South Asian Cataloging Specialist - Military Veterans

Location: Chicago, IL
Job Description:

Job Summary:

Under the direction of the section head and following departmental guidelines, performs complex copy cataloging of monographs in all formats in national and local databases. May work with additional metadata schemas (e.g., Dublin Core, VRACore) and resource types (e.g., serials). Participates in local database maintenance projects, which may include running and analyzing queries using Structured Query Language (SQL). Performs work in accordance with national standards and local procedures.

Responsibilities:

• Performs complex copy cataloging of materials as assigned, with an emphasis on materials in Southern Asian languages. May include current acquisitions, special projects, hidden collections, and Special Collections resources.
• Searches for, evaluates, selects, edits, and downloads appropriate cataloging copy from OCLC.
• Identifies resources that require altogether new metadata records and derives and creates new metadata in OCLC and the local database, when appropriate; uses judgment to evaluate when an existing record is too brief and enhances as appropriate to facilitate discovery and access or refer to supervisor for additional remediation and enhancement; edits or adds fixed and variable field information in OCLC and local MARC records according to departmental copy cataloging procedures.
• Evaluates overall quality of copy cataloging records and applies procedures for assessing when additional or edited data is appropriate for the master national record in OCLC versus when the data is local-only.
• Adapts available cataloging copy to match piece in hand as necessary to account for variations in format or edition.
• Performs database maintenance work, including the review and maintenance of access points, working with headings validation processes and local database maintenance procedures.
• Uses a variety of national resources and tools when assigning call numbers or subject headings, including OCLC authority records, the local database, department documentation, Library of Congress Classification Web, Cataloger's Desktop, reference sources for rare books (e.g., the online English Short Title Catalogue).
• Performs other related work as needed.

Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail required.
• Ability to work effectively with supervisor, independently, and as a part of a team required.
• Flexibility and adaptability in managing tasks to meet changes in procedures, processes, and technology required.

Education, Experience, or Certifications:

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor's Degree preferred.

Experience:

• Previous library experience, or an equivalent combination of position-related education and experience required.

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

• Reading knowledge of one or more non-English South Asian languages required.
• Reading knowledge of one or more non-English Western European languages preferred.
• Familiarity with library-specific systems, database, and other academic electronic resources preferred.
• Ability to use and to learn a range of position-related software, web-based applications, and library systems required.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

• Ability to handle printed materials, including grasping and turning printed volumes and applying barcode labels.
• Ability to Push/pull full book trucks within the building.
• Ability to see, including color, depth perception, or clarity; must be able to visually focus on print and electronic material for long periods.
• Ability to use computers extensively for 4 hours or more.
• Ability to make repetitive wrist, hand, or finger movements.
• One (1) day of remote work may be available after a training period of 3-6 months.

Pay Range:

• $18.47 - $21.56

Required Documents:

• Resume
• Reference List (3)

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via the Applicant Inquiry Form.

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