Houghton Library, the primary repository for Harvard’s rare books and manuscripts, seeks an innovative, collaborative, and motivated Rare Book Cataloger. Under the direction of the Head of Rare Book Section, the incumbent will be responsible for providing original and complex copy cataloging and authority work for all printed materials following prescribed national standards. The incumbent will assist the Head of Rare Book Section and participate in planning various projects to support the Houghton Library’s efforts to catalog, preserve, and provide access to rare books, graphics, and other printed holdings in all formats and across Houghton’s curatorial areas. Houghton Library’s collections range across the history of civilization with particular strengths in European and American history and literature.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsible for original and complex copy cataloging of rare books, serials, and other printed materials from 15th to 21st centuries in multiple languages and formats according to national standards.

Collaborates in the development, evaluation, and implementation of cataloging policies, standards, goals, procedures, and workflows.

Collaborates in the creation and maintenance of policy and standard documentation.

Participates in the creation, enhancement, and maintenance of authority metadata, both for local use and to contribute to the Name Authority Cooperative Program (NACO).

Participates in creating and implementing new workflows and projects.

Trains and reviews the work of other catalogers.

May supervise students, term and temporary employees.

Maintains weekly shifts at the reading room desk.

Maintains an active presence in local and national professional organizations.

Represents Houghton within the Harvard cataloging and library community, both informally through communication and collaboration, and formally by serving on committees and working groups.

Other duties as assigned.


Basic Qualifications --------

M.L.S. from an ALA-accredited academic program required.

Minimum of three years of extensive experience cataloging rare books and printed materials, including graphics, in a research library setting.

Demonstrated knowledge of cataloging standards and principles, including but not limited to: RDA, DCRM, MARC21, LCSH, RBMS and AAT thesauri, Library of Congress/PCC rules and authority control practices.

Demonstrated knowledge of integrated library systems and bibliographic utilities (OCLC Connexion). Experience with Alma and Aeon preferred.

Demonstrated knowledge of descriptive bibliography, book and printing history.

Reading knowledge of one or more Western European languages required (reading knowledge of Russian preferred).

Evidence of active participation, involvement, and leadership in local, state, regional, national, or international professional or scholarly associations.


Additional Qualifications ---------------

Demonstrated knowledge of current trends and issues in academic libraries, higher education, and relevant subject disciplines.

Knowledge of BIBFRAME and the principles of linked data.

Ability to identify basic preservation and conservation issues related to printed materials.

Understanding of current developments within the profession and demonstrated commitment to engage in ongoing professional development and service to the profession.

Experience implementing new technologies and other techniques to improve work processes.

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work creatively, collaboratively, and effectively.

Capacity to thrive in a changing working environment.


****Additional Information ---- Review of applications will begin immediately.