Experienced Special Collections and University Archives Assistant for Digital Archival Management and Preservation

Introduction to Bucknell University and the Role

Bucknell University, a prestigious institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation, is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Special Collections/University Archives Assistant to join its team. This is an exceptional opportunity for an individual passionate about archival management, digital preservation, and making historical collections accessible to the public. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in converting Word/PDF finding aids into digital, searchable records in ArchivesSpace, thereby enhancing the discoverability and usability of Bertrand Library's unique collections related to prominent Irish and British authors.

About Bertrand Library and Its Collections

Bertrand Library houses an extraordinary collection of archival materials, including works by William Butler Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, H.G. Wells, Oscar Wilde, and William Morris. Despite the collection's relatively small size, its significance is undeniable, offering invaluable insights into the lives and works of these literary giants. The library's goal is to digitize the existing analog finding aids for these collections and migrate them to ArchivesSpace, an online archival management system, to ensure public accessibility and promote scholarly research.

Key Responsibilities

• Data Transfer and Management: Accurately transfer data between Word and ArchivesSpace, utilizing export, input, and data verification functionalities according to established guidelines.
• Metadata Application: Assign Library of Congress name authorities and subject headings to records, ensuring consistency and adherence to archival standards.
• Technical Troubleshooting: Identify and troubleshoot technical issues related to data transfer and management, collaborating with the supervisor as needed to resolve problems efficiently.
• Quality Assurance: Collaborate with the supervisor to discuss missing or incorrect data, implementing necessary corrections to maintain the integrity of the digital records.
• Non-Essential Functions: The job description's listed responsibilities and tasks are not exhaustive, and additional non-essential tasks and responsibilities may be assigned as needed to support the team's objectives.

Work Setting and Arrangements

This is a fully remote opportunity, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere. The role is expected to conclude on June 30, 2025, unless deemed necessary to continue, providing a clear timeline for the project's completion.

What You'll Bring to the Role

• Education: Applicants must possess a Bachelor's degree, demonstrating a foundation in academic research and critical thinking.
• Ability to Work: The ability to work 10-15 hours per week, with a strong commitment to meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality results.
• Knowledge Areas and Skills: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Currently enrolled or having completed a master's level program in Archival Studies or Library Science with a concentration in Archives, or having completed relevant coursework, demonstrating advanced knowledge of archival principles and practices.
• Professional Work Experience: One or more years of experience employed in an archival setting, with a proven track record of successfully managing and preserving historical collections.
• Knowledge Areas and Skills: Competency with ArchivesSpace software, experience creating finding aids, an understanding of archival concepts like accessioning, arrangement, and description, and metadata standards, familiarity with data entry in web-based interfaces, and knowledge of EAD.

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

By joining Bucknell University's team, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills in digital archival management, metadata application, and technical troubleshooting. You will also be part of a community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a strong commitment to fostering an environment that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Bucknell University offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and excellence. As a member of the team, you will be part of a community that values flexibility, work-life balance, and employee well-being, with access to a range of benefits, including flexible scheduling options, medical and retirement benefits, and generous paid time off.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

The compensation for this role is competitive, with a salary range of $18.00 per hour. Additionally, eligible full- and part-time employees are compensated beyond base salary through Bucknell's total rewards package, which includes:

• Flexible Scheduling Options: Determined by role, allowing for a better work-life balance.
• Medical, Prescription Drug, Vision, Dental, Life, and Long-Term Disability Insurance Options: Providing comprehensive coverage for you and your family.
• Outstanding 10% Employer Contribution to Your Retirement Plan: With no contribution requirement for non-exempt positions, helping you plan for your future.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Including vacation and sick time, a community service day, and 19 paid holidays, allowing you to recharge and pursue your interests.
• Tuition Remission: For yourself, your spouse/spousal equivalent, and your children, supporting your ongoing education and development.
• Comprehensive Employee Wellness Program: Including program incentives, promoting your physical and mental well-being.
• Myriad of Other Benefits: Including parental leave, an employee assistance program, fitness center membership, and the power of your Bucknell ID card, enhancing your overall quality of life.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Bucknell University is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion, seeking candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community. We endeavor to enhance our capacity to value and capitalize on the cultural richness that diversity brings, and we encourage all individuals to apply, without discrimination in admissions, employment, educational programs, and/or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, sex/gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or family status, military or veteran status, or genetic information.

How to Apply

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please visit https://bucknell.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/External/job/Bertrand-Library/Special-Collections-University-Archives-Assistant_R0000001024-1. We look forward to receiving your application and exploring how you can contribute to our team's success.

Conclusion

This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your career in archival management and digital preservation, working with a unique and significant collection of historical materials. If you have the skills, passion, and commitment to excellence we're looking for, please submit your application today and join our team at Bucknell University. Together, we can make a difference in preserving our cultural heritage and promoting scholarly research.