Position Description

Performs complex professional and administrative functions in the operation of a specialized section in the library; must cooperate and function as part of a team to provide services to all library users. This is an entry-level rank assigned to those beginning their professional careers or those, who upon their appointment, do not meet the criteria of Associate Librarian. Work is performed under general supervision with latitude for individual initiative and judgment. Evaluation is based upon accomplishment of defined objectives. May supervise various technical and clerical library employees.

Major/Essential Functions

The Special Formats Cataloging Librarian is responsible for original, adjusted, and complex copy cataloging, which includes bibliographic control and metadata for a wide range of materials in various formats for the Southwest Collection/Special Collections Library according to national, shared system, and local standards; performs general cataloging maintenance such as bibliographic enhancement, reclassification, and subject analysis using MARC/RDA format.

The Special Formats Cataloging Librarian will create and maintain high quality metadata and records for library materials in the Southwest Collection/Special Collections Library including manuscripts, oral histories, multimedia not limited to VHS, CDs, etc., university publications, and other formats as assigned.

The cataloger will work closely with their supervisor and regularly collaborate with colleagues throughout the library including technical services, the Southwest Collection, oral histories unit, the Southwest Music Archive, University Archives, Rare Books, digital and AV units, and The Sowell Family Collection in Literature, Community and the Natural World.

Trains cataloging staff in cataloging/metadata standards, new technology applications, systems, and tools to continuously improve cataloging/metadata efficiency and quality in communication with their supervisor.

The incumbent is also expected to engage in scholarly pursuit and other professional activities in accordance with Texas Tech Libraries' standards for promotion and tenure. This includes participation in scholarly and professional activities, including publication of journal articles, grants, and book reviews and presentations at regional and national professional conferences, which contribute to the practice of academic librarianship, archival practices, and instruction.

No less than four hours of reference duties a week are required, including extended hours as scheduled. While on reference duty, there is an additional responsibility for the Holden Reading Room, as well as those student assistants assigned to work there. Additionally, there is the need to assist with reference as requested and the flexibility to do other tasks.

In the absence of their supervisor, it is expected that the librarian in this position be able to assume supervisory duties germane to supervised units (i.e. technical processing, reference, and conservation) as requested.

The position requires travel as needed to support the organization.

Participates in and contributes to departmental, library, and campus-wide committees or working groups as well as the profession at a regional, national, and/or international level and performs duties as assigned.