Library Technical Assistant - Cataloging

Responsible for receiving, assessing, organizing, and processing books and ephemera transferred from HUC libraries. This position supports the accuracy and integrity of the library's collections by performing copy cataloging and item record maintenance for rare and potentially rare material and ensuring materials are properly prepared for preservation and shelving. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following: 

1. Unpack books and ephemera received from other HUC libraries and review for evidence of prior cataloging 
2. Identify damaged materials and route them to the binding assistant for repair or preservation. 
3. Verify the accuracy of bibliographic metadata for previously cataloged materials using the online cataloging system. 
4. 4. Route materials requiring cataloging corrections to the appropriate cataloger. 
5. 5. Edit item-level records to assign the appropriate branch, location, and other required metadata. 
6. 6. Shelve books and materials in accordance with established library procedures. Perform other duties as assigned. 

Education 

• Associate's degree or college coursework in Library Informatics, Archival Studies, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. 

Experience 

• One year of experience working in a library, archive, bookstore, museum, or similar collection-based environment. Demonstrated experience working with an integrated library system, or similar 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities 

•  Ability to identify, interpret, and accurately describe bibliographic information in books and ephemera.  
• Strong attention to detail and ability to perform work requiring a high degree of accuracy.  
• Ability to organize and manage materials while maintaining established cataloging and archival standards.  
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn library cataloging systems and other specialized software.  
• Familiarity with rare books, archival collections, or library technical services preferred.  
• Familiarity with Jewish texts, history, and culture preferred. 

Technology 

• Microsoft Office 365 – Outlook 
• Integrated library software – OCLC WorldShare preferred  

Core Values 

Employees are expected to model Hebrew Union College’s Core Values:  

• Honesty and Integrity  
• Kindness and Decency  
• Openness and Transparency  
• Responsible Empowerment  
• Trust and Security  
• Diversity and Inclusion  

Work Environment & Physical Demands  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. 

Work is performed in an office environment: 

• Manual dexterity sufficient to handle rare, sometimes fragile, materials without causing damage 
• Ability to retrieve and distribute books, written documents, and boxes up to 25 pounds, and retrieve and replace objects from shelves of up to 8 feet high using a stepstool 
• In addition to required interaction with other staff on the local campus, all Library employees will work cooperatively with system-wide staff members on all campuses