Special Collections Curator

Boston College Libraries seeks a Special Collections Curator to develop collections of rare and unique materials centered on people and ideas that have contributed to the shaping of global cultures and societies, especially those pertaining to Boston College’s distinctive Jesuit, Catholic intellectual and spiritual heritage and its historical origins serving immigrant communities, particularly those of Irish descent.

Reporting to and working in close collaboration with the Associate University Librarian for Scholarly Resources and Burns Librarian, the Curator will acquire materials for the John J. Burns Library of rare books, special collections, and archives. The Curator will strategize with fellow BC Libraries’ staff and faculty members on collecting opportunities to support both traditional and emerging areas of teaching, learning, and research, and help to formulate and communicate collecting priorities and successes.

The Curator will cultivate and steward relationships with current and prospective donors and collectors, members of the rare book and manuscript trade, and professional and scholarly communities. The Curator will also contribute to the interpretation and promotion of Burns Library collections through the organization of programs and events, and through presentations, talks, and publications. The Curator may also be asked to assist with the creation of physical and online exhibits, facilitation of instructional sessions, and responses to reference questions. In addition, the Curator may also be invited to collaborate in enhancing the discoverability and utility of Burns Library collections through digital scholarship and selection of materials for digitization.

The Curator conducts research on potential acquisitions to assess their significance and relevance to Burns Library’s collecting aims and negotiate favorable terms for their acquisition. The Curator understands and applies evolving legal and ethical considerations for provenance, intellectual property rights, and privacy. The Curator upholds professional standards, engaging responsibly and imaginatively with the complex tasks of building primary source collections. Depending on the incumbent’s linguistic skills, disciplinary knowledge, and evolving BC Libraries’ needs, the Curator may also be offered opportunities to contribute to the development of the Libraries’ general collections in coordination with subject liaison librarians.

Please submit BOTH a cover letter and resume

This position will remain opened until filled, with priority consideration given to applications received by February 17, 2025.

Title and salary commensurate with relevant experience based on the following titles and hiring ranges:

Senior Special Collections Curator: $74,000- $92,500 - Requires five (5) years of Librarian experience Special Collections Curator: $67,100 -$83,900 - Requires two (2) years of Librarian experience Associate  Special Collections Curator: $60,700- $75,850 - Requires three (3) years of non-exempt library experience or one (1) year of Librarian experience

Qualifications

Master’s degree in library or information science, or an advanced degree in an academic discipline related to Burns Library collections. A minimum of two years of experience working with rare books, manuscripts, or archives. Reading knowledge of Latin, Greek, Irish, or modern European languages desirable.

Full/Part Time

Full Time

Education

MLS/Masters

Salary Range$74,000.00 - $92,500.00  / year

Salary Notes

Salary and title TBD, see above ranges

Closing Date

How to Apply

Please apply by visiting bc.edu/jobs

This position will remain opened until filled, with priority consideration given to applications received by February 17, 2025.