Special Collections Assistant V

This position works as a part of a team to support all Collection Development Department activities in collection development, collection management, and the provision of specialized assistance in the use of collections.

Responsibilities

The scope of work includes:
searching, identification and management of bibliographic acquisitions and other library and vendor records.

participation in workflows of gift processing and pre-order processing.

gathering and organizing data, lists and decisions to support ReCAP transfer, deduping and collection assessment

projects and replacement decision-making for brittle, damaged and missing books;

general operational support for bibliographers, curators, and subject selectors.

This individual works closely with and provides specialized support to the Near Eastern Studies Librarian, including managing acquisitions and collection maintenance for the Near Eastern periodicals and the Near Eastern Graduate Study Room, and providing specialized assistance for users of those collections; processes and catalogs ephemeral material (pamphlets, fliers, bulletins, posters, and other non-traditional formats). Processing may involve physical handling and/or creating or editing metadata for individual digitized items and collections.

The assistant regularly addresses and independently resolves complex problems and is expected to assist the Near Eastern Studies Librarian in establishing goals, policies and procedures. In addition, the assistant is responsible for hiring, training and supervising student assistants.

Occasionally provides general collection development support for the work of professional staff in Reference and Instructional Services Department, and specialized assistance as needed to other library departments requiring subject knowledge and language skills in Near Eastern studies.

Qualifications

Required qualifications:
Fluent reading knowledge and comprehension of Persian, Arabic, and Turkish.

Minimum two years library or related experience (e.g., collections, museums, archives, etc.).

Ability to provide specialized assistance to faculty and students.

Experience working with ephemera material, particularly in processing, metadata creation, and digitization.

Familiarity with digital project workflows

Ability to communicate effectively in English with all Library staff and patrons in written and oral form. To be organized and detail-oriented, work effectively in a team-based environment, and anticipate workflow changes and adjust priorities accordingly.

Proficiency with searching OCLC (WorldCat, First Search) and other major bibliographic databases. Familiarity with ILS functions (Acquisitions and Cataloging modules), discovery systems, and authority file functions.

Proficiency in use and analysis of data from spreadsheet software like Excel and word-processing software such as

Microsoft Word. Ability to create Excel files per instructions from the supervisors. Ability to use standard email applications.

Ability to move boxes of books (up to 30 pounds) from book trucks to shelves (and the reverse). This position requires frequent bending and reaching.

Preferred qualifications

Familiarity with LibGuides and Campus Guides platform.

General internet navigational skills.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. EEO IS THE LAW.

Standard Weekly Hours

36.25

Eligible for Overtime

Yes

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

No

Physical Capacity Exam Required

No

Union Code

LIB-Amer Fed State County Mun Emps

Valid Driver’s License Required

No

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