Cataloger

You create the vital information that allows our customers to be successful when they search our catalogue for the information they seek. You have precise attention to detail that makes accessing the information easy. You love solving puzzles and working out the nitty gritty details that give a complete picture of our extensive collection.

You embrace and maintain an environment of inclusion, diversity, and respect with your coworkers. Whether working directly with customers or behind the scenes, our remarkable team is committed to education that aids in the dismantling of unjust systems and creating a more equitable and just society for all people. As such, we work to ensure that this mission achieves our racial and social equity goals in all that we do.

We are seeking a highly motivated Cataloger to join our team! Candidates from traditionally underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply! We offer a friendly, collaborative work environment and a generous benefits package, including 15 paid holidays and your birthday off. Interested in joining our team?

Essential Duties

You have experience:

• Performing original and copy cataloging for all types of materials, including Library of Things, audiovisual materials, and art
• Assigning Library of Congress Subject Headings and Dewey Decimal classification (DDC) call numbers
• Editing bibliographic records as necessary (AACR2 and RDA using MARC 21 tagging)
• Resolving cataloging discrepancies and answering questions from staff and customers
• Performing data-related tasks in Polaris (integrated library database)
• Performing authority work for name, series, and subject headings
• Performing quality assurance reviews on internal data repositories
• Participating in professional training and development
• Maintaining regular and predictable attendance
• Adhering to all policies and procedures
• Performing other duties and special projects, as assigned

We are guided by these shared values:

• We are your place to learn, connect, and grow
• We contribute to achieving HCLS' racial and social equity goals. Please view the Brave Voices, Brave Choices initiative.
• We advance HCLS’ educational mission, effectively communicating our curriculum, which comprises Three Pillars (Self-Directed Education, Research Assistance & Instruction, Instructive & Enlightening Experiences)

Yours skills and education include:

• Bachelor’s degree from a 4-year institution, MLS preferred
• Demonstrated experience with copy cataloging using OCLC and MARC format preferred
• People skills – the demonstrated ability to work effectively with staff and customers of various races and ethnicities, and enjoy it 
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective, collaborative working relationships
• Demonstrated ability to input and retrieve data accurately
• Demonstrated ability to search, organize, and record data with accuracy
• Have completed coursework or have familiarity with current cataloging practices (AACR2 and RDA rules, LCSH and DDC)
• Demonstrated passion for attention to detail
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Proven ability to understand and retain detailed instructions
• Demonstrated ability to work against tight deadlines and meet production goals
• Demonstrated ability to work independently to assess priorities and make sound decisions
• Computer proficiency- ability to use programs/processes such as the Internet, specialized online research tools, office applications, as well as other library-related programs 
• Polaris knowledge is a plus
• Current valid driver's license

Your job will involve being on the move:

• Job allows for variance in work routine, requiring considerable amounts of standing, walking, bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and sitting
• In addition, strenuous activity required, such as carrying bags or boxes of books or arranging rooms for classes and events
• Some driving may be required

Additional Details:

• Position located at the Administrative Branch
• Works under the supervision of the Senior Cataloger/ Cataloging Supervisor
• Full-time: 37.5 hours per week, Monday – Friday
• Evenings and weekends may be required for HCLS signature events
• Grade 8: Salary $45,138 - $79,149 annually
• Position closes on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 4 PM

EEO STATEMENT

Howard County’s diversity is its greatest asset. Howard County Library System embraces its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic character. All communities, including communities of color and immigrant communities, are fundamental to our spirit of service, workforce and long-term success. Equity and empowerment are top priorities. We believe all Howard County residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress. Among our goals is for our workforce to reflect the community it serves. We are actively working to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and/or multicultural skill sets and experiences. Howard County Library System takes pride in providing equal employment opportunities.