Conservator for Special Collections
The Conservator for Special Collections plans and carries out the physical treatment of special collections material from the Duke University Libraries including those from the Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Duke University Archives, and branch libraries. This position reports to the Head, Conservation Services Department (CSD).
Responsibilities
Conservation (80%)
- Works with the department head and appropriate conservation and library staff to develop treatment strategies for special collections materials. Coordinates treatments and priorities with the Head of CSD.
- Performs appropriate conservation treatments on library materials held in the Libraries’ rare and special collections in support of various workflows including those for Rubenstein Library User Services and Technical Services, the Digital Production Center, and the Exhibits Program. Scope of work includes treating primarily bound and unbound books, manuscripts and other documents on paper and vellum. Depending on the conservator’s expertise the scope may also include treating photographs, papyri, and other formats and substrates found in the collections. Documents treatments with photographs and written reports following CSD and American Institute for Conservation (AIC) guidelines and best practices.
- Identifies items for which protective enclosures will be the most effective preservation option; constructs appropriate protective enclosures or delegates the construction of enclosures to other staff, students or volunteers.
- Other related duties as assigned.
Departmental Support and Programming Initiatives (10%)
- Participates in planning and setting goals, managing projects and developing workflows in support of CSD priorities.
- Assists in providing disaster recovery services for library materials.
- Other related duties as assigned.
Professional Development (10%)
- Actively participates on appropriate Library committees, task forces or groups to meet the strategic goals of the Department and the Duke University Libraries.
- Displays continuing growth in professional and subject knowledge and takes an active interest in the profession. Growth and interest should be demonstrated through continuing development of professional knowledge and abilities, membership and participation in professional organizations, and service to the library, University, or community in a professional capacity.
Supervisory Responsibilities
- Provides training, supervision and quality control for students, staff and volunteers in coordination with the department head and/or senior conservator.
- May serve as interim supervisor in the absence of the department head and senior conservator.
Qualifications
It is the expectation that all Duke University Libraries staff members will demonstrate exceptional workplace behaviors in the execution of their specific position responsibilities. These behaviors are customer focus, collaboration, creative problem solving, continuous learning and a commitment to diversity.
Education:
Required: ALA-accredited MLS or Master’s degree in conservation of library and archival materials, or demonstration of a similar level of education and training required for the conservation of rare materials.
Preferred: Demonstrated record of continued education in areas relevant to this position.
Experience:
Required:
- Minimum of three years of demonstrated experience in conservation of special collections and knowledge of current conservation principles, practices, and procedures.
- Exceptional manual skills and a full understanding of current conservation theory, principles, practices and procedures.
- Knowledge of physical and chemical mechanisms of deterioration of library materials.
- Knowledge of conservation ethics and practices relevant to research library materials; commitment to AIC standards of practice and Code of Ethics.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and productively in a changing environment.
- Strong organizational, interpersonal, and oral and written communication skills.
Preferred:
- Prior experience working in an academic research library or archives.
- Prior experience supervising conservation technicians and students.
- Expertise in the treatment of photographic materials; works on art on paper, vellum and parchment; or similar cultural heritage materials generally found in academic libraries and university archives.
- Experience evaluating and treating materials to prepare them for digital imaging and/or exhibitions.
- Experience in exhibitions including preparation, installation, materials testing and environmental monitoring.
- Teaching experience.
For a complete job description including directions for applying, please see:
http://library.duke.edu/about/jobs/conservator