Book Conservator

The New York Society Library is New York City’s oldest library, founded in 1754. The Library is open to all for reading, reference, exhibitions, and selected events, with circulation and other services available to members. Membership is open to all for an annual fee. The Library’s beautiful, landmarked building dates from 1917 and includes reading rooms, spaces for study, book stacks, a Children’s Library, and the Assunta, Ignazio, Ada and Romano Peluso Exhibition Gallery. The Library has approximately 300,000 volumes in its collection, and hosts a variety of special events, reading & writing groups, workshops, and the Young Writers Awards and New York City Book Awards. The Library has a staff of 31 and a Board of Trustees of 23 members. 

**Position Summary: **

The New York Society Library (NYSL) is seeking an enthusiastic and accomplished professional to be our Book Conservator.  

Reporting to the Director of Collections, the Book Conservator is responsible for the physical care, preservation, and conservation treatment of general, special, and archival collections of the library.  Duties include performing item level treatments, coordinating and participating in collection-level preservation projects, preparing and installing materials for exhibitions, and promoting the Library’s conservation program through participation in tours, workshops, and writing for newsletters, website, etc.  

Duties and Responsibilities 

Perform a range of conservation treatments on circulating and rare books, archives and other library materials in accordance with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice. Prepare photographic and written documentation of treatments as appropriate.  

Create custom protective enclosures for collection material.  Advise staff on proper storage of materials as needed. 

Collaborate with Acquisitions, Circulation, and Special Collections staff to identify treatment priorities and create efficient workflows.  

Manage the administrative duties of the lab; order supplies, manage the budget, collect statistics, prepare reports, and maintain equipment.  

Develop and maintain a written disaster plan for library collection material and participate in recovery efforts.   

Oversee environmental monitoring of collections spaces. 

Review and prepare library materials for exhibit; create custom cradles and assist in installation.  

Participate in department head meetings and serve on library committees as necessary. Advise library staff on conservation and preservation issues.  

Provide training for library staff on the proper handling of materials, disaster recovery, and basic collection care as needed.  

Participate in education and outreach by conducting tours and workshops for library patrons, and providing content for library publications, website, etc.  

Keep abreast of recent developments in the field and represent the library through attendance at conferences and participation in professional organizations. 

Perform related duties as assigned by supervisor. 

Maintain compliance with all Library policies and procedures. 

**Required Skills & Qualifications **

Graduate degree in conservation with a specialization in books and/or library and archival materials; an MLS degree from an ALA-accredited library program with advanced training in conservation; or an equivalent combination of experience, education and training. 

At least five years post-internship bench experience required, preferably in a research library or similar institution. 

Demonstrated working knowledge of current conservation theory and practice, as well as the history of books, bookbinding and papermaking. 

Knowledge of a wide range of conservation treatments and experience working with a variety of binding materials.  

Demonstrated ability to recognize the causes of damage to library materials and select and perform appropriate treatments.  

Demonstrated ability to initiate and adapt to change, to analyze and solve problems, to be flexible and work well collaboratively and collegially in a small, but dynamic organizational setting, as well as independently. 

Strong organizational skills, including the ability to establish priorities and achieve goals. 

Demonstrated technology skills, including a familiarity with digital equipment and software. 

**Work Conditions **

This is a full-time position with work scheduled during Library open hours. Regular hours are 9:00AM to 5:00PM Quiet conditions 

Physical:   

Sitting: 60-80% 

Standing/Walking: 20-40% 

Lifting: Occasional lifting up to 30 lbs. 

Vision: Normal.  Requires long periods of work at computers. 

Environmental:            

Indoor environment; Working closely with others and also independently. Occasional exposure to dust and mold. 

**Salary and Benefits **

Compensation: $50,000 - $65,000 commensurate with experience and including a full benefits package including health/dental/vision plans, 403(b) defined contribution plan, flexible benefits plan, and vacation, holiday, and sick time. 

**How to apply **

To be considered for the position, potential candidates should email a resume and cover letter outlining your interest and how your skills and experiences meet the qualifications for the position to Eric Wolf, Director of Collections at [email protected]. Please include “Book Conservator” as the subject line. Applications without the requested information will not be considered.  

Visit our website at www.nysoclib.org for more information about the Library. 

The New York Society Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

Compensation

$50,000 - $65,000 yearly

Application URL or Email

Apply online here

Submit specified application materials to [email protected].