Special Collections Archivist

LIVE OAK PUBLIC LIBRARIES•Savannah, GA

3d•$49,000 - $61,000

About The Position

The Special Collections Archivist is responsible for profession, special collections work providing customer service to researchers of local history, genealogy and African American History. The position is responsible for the organization, care and access to collections and developing programs and providing reference services that promote the specialized collections of the Carnegie Library Heritage Center and the Kay Kole Genealogy Room. This position will involve establishing collection profiles and selection guidelines to build the resource collection, evaluating existing collection strengths, and fostering effective relationships with vendors, organizations, communities, individuals, and colleagues to develop collections. The Special Collections Archivist reports to the Special Collections Library Manager. Success in this role will require excellent relationship-building skills to ensure that the collections align with institutional priorities and that programmatic offerings impact the Savannah communities served through these collections. The incumbent will select materials for acquisition in all appropriate formats through donation or purchase in alignment with the priorities of the Live Oak Public Library. Under the direction of the Special Collections Manager, the Special Collections Archivist, will attend to the big-picture goal of building the collection and the day-to-day administrative details necessary to realize acquisitions successfully. The incumbent will establish long-term relationships with donors to support the library’s financial capacity to acquire and care for its collections. The archivist works as a team member within the Carnegie Library Heritage Center with responsibility for training and working with volunteers. The position collaborates with staff throughout the Library system. The Archivist provides direct customer service and reference and instruction support for individuals and groups. The position provides excellent customer service, demonstrating the ability to communicate effectively with people regardless of age, race, sexual orientation, ability level or background.

Requirements

Master’s degree in library science, Archival Studies, Public History, or a related field.
Experience working with archival or special collections.
Knowledge of archival standards and best practices.
Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
Demonstrated knowledge of CONTENTdm or comparable platform.
Demonstrated proficiency with technical and descriptive standards.
Demonstrated proficiency in the tools and systems related to digital collections creation and management.
Knowledge of current archival practices and standards regarding digital asset management, workflow and the development and maintenance of digital collections.
Proficiency with and troubleshooting skills related to archival equipment such as scanners, microfilm readers, cameras, recording equipment, etc.
Demonstrated proficiency with image editing software, like Adobe Photoshop.
Experience with digital preservation tools comparable to Preservica, Bitcurator or Archive-It
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail are necessary.
Ability to undertake and efficiently complete long-term projects and organizational initiatives.
Excellent verbal and written communication, organization, and interpersonal skills with the ability to translate technical terms to a layperson
Must use independent judgment within procedural boundaries and possess good problem-solving skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a team member.
Must possess strong computer skills with the ability to use a variety of electronic and digital devices and e-resources; possess a keen interest in using and learning new technologies.
Ability to function under flexible and changing conditions.
Possess a commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
Knowledge of archival theory and best practices as they relate to the processing, arrangement, and description of collections.
Knowledge of the library's organization, operation, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge of library resource materials and reference sources.
Knowledge of metadata standards for creation, description, and online display of digitized materials.
Skilled in use of advanced research methods.
Skilled in proper handling and basic preservation concepts for primary source materials, both analog and digital.
Skilled in identifying unique items within special collections, ensuring preservation and promotion.
Ability to collaborate with community organizations to develop and provide programs, tours, and events to promote scholarly study and broader general appreciation of special collections.
Ability to connect with local collectors, national and international rare book dealers, binderies and auction houses for acquisition or digitization purposes.
Ability to use computer databases to include computerized catalog and circulation systems.
Ability to accurately research, record, and preserve current and past events.
Ability to interview and gather data.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with arts-related or culturally significant collections.
Valid driver’s license and insurability required.
Must have reliable transportation to be able to travel between library locations.

Responsibilities

Archival Processing and Description Arrange, describe, and process archival and manuscript collections in accordance with professional standards and best practices.
Create and edit finding aids and collection documentation to support discovery and access.
Access, Research, and Reference Support Support researcher access to archival materials and assist with reference inquiries related to collections.
Promote responsible handling and use of archival materials.
Collections Management and Preservation Contribute to collection maintenance, preservation workflows, and environmental best practices.
Identify preservation needs and collaborate with colleagues on long-term stewardship strategies.
Collaboration and Project Work Work closely with librarians, and staff across LOPL to support project goals, workflows, and shared priorities.
Participate in meetings and contribute to documentation and reporting related to archival projects.
Professional Practice and Compliance Apply ethical, inclusive, and culturally responsible archival practices.
Adhere to LOPL policies, procedures, and professional standards.