The New York Public Library is looking for a cataloger for the dance videos held by the Jerome Robbins Dance Division, focusing on our recently acquired Martha Graham collection.
Librarian II
Overview
Preservation and Collections Processing (PCP) is the department responsible for the acquisition, processing, cataloging, preservation, and physical management of the special collections holdings of NYPL’s three research libraries, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, the Library for the Performing Arts, and the Schomburg Center.
The Collections Processing unit of PCP makes these resources discoverable via catalog records and collection guides and undertakes the physical preparation necessary to make these acquisitions available to the public. Special collections materials include archives, rare books, manuscripts, photographs, designs, maps, and non-commercial sound and moving image recordings.
Principal Responsibilities
Reporting to the Manager of Special Collections Cataloging
- Performs original cataloging of video recordings on cassette and in digital form in OCLC Connexion.
- Creates inventory records in FileMaker Pro database.
- Performs physical preparation of media including barcoding, labeling, and preservation rehousing.
- Creates MARC records to full-level cataloging standards.
- Adheres to RDA guidelines and the Library of Congress standards and other national cataloging guidelines for archival audio-visual cataloging, such as AACR2, AMIM, ARSC, DACS, and ISBD.
- Searches for and applies name, subject, and uniform title authority access points and faceted form and genre, geographical and chronological headings in bibliographic records.
- Records cataloging statistics as required.
- Plans and executes this cataloging assignment, and contributes to the development of procedures, manuals, and reports.
- Performs related duties as required.
Required Education & Experience
ALA accredited Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science (MLS, MLIS) and relevant professional work experience required to successfully perform the principal responsibilities.
Minimum Qualifications
- Knowledge of RDA, AACR2, the Library of Congress Subject and Name Authority headings.
- Familiarity with historical and emerging formats in audio-visual recording technologies.
- Familiarity with emerging trends and issues in audio-visual cataloging.
- Demonstrated knowledge of an online ILS cataloging module such as Sierra.
- Familiarity with and interest in the performing arts, specifically dance or dance history.
- Ability to apply critical judgment skills in cataloging responsibilities.
- Flexibility in adapting to changeable cataloging needs.
- Proficient experience using Microsoft Office software.
- Ability to work under pressure, problem solve, and prioritize cataloging tasks.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in working tactfully with other library staff in a team setting.
- Strong interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively to meet goals and deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of modern dance, specifically the work of dancer and choreographer Martha Graham and the Martha Graham Dance Company.
- Experience cataloging moving image materials in MARC, Dublin Core, PBCore, or other content designation schema.
- Experience using the Library of Congress Name Authority file and the ability to create name authority records.
- Experience with the Sierra ILS cataloging module.
- Knowledge and awareness of emerging trends in cataloging and metadata.
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
Work Environment
- Office environment: open space with assigned computer workstations; materials are physically handled and transferred from shelves to book carts; also work from home (i.e. wifi).
Physical Duties
- Ability to move book trucks and handle materials that may weigh up to 30 lbs.
- May require travel within NYC
