Curator Of Rare Books

Description:

Provide leadership and stewardship for the Mortimer Rare Book Collection (MRBC) - a significant repository of rare books, artists books, and literary manuscripts. As part of a dynamic Special Collections team, engage in the acquisition of, and robust instruction with, MRBC materials. Develop the collection in response to curricular needs and the collection development strategy. Work collaboratively with other staff to improve discovery of and access to the collection, and in doing so, further the commitment to a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. A highly active and visible curatorial role.
Essential Functions
Collection Development & Stewardship (40%)
Develop and maintain the rare books and literary manuscripts collection. Collaborate with faculty and staff to build collections that reflect current and developing curricular and research needs. Specifically, develop the collection to better align with the broad range of diverse voices, interests, and intellectual traditions present at Smith College.
With administrative support oversee the MRBC acquisition budget and manager income from endowed funds.
In close partnership with the Director, cultivate key donor relationships to advance unit priorities, initiatives, and resources.
With the repository stewards, participate in policy reviews and updates at regular intervals.
Provide input and guidance to special projects focused on the MRBC; give feedback on collection physical management, access, and description as necessary.
Engage in professional development and continual learning related to rare books and manuscripts professional practices.
Instruction (40%)
Provide expert guidance to researchers and students of the Mortimer Rare Book Collection. Primarily, this entails conducting class instruction for the Mortimer Rare Book Collection and includes working closely with faculty, preparing for instruction sessions, designing class plans and assignments, and contributing to learning outcomes and assessment.
As part of an emerging formal instruction program, work with other Special Collections and Libraries staff to refine and expand on existing teaching practices. Promote inclusive teaching and learning practices whenever possible. Stay current and engaged with pedagogical best practices, theory, and trends for an undergraduate college environment
Tailor instruction to increase special collections and rare books literacy.
Public Services (15%):
Be the primary spokesperson for the MRBC in the press and social media, lectures, and similar public engagement.
Be the primary person responsible for managing and organizing the annual Enid Mark Lecture.
Provide expert guidance and research support for rare books, including reference interviews with students and other researchers. Serve a minimum one shift per week at the Special Collections reading room desk.Actively participate in the events of Special Collections and Libraries, including annually held events such as College reunions.
Participate in workshops and conduct occasional lectures and other programs that advance public awareness of the Mortimer Rare Book Collection and Special Collections more broadly.
Consult with students and staff on the display and exhibition of Mortimer Rare Book Collection materials, as well as the digitization of MRBC holdings.

Other (5%):
Participate in the Book Studies Concentration, serving on the advisory committee, and in the work of the Libraries through service on Special Collections, Libraries-wide, and Five College committees.
Participate in the shared decision making for Special Collections. Identify and assist with grant writing related to the collection.
Perform related duties as assigned. Limited, highly sporadic evening / weekend work. Some travel required.
Minimum Qualifications (knowledge, skills, education, experience, certifications, licenses)
Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited program or equivalent experiences with an emphasis on rare books, bibliography, and/or special collections librarianship.
A minimum of five (5) years of professional, relevant rare books experience required
Bibliographic knowledge of languages in addition to English expected
Knowledge of rare materials best practice and principles including the history of the book and bibliographic standards; evidence of engagement with professional rare books and manuscripts communities including rare books commerce.
Substantial experience teaching with rare books and manuscript materials; working with and cultivating donors. A demonstrated history of working with students, faculty, and other scholars through instruction, research support, and outreach.
Understanding of rare materials handling and preservation, bibliographic and descriptive standards; knowledge of the history of the book
Demonstrated experience in managing and stewarding budgets and endowments required
Demonstration of cultural competency and sensitivity, empathy, and care in working with widely diverse people a must