Freelance Assessment Librarian
The Hispanic Society Museum & Library (HSM&L) is seeking a freelance librarian to help assess the library collections and operations of the HSM&L. Under the supervision and guidance of the Head of Modern Library, the consultant will work on meeting the assessment objectives, including determining collection size and subject coverage, and will provide a set of recommendations for further action.
The goal is to assess the state of Modern Library holdings and operations such as acquisitions, cataloging, OPAC, card catalogs, Reading Room, etc. The assessment is already underway. The library staff has already completed the physical inventory for the Modern Library. The freelance librarian will assist with the remaining stages of the assessment, including, but not limited to, a full inventory of periodicals. The overall objectives are listed below:
Assessment Objectives
• Determine collection size and subject coverage
• Define collection strengths and weaknesses—How effectively does the collection support our
institutional mission?
• Determine space occupied and growth rate
• Define physical locations
• Define existing collection access/discovery tools and which tools are needed
• Provide summary and recommendations
o Summary of findings
o Recommendation on collection development
o Recommendation on weeding/deaccessioning
o Recommendation on tools/software/equipment/staffing
Experience & Skills Required
• Master of Library Science from ALA-accredited institution
• Has participated in at least one library assessment
• Familiar with all aspects of professional librarianship
• Can see the big picture as well as get down to brass tacks
• Reading knowledge of Spanish
Preferred Experience
• Experience conducting library assessments, including writing up findings and recommendations
• Familiar with Hispanic art and literature
Compensation
• $35-45 per hour
Application Instructions
Send resume with a brief statement about your experience conducting library assessments. Email materials to jobs@hispanicsociety.org. Please write “Freelance Librarian” in the subject line of email.
About the Hispanic Society Museum & Library
The Hispanic Society Museum & Library was founded in New York City in 1904 by Archer M. Huntington with the purpose of advancing the study and appreciation of the art, literature, and culture of Spain, Portugal, Latin America, and the Philippines. Today, the museum and library collections from antiquity through the early 20th century are widely recognized as the most comprehensive in scope and quality outside of Spain. Museum highlights include numerous masterworks by El Greco, Velázquez, Goya, and Sorolla; sculpture by Pedro de Mena and Luisa Roldán;
Latin American paintings by Vázquez, López de Arteaga, Rodríguez Juárez, Arrieta and Campeche; as well as masterpieces in all areas of the decorative arts. Recent additions include works by Jose Clement Orozco and Pablo Picasso.
EEO Statement
The HSM&L is an equal opportunity employer. The HSM&L does not discriminate because of age, sex, religion, race, color, creed, national origin, alienage or citizenship, disability, marital status, partnership status, veteran status, gender (including gender identity), sexual orientation, or any other factor prohibited by law. The Museum hires and promotes individuals solely on the basis of their qualifications for the job to be filled. The Museum encourages all qualified candidates to apply for vacant positions at all levels. This description shall not be construed as a contract of any sort for a specific period of employment.
