Classification Title:
Library Associate 1
Job Description:
PLEASE NOTE: This position is not located on the main UF campus. The job location for this position is 4040 NE 49th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32609
JOB SUMMARY
The Resource Description Metadata Specialist is responsible for creating and enhancing descriptive metadata records for the libraries’ digital collections primarily hosted in the University of Florida Digital Collections (UFDC). This position requires the individual to work independently, in a collegial and supportive environment, while following clear policies and procedures. Creativity to apply and adapt procedures to new situations is encouraged. A high level of attention to detail and the ability to develop technological proficiency in a variety of systems, software, and other technological applications is essential. The ideal candidate will be adept at tracking concurrent projects and communicating their methods to colleagues and patrons who are not familiar with technical aspects of the work.
The primary responsibilities of the position are metadata creation and review, in both the MARC record environment and via spreadsheets, for digital projects coming primarily from the Smathers Libraries and including cooperative projects with partner departments and institutions. This position relies heavily on the incumbent’s ability to determine, define, and prioritize work responsibilities and make independent decisions.
This position is a member of the Metadata Unit, part of the Resource Description Services (RDS) Department at the University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries. It is located at the Interim Library Facility (ILF) off campus. The position is directly supervised by the Metadata Librarian.
RESPONSIBILITIES
METADATA CREATION
- Independently creates new records for UFDC and collaborative projects, using Excel, MarcEdit and OpenRefine, applying local guidelines and established controlled vocabularies.
- Independently derives electronic records in the cataloging tool--OCLC Connexion (OCLC) for newly scanned materials.
- Independently add UFDC permalinks in OCLC for digital content and link records in Alma, the library resource management tool
- Edits single records or batches of records and provides additional access points by assigning Subject and Genre terms, using established standards.
- Keeps current with policies and procedures and makes recommendations for changes as needed.
- Assists with training of other staff as necessary.
RETROSPECTIVE METADATA ENHANCEMENT
- Works with RDS colleagues to identify and prioritize OCLC content in UFDC and affiliated collections where impactful metadata correction and enhancement work can be performed.
- Independently develops and then coordinates implementation of project work plans with the team, making use of automated tools eg. auto-clickers and XML editors where possible.
- Utilizes knowledge of the library management system (e.g., bibliographic, holding, item, and order records) and library workflows and practices to effectively problem solve.
- Applies most types of bibliographic record maintenance when needed.
QUALITY CONTROL OF UFDC METADATA
- Follows instructions to perform quality control review of metadata prior to ingesting records into UFDC,
as well as reviews the digital records once they have been imported to ensure fields mapped correctly.
- Reviews and when necessary, performs corrections and enhancements on metadata submitted by partner organizations.
- Identifies and shares tips about spotting and avoiding errors.
- Reviews batch to ensure files loaded correctly.
OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED
- Participates in departmental and special projects as needed, participates on library committees, attends library and university training as needed, and pursues professional development opportunities.
Expected Salary:
$45,097 minimum salary; The Smathers Libraries offer a salary commensurate with experience and credentials.
Minimum Requirements:
High School diploma or equivalent and five years of library, or relevant experience; or an associate degree and three years of relevant experience; or a bachelor's degree and one year of relevant experience; or any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with digitization and digital collection building
- Extensive experience working with Excel spreadsheets
- Project management experience
- Direct experience with OCLC and Alma or other library management systems
- Knowledge of MARC formatted bibliographic information
- Familiarity with AACR2, Resource Description, and Access (RDA) and Library of Congress Classification and Subject Headings
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Detail oriented with the ability to work independently while following clear procedures and with the creative ability to apply and adapt procedures to new situations
- Analytical skills and the ability to record, to report statistical data, and to develop and implement procedures
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Application Process
To apply, submit
- a cover letter detailing your interest in, and qualifications for this position
- your current resume or CV
- a list of three references including their contact information (telephone number and email address)
Apply by 11:55 pm (EST) on the application close date via the Jobs at UF online application system. Applications will be reviewed as received. If you have any questions or concerns about this process, please contact Tina Marie Litchfield, George A. Smathers Libraries Human Resources Office, at tlitchfield@uflib.ufl.edu.
Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.
Health Assessment Required:
No