Special Collections & Archives Assistant

In addition to the job description, we ask that you please include the following information in the posting:
A complete application consists of a brief cover letter, resume, and contact points for three references.

To help with recruitment efforts, we ask that this summary of the Library be included in posts:
Princeton Theological Seminary’s Wright Library is among the world’s most comprehensive theological research libraries serving both the Seminary and the global community. The Library strengthens teaching, inspires learning, broadens access, fosters research, embraces change, and advances and preserves knowledge, in support of the Seminary’s mission. Shaped by two centuries of development, the Library embraces its role at the intersection of the theological record and the community of scholars; continues Princeton Seminary’s commitment to build collections of depth; and promotes an environment of broad access to the theological heritage. With over 8 million print and electronic books in its general collections, a digital library (Theological Commons) of more than 160,000 resources, a robust Special Collections and Archives department, and an inspiringly beautiful building, Wright Library is a heavily utilized resource.

Title: Special Collections & Archives Assistant

Reports To: Head of Special Collections & Archives

Work Hours: 19 hours per week (part-time, non-exempt)

 

JOB PURPOSE:

Supports the work of Special Collections & Archives in Wright Library by carrying out activities of the department pertaining to public services and researcher needs, during the department’s open research hours, Tuesday through Thursday each week.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
% of time
Researcher Support
60%
·        Responding to researcher queries and requests

·        Setting up research visits, appointments, and coordinating item requests

·        Research for basic-level research inquiries

·        Assist researchers in the Reading Room

Administrative Support
30%
·        Greeting visitors and explaining rules of archival research visits

·        Use the Aeon research request system to route requests and appointments in system’s database

Collections Organization
10%
·        Pulling requested material for researcher visits & shelving material after usage

·        Creating lists of items to be pulled for researcher use

Total 100%

OTHER FUNCTIONS:

Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:

·        Bachelor’s degree

·        Attention to detail

·        Interest in library and archives work

·        Experience working within library, archives, or museum setting

·        Public service or customer service experience

·        Clear communication skills

·        Ability to multitask

·        Comfortable with working on solo projects

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

·        Experience with rare books, archives, and/or cultural artifacts

·        Training in Aeon or other collections management software

 

PHYSICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:

·        Moderate lifting up to 50 pounds as frequently as needed to move objects, including books, boxes, and artifacts. Dexterity to write and manipulate computer keyboard and mouse. Body mobility to stoop, kneel, bend and reach. Ability to climb step-stools and step-ladders. Ability to push book carts and book trucks, some fully-loaded. Occasional exposure to dust, dirt, and mold.

Pay Rate: $20/hr