POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Archivist/Librarian – F/T

POSITION SUMMARY

The Archivist/Librarian is responsible for the assessment, sorting and arrangement of the archival collections and providing public and research services to a wide variety of users. Public services includes assisting visitors and researchers at the B. Naylor Morton Research and Collections Center by explaining research policies; identifying and retrieving research materials; photocopying or scanning photographs and documents; and monitoring researchers in the San Antonio Express-News Reading Room. The Archivist/Librarian ensures institutional adherence to accepted best practices in museums and archives.

The Witte Museum has an extensive archival collection featuring photographs, documents and manuscripts, maps, posters, audio visual materials, vertical files, library and institutional records. The foundation of the collection is in Texas History with strengths in photography, Circus History as well as Texas Art.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develops and implements archives management policies and activities based on best practices
• Develops and implements a functioning plan for the arrangement, cataloging and preservation to the Witte Museum’s historic document, photograph and library collections and institutional archive
• Develops access tools for the collection including collection guides and finding aids
• Develops strategies promoting research in the archival collections
• Conducts necessary preventative conservation and re-housing of archival materials
• Processes incoming and backlogged collections by accessioning them into the main collection using the museum’s collection management software
• Processes requests to photograph, photocopy and scan archival materials
• Extracts and relays information for curators, staff, donors and researchers and assists with public inquiries
• Oversees and trains interns and volunteers in the proper handling of archival materials

EDUCATION:

• Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Humanities fields or a field related to Museum Studies
• Preferred: Masters Degree in Information and Library Science or Museum Studies

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

• Ability to plan and create an archive program
• Demonstrated knowledge of archival principles and practices
• Demonstrated knowledge of preservation methods and theory
• Demonstrated knowledge of digital imaging and metadata standards
• Skilled in organizing resources and establishing priorities
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Experience in museum archives or other public history setting
• Preferred experience with archives management software or museum collection management software
• Preferred knowledge of Texas history

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs., lift and carry items while walking and climbing stairs
• Ability to climb a platform ladder to access collections

The Witte Museum is an equal opportunity employer.

Closing date: May 20, 2014

Resumes may be emailed to: humanresources@wittemuseum.org