Specialist (Dance Audio and Moving Image Cataloger)

Overview

The New York Public Library (NYPL) has been one of the world’s greatest public research libraries for more than 130 years. The research centers offer unparalleled opportunities to engage with in-depth and unique collections, inspirational reading rooms, exhibitions, programs, and a range of research services. The Collections and Research Services division encompasses several departments focused on managing the ongoing development and processing of our exceptional research collections, advancing unified discovery and expanded access, both in-person and online, and ensuring stewardship of the collections at every stage of the collections lifecycle.

Within Special Collections Processing, the Rare Materials Cataloging Department (RMC) ensures long-term stewardship and access to the Library’s most distinctive collections through bibliographical description and stewardship of rare and unique materials for inclusion in the Library’s catalogs.

Reporting to the Manager for Audio and Moving Image Description, the Specialist II is primarily responsible for the original and complex copy cataloging of materials in all audio and moving image formats, including born digital, for special collections held by the Jerome Robbins Dance Division at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts.

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Manager of Audio and Moving Image Description, the Specialist II will:

• Perform original and complex copy cataloging of audio and moving image materials, creating MARC21 records to full level cataloging standards
• Adhere to RDA guidelines and the Library of Congress standards and other national cataloging guidelines for audiovisual cataloging, such as OLAC, ARSC, DACS, and ISBD
• Search for and apply name, subject, and uniform title authority headings and form and genre terms in bibliographic records
• Identify contributors, choreographic works, and musical works needing authorized access points created in the Library of Congress Name Authority File (LCNAF)
• Conduct research on dance and performance history, utilizing NYPL collections and outside reputable resources to ensure accuracy in catalog record information
• Utilize library guidelines and audio and moving image format knowledge to make decisions regarding duplicates and multi-volume or related recordings
• Provide input on internal procedural documentation and best practices
• Perform other related duties as necessary

Required Education, Experience & Skills

Required Education and Certifications

• ALA-accredited Master’s degree in library, archival, or information studies, or Master's degree in audio and/or moving image preservation, liberal arts or humanities and professional experience working for libraries or archives
• Educational background or strongly demonstrated subject area interest in dance or performing arts history

Required Experience

• Experience with either bibliographic cataloging or archival description in previous positions or internships

Required Skills

• Knowledge of metadata content and value standards, especially RDA and Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) and Name Authority File (LCNAF)
• Identification of audio and moving image formats, generation, and preliminary condition/preservation issues
• Proficiency with productivity software, especially spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets
• Ability to work independently, work within a defined time frame, problem solve, and prioritize cataloging tasks
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in working tactfully with other library staff in a team setting

Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities

• None

More...

Core Values

All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:

• Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
• Be Resourceful in solving problems
• Be Curious in all aspects of your work
• Be Welcoming and Inclusive

Work Environment

• Office environment; open space with assigned computer workstations; materials are physically handled and transferred from shelves to book carts.
• Based onsite at the Library Services Center in Long Island City, Queens, but also works at the Library for the Performing Arts in Manhattan as necessary

Physical Duties

• Moving book trucks and materials that may weigh up to 35 lbs.
• May require travel within NYC

Pre-Placement Physical Required?

• No

Union

• Local 1930

FLSA Status

• Non-Exempt

Schedule

• 35 hours per week
• On-site, Monday-Friday from 9:00am-5:00pm

This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.

The New York Public Library

Salary Statement

At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such, including, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies.

Union Salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).

About The New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is a free provider of education and information for the people of New York and beyond. With 92 locations—including research and branch libraries—throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island, the Library offers free materials, computer access, classes, exhibitions, programming and more to everyone from toddlers to scholars, and has seen record numbers of attendance and circulation in recent years. The New York Public Library serves more than 18 million patrons who come through its doors annually and millions more around the globe who use its resources at www.nypl.org.