Library Preservation and Technical Services Fellow

The Ingalls Library is seeking a detail-oriented candidate to assist with physical processing and preservation of books in collaboration with Preservation staff. Under the guidance of seasoned professionals, the Fellow will gain experience in standards and best practices of proper handling, cleaning, and mending of library materials including rare and special collections in a variety of physical formats. 

The fellowship offers essential tools and insights for any person whose career plans include preservation, technical services librarianship, and art librarianship.

This is a part-time fellowship working 20 hours per week for 9-12 months.

Requirements 

• The ideal candidate will be currently enrolled in an MLIS program with a concentration in technical services, or an advanced undergraduate (rising senior) preparing to enroll in an MLIS program, in good academic standing. 


• Experience with measuring, precision work, and other hand skills. Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, craftsmanship, and the ability to meet deadlines and quotas. Ability to work independently and sustain attention to detail over a long period of time and interpret complex instructions. 


• Preferred: Bachelor's degree (B. A.) with emphasis in art history or related field 


• Familiarity with integrated library systems and OCLC  


• Experience working with delicate materials, precision work 


• Experience with hand tools and other equipment 

Responsibilities 

• Preserving items including the construction of enclosures, pockets, book jackets, resewing, and proper handling of delicate or fragile materials


• Proper handling and care of rare materials including books with old and brittle paper, pamphlets, ephemera, artist books, and oversized materials


• Process library materials. Includes book plating, spine labeling, counting and checking status and call number in integrated library system. 


• Maintain proficiency in all essential functions of integrated library system and OCLC


• Provide cross training backup.


• Provide support for Collection Development and Management Services Assistant as needed.


• Perform copy cataloging of books and non-book materials in English and all other European languages for the library utilizing national cataloging standards, including MARC, AARC2/RDA, LCSH, and LCCN


• Provide support for Serials and Electronic Resources Assistant as needed.


• Provide on-call support for circulation as needed. 

Application Materials: Please submit a cover letter, resume, academic references, and one paragraph describing your interest in the opportunity and what you hope to gain from this fellowship. 

Application Deadline:  The anticipated start date is May 25th, 2026 or ASAP 

Rate of Pay: $18 per hour