Overview:

Under the direction of the Cataloging and Processing Manager, leads both special cataloging projects and retrospective cataloging projects at the Boston Public Library. Responsible for developing internal workflows and standards, developing and implementing project goals and objectives, reviewing work of staff assigned to projects, and maintaining project statistics as directed. Actively contributes original and complex copy cataloging for materials in all formats for the Library’s special and retrospective projects.

Reports to:

Cataloging and Processing Manager or delegate.

Supervises:

As assigned, professional and support staff.

Scope of Responsibility:

• Develops and implements standards for bibliographic levels of cataloging, processing specifications, and quality control mechanisms for special projects involving the cataloging materials in all formats.
• Performs original and complex copy cataloging for special projects, including bibliographic description, subject analysis, classification, and, as assigned, authority control for materials in all formats in accordance with established local and national policies, procedures, and standards.
• Participates in the development and implementation of standards and procedures for catalog data quality assurance, workflow automation, and batch data editing for cataloging projects.
• Coordinates with outside vendors and systems to integrate external tools, platforms, and cataloging and metadata into the Library’s cataloging workflows.
• Collaborates with managers of BPL’s research collections and BPL’s preservation and digitization functions to build and maintain workflows to enhance access to Library material both in onsite locations and offsite storage.
• Participates in the training of all levels of staff related to special and retrospective cataloging projects.
• With other cataloging peers, participates in routine tasks involving the import, export, and modification of bibliographic, authority, and item records.
• Participates in department-wide discussion, planning, and problem-solving to optimize the work of Cataloging and Processing staff.
• Maintains current knowledge of existing and emerging cataloging and metadata standards, schema, policies, and practices.
• Assists in evaluating, implementing, and suggesting changes in policies and procedures concerning descriptive and subject cataloging.
• Prepares statistical and other reports and analyses, as assigned.
• Performs other related and comparable duties as assigned.

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 – Four (4) years of experience working with original and copy cataloging. Experience applying cataloging standards and practices for bibliographic and authority data, including MARC21, AACR2, RDA, LCSH, and LCC required. Additional experience in other metadata schemas desired. Supervisory experience desired.

Competencies:

• Broad experience in library cataloging, including working with a variety of material types and formats described using MAR21 and other bibliographic and metadata schema.
• Ability to interpret and apply relevant standards such as Library of Congress subject headings, Library of Congress classification, AACR and RDA, and documentation such as OCLC’s Bibliographic Formats and Standards as warranted.
• Ability to analyze, streamline, document, and maintain workflows for the cataloging of materials.
• Ability to identify, evaluate, and integrate automated processes and external metadata relevant to supervising and enhancing Library cataloging and processing activities.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment as both a leader and colleague to achieve project outcomes and meet stakeholder expectations.
• Ability to think creatively and flexibly to balance the Library’s cataloging capacity with project goals and pragmatic outcomes.
• Proficiency in standard productivity software, including word processing, spreadsheets, virtual communication and collaborative platforms.
• Communicates effectively and presents ideas clearly.
• Ability to work with a Windows operating system required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of library automated systems; cataloging and metadata standards and platforms; and current library technologies, standards, issues and trends.
• Substantial knowledge of and experience with special collections, archival materials, and/or academic & research materials preferred.
• Reading knowledge of one or more non-English languages highly desired; capability to identify and triage materials in unfamiliar languages both in Roman and non-Roman scripts is required.

CORI – Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information check with the City of Boston.

Boston Residency Required.

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA / P / 3

Hours per week: 35