Metadata and Cataloging Librarian

Description

The Metadata & Cataloging Librarian actively contributes to the Knowledge Access & Resource Management Department in the Libraries at West Virginia University by creating, harvesting, and enhancing metadata for WVU collections in both MARC and non-MARC formats, using batch processes as appropriate.  By staying up to date with metadata standards, library management system platforms, and their user communities, the position assists in overseeing Unit projects and operations, optimizes workflows, trains staff, and troubleshoots problems regarding metadata and cataloging for the Unit and Libraries. 

Major Responsibilities:

• Perform original and complex copy cataloging of WVU Libraries’ collections based on national and local policies and best practices (MARC, RDA, LCSH, LCC, DDC) 
• Create, maintain, and enrich metadata for WVU Libraries’ collections with particular emphasis on batch and API-based processes utilizing bibliographic transformation tools and scripting (MarcEdit, OpenRefine, Python) 
• Manage Metadata Projects as assigned and assist in designing and training staff on Metadata Unit workflows 
• Collaborate across the Department and Libraries to troubleshoot issues related to display and retrieval in the Library Management System 
• Collaborate with colleagues across the institution to develop metadata best practices, including the selection of metadata schemas, data elements, controlled vocabularies, and crosswalks to make resources accessible for collections in diverse formats 
• Collaboratively identify, enrich, transform, and harvest metadata onto Libraries platforms from open, first party, or affiliated sources 
• Serve on appropriate committees in the Libraries and on campus 
• Establish a progressive record of professional participation that meets the criteria for promotion at the WVU Libraries 

Condition of Work and Benefits:

• Twelve-month assignment, 37.5 hours weekly M-F with occasional weekend and evening work possible
• Flexible Hybrid work schedule possible
• Faculty rank and status, non-tenure track
• Health and retirement benefits
• Generous paid vacation, holiday, and sick leave
• A supportive work environment with funding support for research and professional activities

We welcome beginning or early career librarians and anticipate filling this position at the rank of Assistant University Librarian or Associate University Librarian. Faculty rank is determined by the WVU Library Criteria for Library Faculty Appointment, Retention, Promotion, and Merit. At the Assistant University Librarian level salary starts at $61,000, however, rank is determined by years served in a professional librarian capacity. Assistant University Librarian (5 years or fewer), Associate University Librarian (6 year to 12 years) and University Librarian (13 years or more) years of professional library experience or its equivalent.

Exemplary job performance, professional development and/or research, and service are required for reappointment and promotion in rank

Application Procedure:

• The application review process will begin in October 2024 and continue until the position is filled. A complete application must include:
• Cover letter
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Three current, professional references
• Apply Online only at WVU Jobs

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree from an ALA-accredited program
• Knowledge of integrated library systems, library or content management systems, and data transformation tools like MARCEdit or OpenRefine 
• Experience working with Machine-Readable Cataloging (MARC) bibliographic and holdings formats; familiarity with MARC authority format and the Library of Congress Name Authority File (LCNAF)
• Experience with cataloging standards including the Rules for Description and Access (RDA) 
• Familiarity with non-MARC metadata standards (Dublin Core, EAD, OAI-PMH, KBART)
• Knowledge of Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) or other controlled vocabularies, Library of Congress Classification (LCC), and Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) 
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills
• Ability to manage projects and create training materials 
• Ability to complete tasks in a timely manner, prioritize workload, and work collaboratively

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with mark-up, semi-structured, and structured data languages (HTML, XML, JSON) 
• Familiarity with linked data mark-up and querying languages (RDF, RDFa, SPARQL) 
• Familiarity with scripting and querying languages (SQL, R, VBA, Python) or willingness to learn