SALARY: $4,679.00 monthly minimum; commensurate with experience

DESCRIPTION: This position exists to advance the management, development, and access to rare print materials related to Minnesota history and culture. The incumbent plays a vital role in developing, documenting, interpreting, and growing access/use of MNHS’s publications collections: Minnesota-related maps, rare books and rare materials, and print culture. In order to identify areas for growth in the collections and develop and implement a robust strategy for access and impact, the inaugural Patrick Coleman Curator of Maps, Rare Books, and Print Culture collaborates with MNHS leadership, the director of Collections, peer curators and collections management colleagues, colleagues across the organization, and with an engaged community of external stakeholders. The goal of curatorial efforts is to embed collections in the telling of history and stories across the organization; and to further the strategic priorities and the mission of the organization related to transforming access, expanding authority and expertise, and creating a sustainable future for the use, growth, and stewardship of collections materials.

Working independently as well as part of a team, the Senior Curator is responsible for collection development, acquisitions, and engaging with collections holders, creators, and their communities. They work with colleagues to steward and provide access to MNHS collections through research, programming, and exhibits; communicate with donors about ongoing collection needs and priorities; and offer intellectual guidance to Library catalogers, reference staff, and other colleagues about new and existing collections materials. The successful candidate should have extensive knowledge of rare books and/or print culture, a demonstrated interest in Minnesota history, culture, and literary life; and a commitment to and experience with fostering and maintaining equitable and respectful partnerships within a large organization with a diverse public.

SUMMARY OF WORK: 1) Lead the collaborative work to broaden MNHS collection of maps, rare books and other rare materials, and print culture; 2) Work with colleagues across MNHS to promote access to and engagement with MNHS collections; 3) Contribute to MNHS’s commitment to sharing Minnesota history through community engagement and partnerships; 4) Contribute to organizational strategic priorities and initiatives through active participation in leadership, committee, and other opportunities; and 5) Provide overall direction for hiring, training, supervision, and motivation for assigned staff, interns, and volunteers, and ensure overall compliance with MNHS policies and procedures.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree.
Seven years experience in a museum or library field or equivalent.
Three years of curatorial or collection development experience.
Demonstrated interest in and knowledge of Minnesota history and culture.
Demonstrated knowledge of rare books and/or print culture; as well as intellectual property and copyright law and practices.
Experience developing, handling, documenting, and making accessible archival and special collections.
Ability to supervise, mentor, and performance manage staff, interns, and volunteers.
Commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment that embraces diverse viewpoints and experiences.
Willingness to use a ladder to reach high places and storage.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to work in an environment where the air quality is sometimes lowered because of air particles.
Ability, flexibility, and willingness to occasionally work a varied schedule, including evenings and weekends.
Ability and willingness to travel.
Valid driver’s license.

TO APPLY & VIEW FULL DESCRIPTION: Interested applicants must apply online at the Minnesota Historical Society’s career center at www. mnhs.org/jobs and include a resume and cover letter by the application deadline date.