Archivist

Position Type: Professional

Library Type: Multiple

Description

Nature of Work

The archivist will plan, organize, maintain and preserve specified print and non-print archival collections. Appraises and/or edits archival records and historically valuable materials held by the Library. Assists researches in locating materials within the collections. Develops policies and procedures and directly manages the acquisition, disposition and safekeeping of archival materials.

Supervision Received

Under indirect supervision, performs independently, with initiative and judgment. Work is reviewed through conferences, review of files and observations of results achieved.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Develops the Library's archival collections and participates in the establishment and implementation of policies, procedures and standards for the Library's Regional History Center and Archives.
  • Develops and implements procedures for the acquisition, processing and preservation of archival materials.
  • Prepares descriptions and reference aids for use of archives, such as finding aids, lists, indexes, guides bibliographies, abstracts and microfilmed copies; cross indexes materials as required.
  • Advises and assists researchers in the locating and using archival materials.
  • Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements of Work

  • Master's degree in archival management, library science or history. If the degree is in one of the latter two (2) fields, a graduate-level course concentration in archival management is required. Archival work experience is mandatory.
  • Ability to assess objectives and operational requirements and to develop and implement suitable operational policies and/or procedures.
  • Knowledge of archival concepts, methodology and techniques.
  • Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
  • Knowledge of the historical contexts governing archival operations.
  • Ability to make evaluative judgments, develop and maintain indices, bibliographies and other reference guides and materials.
  • Skill in the use of personal computers and basic software applications in the areas of archival management, library science and general office work.
  • Ability to create, compose and edit written materials.
  • Ability to interpret client informational needs and to determine appropriate information retrieval solutions.
  • Ability to communicate professional information to non-professional personnel.