Librarian - Cataloging

Description

The Cataloging Librarian will play a central role in organizing, managing, and maintaining the library’s collection to ensure accessibility and compliance with professional library standards. Responsibilities include conducting a complete inventory of the collection, drafting and implementing a standard operating procedure for acquisitions and cataloging, recommending materials for retention or de-accessioning, and performing full cataloging and physical processing of all library materials. This role requires a strong understanding of cataloging systems, metadata standards, and best practices in library management. The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise in bibliographic description, authority control, and library classification systems, and must be capable of lifting up to 50 pounds and using ladders as part of physical processing duties.

Responsibilities

• Conduct a complete inventory of the library collection.
• Draft and implement a standard operating procedure (SOP) for acquisitions and cataloging.
• Make recommendations for the retention and de-accessioning of library materials.
• Fully catalog and physically process all library materials in accordance with professional standards.
• Apply professional metadata standards to ensure accuracy and discoverability of resources.
• Ensure compliance with library principles, theories, and best practices to manage diverse information resources.
• Collaborate with staff and stakeholders to improve access to the collection.
• Maintain detailed records of cataloging, acquisitions, and de-accessioning activities.
• Lift boxes and materials up to 50 pounds and use ladders for shelving and inventory tasks.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Library/Information Science or a related field from an ALA-accredited institution.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience with similar responsibilities in a research or federal library.
• Professional and current knowledge of library principles, philosophies, theories, systems, methods, and practices.
• Experience with Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) and/or Library of Congress Classification (LCC).
• Knowledge of metadata standards such as AACR2 or RDA, USMARC format, LCNAF, LCSH, and other standardized thesauri.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and writing library guidelines, procedures, or policies.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and use ladders.
• Ability to obtain a Public Trust clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in federal library environments.
• Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS) and library services platforms (LSP) such as Ex Libris Alma or similar.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to move from place to place within the location.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and use ladders.
• Ability to sit for long periods of time and to maintain focus on projects such as computer screens or detailed paperwork.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.