Research Resources: Library and Archives Assistant

About the role

The Library and Archives Assistant supports the Library and Archives team in all aspects of collections development, cataloging, processing, circulation, reference, access, organization, and storage.

Responsibilities

• Assist staff with library and archives collection development
• Create original and copy cataloging in MARC for library materials, with particular attention to our ongoing work in reparative and equitable metadata
• Absorb and respond to onsite and remote reference and circulation requests from staff and external researchers, including paging and shelving
• Process library and archives materials for secure storage, including items requiring custom preservation housings and encapsulations
• Survey, arrange, and describe Whitney archival collections according to best practices
• Prepare DACS records for export to the archives’ online public access portal, ArchivesSpace
• Prepare select materials for our digital preservation pipeline via ArchiveSpace, Archivematica, and ResourceSpace

Requirements

• MLIS or related degree, with experience in art sources and services
• Specific knowledge, abilities and/or skills:
  • Experience with library cataloging (MARC, RDA, LCSH, LC classification)
  • Ability to work independently with attention to detail
  • Experience with an ILS
  • Proficiency in ArchivesSpace, or similar collection management systems
  • Proficiency in Microsoft 365, including Microsoft Excel
  • Strong working knowledge of DACS and EADD
  • Demonstrated familiarity with archival theory and practice, including applying processing strategies and records retention policies
  • Ability to lift cartons up to 30lbs is helpful

Qualifications

Compensation & Benefits: Hourly rate of $32.00. Medical, Dental, Vision, 403(B) elections. Generous PTO benefits. Commuter benefits - parking and mass transit. Admission to world-renowned museums across the city and nationally. Pet insurance and discounted membership for Citibike.

This position may be covered by UAW Local 2110

Benefits

• EEO Statement

The Whitney Museum of American Art is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Museum does not discriminate because of age, sex, religion, race, color, creed, national origin, alienage or citizenship, disability, marital status, pregnancy, partnership status, caregiver status, veteran status, gender (including gender identity), sexual orientation, genetic information, predisposition or carrier status, arrest or conviction record to the extent required by applicable law, credit history, domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking victim status, 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.