Conservator for Special Collections
Columbia University Libraries
The Columbia University Libraries invites nominations and applications
for the Conservator for Special Collections.
Reporting to the Head of Conservation, the Conservator for Special
Collections will plan, document and perform complex conservation
treatments on ancient, medieval and modern library materials, including
rare books, bound and unbound manuscripts, prints, maps and drawings on
paper or parchment. Under the general direction of the Head of
Conservation, the incumbent will work with liaisons in special
collections libraries to select items for treatment and to set annual
priorities for conservation of collections; will co‐ordinate workflow of
treatments through the Conservation Department and participate in
planning for exhibits and loans; will participate in environmental
monitoring, testing and ordering of materials and supplies, staff
supervision; will participate in management of the disaster response
program; and will carry out other duties relating to the preservation of
the Libraries' collections. The incumbent will participate in teaching
and training interns and junior staff. The Conservator for Special
Collections will assist the Head with developing and documenting
procedures for the conservation of rare library materials, and will keep
abreast of professional literature and new developments in the field,
cooperating with other conservators in performing research and
development toward the advancement of conservation.
Minimum Requirements: MLS or PhD or equivalent plus:
1. Graduate degree in conservation of books and/or archival library
materials or equivalent training and experience (e.g. formal
apprenticeship).
2. Minimum of two years post‐internship professional experience, or
an equivalent combination of experience and education, preferably in a
research library or similar institution.
3. Demonstrated ability to identify causes of damage, select
appropriate treatments, perform and document the full range of
conservation treatments of library materials, including bookbinding of
historic significance.
4. Knowledge of a wide range of conservation practices and procedures.
5. Knowledge of chemistry as it applies to the conservation of
library and museum collections.
6. Knowledge of the history of the book, the history and techniques
of bookbinding and papermaking, and the history of manufacture of other
library materials.
7. Knowledge of environmental monitoring techniques and optimal
collection storage environments.
8. Knowledge of and adherence to professional ethical practice in
conservation.
9. Strong organizational, interpersonal and communication skills
(verbal and written).
Preferred Qualifications:
1. Minimum 3 years of professional conservation experience within a
research library or similar academic setting.
2. Experience using electronic data loggers and software.
3. Experience using database software and digital imaging software to
document treatments.
4. Demonstrated successful project management experience.
5. Demonstrated ability to contribute to the profession through
formal teaching, research and/or publication.
Compensation: We offer a salary commensurate with qualifications and
experience.
Location: New York City
To Apply:
https://academicjobs.columbia.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=65697
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications
received on or before February 15, 2018 will receive priority consideration.
Potential applicants with questions about the position are encouraged to
contact Alexis Hagadorn: ah333_at_columbia_edu
Organizational Information
Columbia University Libraries is one of the top five academic research
library systems in North America. The collections include over 13
million volumes, over 160,000 journals and serials, as well as extensive
electronic resources, manuscripts, rare books, microforms, maps, and
graphic and audio-visual materials. The Libraries employs more than 400
professional and support staff and hosts over 4.7 million visitors each
year. The website of the Libraries is the gateway to its services and
resources: library.columbia.edu.
Columbia University has a longstanding commitment to diversity rooted in
values of inclusion and social justice, a commitment reflected in the
curriculum and throughout University life. Columbia welcomes
applications from candidates who share these values and who will foster
their contribution to the University's educational mission. We invite
applicants who have demonstrated creative approaches to empowering and
mentoring staff, leading projects, solving problems, and developing
user-centric programs, services, or collections. We offer salary and
benefits commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
Alexis Hagadorn
Head of Conservation
Columbia University Libraries
535 West 114th Street
New York, NY 10027
212-854-3580
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