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Cataloging and Metadata Librarian
 

1. Assess PHS collection materials needing electronic catalog records. Prioritize and develop strategy for original and copy cataloging, record enhancement, and re-cataloging projects.
2. Perform original and complex copy cataloging for a variety of formats, including monographs, serials, manuscripts, audiovisual materials, and archival collections. Create and revise name authority (NACO) records.
3. Establish, implement, and document workflows for automated and manual catalog and database maintenance, including batch import of records, global editing, and record enhancement.
4. Oversee and train staff in copy cataloging. Supervise one full-time Archives Technician.
5. Manage relationships with catalog software vendors and oversee performance of and upgrades to the Koha integrated library system (Calvin) and Presto integrated databases (Sheppard) and assist with troubleshooting software issues.
6. Lead and advise staff on efforts to implement a reparative and inclusive approach to bibliographic, archival, and digital content description, including development of associated policies and maintenance of terminology crosswalk.
7. Participate in metadata crosswalking, cleanup, and migration projects for digital collections.
8. Maintain awareness of, and engagement with, national and international trends and developments in cataloging and metadata standards, including learning about and planning for linked data and reparative approaches to classification and description. Share information on these issues with staff.
9. Contribute to remote reference (10% of time).
10. Other duties as assigned by the supervisor or the Office of the General Assembly.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least three years of professional cataloging experience working with a variety of formats.
• Experience working with an integrated library system, OCLC Connexion or another national bibliographic utility, and related cataloging tools (i.e. Cataloger’s Desktop, RDA Toolkit, Classification Web).
• Significant knowledge of and ability to apply the following cataloging standards:Anglo-American Cataloging Rules (AACR2), Resource Description and Access (RDA), Describing Archives : A Content Standard (DACS), Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), Library of Congress Classification (LCC), and MARC21 formats for bibliographic and authority data.

• Experience with batch-loading records and performing global changes.
• Experience with a national cooperative cataloging program such as PCC (NACO).
• Knowledge of metadata standards for digital collections, such as MODS.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy with information as well as good communication skills (both written and verbal).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, remain flexible when needs and goals change, and work well in a small office setting.

 

EDUCATION:

Master’s degree in library or information science from an ALA-accredited institution.

 

SENSORY or PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to do extensive computer work, move 35 lb. boxes, and stoop and stretch to pull and move books.

 

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

 

• Experience with rare book cataloging and use of DCRM(B).
• Experience cataloging serials.
• At least two years of supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of linked open data standards, systems and formats (RDF, JSON-LD, SKOS, OWL, SPARQL, schema.org, Wikidata etc.)
• Experience remediating large sets of metadata using tools such as Open Refine.
• Experience providing written reference responses to patrons.
• Working knowledge of one or more non-English languages.

 

The Presbyterian Historical Society (PHS), organized in 1852 and located in Philadelphia, PA, is the oldest denominational archives in the United States and serves as the national archives for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and its predecessor denominations. PHS is part of the Office of the General Assembly, headquartered at the Presbyterian Center in Louisville, KY. Together with Presbyterian Investment and Loan, Presbyterian Mission Agency, Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, Presbyterian Women, and the Administrative Services Group, the national agencies of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) serve and work with mid-councils, congregations, and partner organizations to carry forth the mission of Jesus Christ in the World.

Basic Commitment: This position calls for a basic commitment to the mission of the Presbyterian Historical Society, the Office of the General Assembly, and the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as well as a commitment to continue to dismantle white supremacy, sexism and racism in the Office of the General Assembly and the PC(USA). The position fosters collaboration, innovation and openness with colleagues, constituents and the wider church.

Purpose of the Position:

Oversees and performs cataloging and metadata work at PHS and does original cataloging of complex and rare materials; manages and maintains catalog software and liaises with vendors; leads efforts to implement a reparative and inclusive approach to description; contributes to remote reference.

 

We believe a balanced life, with time for work, leisure, and spiritual nurture, makes us healthier and more productive colleagues at the Presbyterian Center.

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) offers a competitive benefits package for eligible employees including Medical, Dental, Pension Plan, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Flexible Spending accounts, 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan, Vacation Days, Sick Days, and Paid Holidays.

Presbyterian Church (USA) is committed to being not only an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the U.S. government,
but with the inclusion of gender identity and sexual orientation as well.
 

Candidates from Presbyterian communities in the global south and other historic Presbyterian Communities of Color,
preferably with theological training and fluency in languages other than English, are encouraged to apply.

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