Position Overview

Responsible for performing original and complex copy cataloging including bibliographic description, subject analysis, classification, and authority control for materials in all formats in accordance with established local and national policies, procedures, and standards. Advanced cataloging skills for serials, music, or rare book/manuscript materials will be required as needed.  Special language competencies and/or subject knowledge will be required as needed. 

Reports to

Technical Services Manager or delegate.

Supervises

As assigned, assists in supervision of staff.

Scope of Responsibility

1. Performs original and complex copy cataloging including bibliographic description, subject analysis, classification, and authority control for materials in all formats in accordance with established local and national policies, procedures, and standards.
2. Establishes, assigns, and verifies name, subject, form/genre, and uniform title entries according to national standards and local practices.  Updates headings and resolves problems in the local database when necessary.
3. Maintains a consistent output of cataloging, classification and authority control work according to departmental standards for experienced catalogers.
4. Performs catalog maintenance to ensure bibliographic integrity and resolves database problems whenever necessary.
5. Participates in retrospective conversion projects.
6. Participates in routine tasks and special projects involving the import, export, and modification of bibliographic, authority, and item records.
7. As required, creates item records and/or resolves item record problems when necessary.
8. As assigned, participates in the training of staff.
9. As assigned, advises and assists staff resolving copy cataloging and item maintenance problems.
10. As assigned, performs the review and revision of copy-cataloging records produced by staff.
11. Maintains current knowledge of existing and emerging cataloging standards, policies, and practices, including faceted bibliographic access.
12. Assists in evaluating, implementing, and suggesting changes in policies and procedures concerning descriptive and subject cataloging.
13. Processes all materials according to defined Library priorities.
14. For a Serials Cataloger:  Catalogs and classifies continuing resources in all formats according to CONSER standards. When appropriate, updates records for title changes and performs duplicate resolution.  Handles highly complex problems regarding serials cataloged using older standards, bringing records up-to-date to facilitate user access.  Creates and updates serial subscription records as required.   Resolves holdings inaccuracies.
15. Performs other related and comparable duties as assigned. 

Competencies

• Proficiency with MSWord, Publisher, Power Point, and Excel.
• Ability to execute library policy.
• Ability to plan and supervise the work of others.
• Demonstrates initiative and independent decision making skills.
• Communicates effectively and presents ideas clearly.
• Ability to think creatively and innovatively.
• Identifies, plans and prioritizes job responsibilities and tasks; determines and implements project timelines.
• Demonstrates flexibility and the ability to adapt to change.
• Collaborates with internal and external partners.
• Ability to work well with staff and public.
• Superior knowledge of bibliographical tools and resources.

Qualifications

Education – A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university and a master’s degree in library science from an ALA accredited library school.  Relevant subject knowledge and/or specialized training will be required. In exceptional circumstances specialized education, training and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the educational requirements.

Experience – Two years of recent professional library experience creating MARC21 bibliographic and authority records in all formats.  Comprehensive knowledge of and recent hands on experience with current and emerging national standards including those concerning descriptive cataloging, subject analysis, classification, and authority control.  Experience using modern library catalogs and other bibliographic tools, including major current online and print cataloging resources and utilities.

Requirements – Demonstrated proficiency in the current versions of the following cataloging tools and standards is required:

OCLC Connexion client software

AACR2r

LC Subject Headings

Library of Congress Classification

Library of Congress Rule Interpretations:

General Rules for Description

Books, Pamphlets, and Printed Sheets.

PCC,  NACO, and SACO standards

Reading knowledge of one or more foreign languages and the ability to deal with unfamiliar foreign languages is required.  Multiple foreign language skills are highly desirable.

Proficiency with a PC and software at the level necessary to successfully complete the tasks of the job is required.

Additional relevant special subject knowledge and specialized cataloging experience will be required as needed to meet the needs of the department:

For a Serials Cataloger:  One year of recent professional library experience cataloging serials.  Working knowledge of the CONSER tools including the Cataloging Manual, the Editing Guide, and the Standard Record Documentation (2010) is required.  Understanding of the Library of Congress Rule Interpretations as they apply to serial materials is required.  Detailed understanding of the MARC serials holdings record is highly desirable.

Requirements:

1. Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.
2. Residency - Must be a resident of the City of Boston upon the first day of hire.
3. CORI - Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information check with the City of Boston.

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA/P- 2

Hours per week: 35