, and uniform title authority headings and form and genre terms in bibliographic records

Identify contributors, choreographic works, and musical works needing authorized access points created in the Library of Congress Name Authority File (LCNAF)

Conduct research on dance and performance history, utilizing NYPL collections and outside reputable resources to ensure accuracy in catalog record information

Utilize library guidelines and audio and moving image format knowledge to make decisions regarding duplicates and multi-volume or related recordings

Provide input on internal procedural documentation and best practices

Perform other related duties as necessary

Required Education, Experience & Skills

Required Education and Certifications

ALA-accredited Master’s degree in library, archival, or information studies, or Master's degree in audio and/or moving image preservation, liberal arts or humanities and professional experience working for libraries or archives

Educational background or strongly demonstrated subject area interest in dance or performing arts history

Required Experience

Experience with either bibliographic cataloging or archival description in previous positions or internships

Required Skills

Knowledge of metadata content and value standards, especially RDA and Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) and Name Authority File (LCNAF)

Identification of audio and moving image formats, generation, and preliminary condition/preservation issues

Proficiency with productivity software, especially spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets

Ability to work independently, work within a defined time frame, problem solve, and prioritize cataloging tasks

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in working tactfully with other library staff in a team setting

Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities

None

More...

Core Values

All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:

Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues

Be Resourceful in solving problems

Be Curious in all aspects of your work

Be Welcoming and Inclusive

Work Environment

Office environment; open space with assigned computer workstations; materials are physically handled and transferred from shelves to book carts.

Based onsite at the Library Services Center in Long Island City, Queens, but also works at the Library for the Performing Arts in Manhattan as necessary

Physical Duties

Moving book trucks and materials that may weigh up to 35 lbs.

May require travel within NYC

Pre-Placement Physical Required?

No

Union

Local 1930

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Schedule

35 hours per week

On-site, Monday-Friday from 9:00am-5:00pm

This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.

The New York Public Library Salary Statement

At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such, including, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies.

Union Salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).

https://nypl.pinpointhq.com/postings/7a22a0fd-0a57-43d8-86f8-285968acd951