Position: Supervisory Librarian (Head, Hispanic Reading Room)
Location: Library of Congress
Posted: USA Jobs
Salary: $139,395-181,216

This position is located in the Hispanic Reading Room, Latin American, Caribbean and European Division, General and International Collections Directorate, Researcher and Collections Services. The position description number for this position is 458791.

The Head of Reference Services in the Hispanic Reading Room is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Section, supervising the staff, and serving as a lead reference in matters dealing with the countries, languages, and regions within the Section’s geographic areas of responsibility. Under the guidance of the Division Chief, the incumbent assures the provision of timely and accurate reference service to the Congress and other Library patrons, directs the development and maintenance of the Library’s collections pertaining to the region, facilitates access to these collections for scholars, researchers, and others worldwide, and manages the development of digital technology to advance the Section’s goals. 

The incumbent plans and produces educational programs, exhibits, seminars, and colloquia to bring attention to research developments and collections of interest to scholars and the general public. The incumbent may be responsible for cultivating relations with potential donors, securing funds for new initiatives, acquiring new collections, and establishing new services. In addition, the incumbent may also be assigned to perform general administrative duties for the division and to serve in lieu of the chief as required. 

Duties:

• Supervises the work of the Section’s staff. Plans the work of the Section, including formulating goals and objectives and identifying opportunities for improvements in methods and procedures. Supervises and participates in the preparation of reports, translations, bibliographies, exhibits, web pages and other information products of the Section.  Performs the administrative and human resource management functions relative to the staff supervised. Establishes guidelines and performance expectations for staff members, which are clearly communicated through the formal employee performance management system.
• Plans, establishes, and directs a library reference program to provide information about the region. Oversees all reference service provided by the section’s staff. On assignment, supervises staffing of the division’s reading room and administers the policies and regulations concerning security and access to the collections.  Collaborates with other Library staff and outside partners in the U.S. and abroad in developing and providing access to library resources through the web and by other means.
• Makes significant recommendations to change, interpret, or develop important or innovative policies affecting the process and funding of acquisitions from and relating to the area of the section’s responsibility.  Oversees staff making authoritative recommendations for the acquisition of material in all languages, formats, and subjects of relevance to the study of the region, including legal, audiovisual, and electronic items.
• Plans and produces public programs, exhibits, seminars, and colloquia on the region, bringing attention to research developments and collections of interest to both scholars and the general public. Under the guidance of the Division Chief, may be responsible for cultivating relations with potential donors and securing funds for acquisitions, public programs, exhibits, and other activities related to the section’s geographic area.
• Reviews and analyzes major issues in information research and dissemination as they apply to providing information about the region. Provides highly specialized research for the use of Congressional clients, the courts, national security agencies and other researchers inside and outside the Library.
• Performs various other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: The knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) that are marked with a double asterisk (**) in the vacancy announcement and the applicant questionnaire are considered the most critical for a position.

• Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.
• Ability to supervise, motivate and lead a diverse workforce.**
• Knowledge of reference practices and research services.**
• Ability to analyze, plan, develop and/or execute library programs and projects.**
• Knowledge of integrated library systems, library applications, and other information technologies.**
• Knowledge of the cultures and languages from Latin America, the Caribbean, the Iberian Peninsula, and/or Heritage communities in the United States.**
• Ability to provide consultation or liaison duties.
• Ability to communicate in written English in performing professional duties.
• Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing.

Education: All librarians must meet the requirements for professional education in library science or possess equivalent experience and education.

A.  Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor’s degree; OR

B.  A total of at least 5 years of a combination of college-level education, training, and experience. To qualify on this basis, the applicant must establish conclusively that the education, training, and experience provided a knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and techniques of professional librarianship; a knowledge of literature resources; and the knowledge and abilities essential for providing effective library and information services.

---

Position: Chief, African and Middle Eastern Division
Location: Library of Congress
Posted: USA Jobs
Salary: $147,649-221,900

This position is located in the African and Middle Eastern Division, General and International Collections Directorate, Researcher and Collections Services. The position description number for this position is 459598.

Duties:

• The position serves as the Chief, African and Middle Eastern Division (AMED), in the Library Collections and Services Group (LCSG), Researcher and Collections Services (RCS), General and Internal Collections Directorate (GICD) within the African and Middle Eastern Division (AMED), at the Library of Congress (LC) and reports directly to the Director, GICD. 
• The incumbent serves as the Library’s principal representative in matters dealing with the countries, languages and regions covered by the division. This includes the provision of services related to collections of the relevant countries of origin, the related American Diasporas, and engagement with African, Middle Eastern, and Hebraic studies broadly. With guidance from the director, and in keeping with overall Library strategy and objectives, the Chief formulates the division’s vision, establishes the mission and goals, determines objectives, manages resources, and evaluates the overall performance of the division.  
• The Chief has primary responsibility for building the collections of the de facto national library as it pertains to the growth and direction of the Library’s AMED collections, facilitating research and reference service onsite and virtually, and coordinating library outreach and engagement with a large and diverse array of users and communities.  
• The Chief is responsible for effectively communicating and cooperating with stakeholders across the Library, and with external organizations.  
• Operationally, the Chief is responsible for governance and compliance within the division, sets policies for, administers, and supervises division staff, programs, services, and activities, and ensures the overall administrative and operational effectiveness of the division, in keeping with established policies, procedures, and timelines.  
• The Chief has responsibility for oversight and administration of all aspects of the division’s organization, services, and programs. Incorporates inclusive and equitable policies and processes to ensure diversity and accessibility in all collections development, research service, and outreach and engagement efforts.  Establishes and maintains an assessment approach to ensure the division evaluates its effectiveness and strives for continuous improvement.
• The Chief sets and implements a collection development strategy that ensures a diverse, balanced, and sustainable portfolio via the division’s Africa, Near East, and Hebraic Sections. Supports the Library’s mandate to have collections that are inclusive and representative of a diversity of creators and ideas and ensures the acquisition of material of underrepresented perspectives and voices.
• Supervises a group of employees performing work up to the GS-14 level. Provides administrative and technical supervision relative to the staff supervised. Plans work to be accomplished by subordinates, sets, and adjusts short-term and long-term priorities, and prepares schedules for completion of work. Assigns work to subordinates based on priorities, selective consideration of the difficulty and requirements of assignments, and the capabilities of employees. Observes workers’ performance; demonstrates and conducts work performance critiques.  
• The Chief establishes and maintains effective working relationships with various high-level officials, including Members of Congress and their staff, other legislative and executive agencies, donors, and distinguished members of the public, to advance the mission of the Division and the mission and goals of the Library.
• Establishes and maintains close and cooperative working relationships with Library officials, other government agencies, and academic and cultural institutions with related interests in the subject areas of the Division. Communicates with service units and directorate management teams on the status of various work activities, programs, and projects.
• The Library has many user types, including Congress, researchers, foreign and domestic agencies, national and international academics and scholars, research and scientific institutions, professional, business, and other communities of practice, visitors, and the general public.
• The Chief ensures the division supports the vision of being a library for all, onsite and online, and builds services around the experience and needs of our researchers, regardless of what stage of sophistication individual researchers have with the complexities of using the Library of Congress collections.
• As a key member of the management team of GICD, RCS, and LCSG, provides expert advice to the Director of GICD and other executives of LCSG, and senior management officials in other parts of the Library, including Center for Learning, Literacy and Engagement (CLLE), Visitor Engagement Office (VEO), etc., on various programs, plans, and policies.

Relocation fees may be considered for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement.

Conditions of Employment: The Supervisor leads his/her staff toward meeting the Library’s vision, mission, and goals by acting decisively, leveraging diversity and inclusiveness, demonstrating flexibility and resilience, fostering continuous improvement and innovation, and fostering integrity and honesty. To view the Library’s Supervisory Core Competencies click the following link: https://www.loc.gov/static/portals/careers/documents/loc_supervisor_core_competencies.pdf

Qualifications: Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision. The competencies below are required for this position.  Those marked with a double asterisk (**) are considered the most critical competencies for this position. A candidate’s resume must show a proven record of accomplishment that clearly demonstrates he or she has experience:

• Implementing the principles, concepts, and methods of library science. ** The successful candidate has applied professional knowledge of library and information management principles, concepts, and methods to manage library functions and carry out library programs in a research library setting; used this knowledge to create content, organize material, and provide access to analog and digital collections. Experience with the following: 1) setting priorities and policies for general and special collections management; 2) developing strategies to improve the research experience and a culture of assessment; 3) determining strategies to organize, digitize and make collections accessible; 4) providing leadership for collection management, development and acquisition; 5) working closely with library subject specialists in setting performance goals; and 6) developing collaborative approaches to public outreach to increase the use of Library collections and services.
• Knowledge of the countries, languages, and regions of Africa and/or the Middle East. ** The successful candidate has professional knowledge of the countries, languages, and regions of Africa and/or the Middle East in order to command credibility in the research and information communities, to recognize trends in research, and identify collaborative opportunities with persons from the regions.
• Ability to lead and inspire change. ** The successful candidate has the ability to lead people effectively and inspire change in developing and implementing Library of Congress values, principles, and direction. This includes the ability to promote ideas with enthusiasm, conviction, and assertiveness; resolve contentious situations; solicit and consider others’ opinions; gain support and commitment from others; motivate and inspire others; and promote a culture of change and growth.
• Ability to supervise, develop and lead a diverse workforce. ** The successful candidate has led people to meet an organization’s vision, mission, and strategic goals. Provided an inclusive workplace that fostered the development of others, facilitated cooperation and teamwork, and supported constructive resolution of differing opinions by using innovative approaches and future-oriented thinking. Performed human resources management functions such as: managed the budget and personnel planning for divisions under his/her direction; established performance expectations for the division chiefs and staff; provided formal and informal performance feedback and evaluated staff; and promoted the goals of equal employment opportunity and ensured the office was free of discriminatory employment practices.
• Ability to provide program oversight and administrative management to agency programs and operations. ** The successful candidate has provided a wide range of managerial, analytical, technical, and advisory functions related to the administrative programs within the division. This included: 1) provided oversight for human resources, finance, information technology, facilities management and other services, 2) oversaw and guided short- and long-term strategic planning initiatives, 3) accomplished strategic and organizational goals by ensuring the effective interaction and integration of processes, 4) delegated and managed financial operations, 5) provided operational services in support of workforce planning goals, 6) managed effective and efficient administration of facilities requirements, 7) set performance expectations, 8) provided advice, counseled and training to staff, 9) developed policies and guidelines affecting agency programs, and 10) directed, monitored and participated in outreach initiatives.
• Ability to build and engage coalitions and professional networks in support of mission.  The successful candidate has identified, built, and maintained relationships and professional networks to gain support and commitment from scholars and other learners; the publishing and creative community; and colleagues in the library field. This includes: 1) participating in and representing the institution at professional association meetings; 2) working collaboratively with other departments, agencies and organizations to further agency goals and objectives; 3) establishing cordial relationships with donors and potential donors to obtain additions to Library collections; and 4) working with the archival and research library community to identify trends and issues related to the collections and services of the Library.
• Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing. The successful candidate has the ability to speak clearly, politely, and under control to peers, staff, managers, supervisors, and external audiences to both provide and seek information. This also includes actively listening to and understanding information; and listening to and answering questions thoughtfully and completely.

---

Position: Cataloging and Metadata Coordinator
Location: American University Pence Law Library
Posted: LLSDC
Salary: $33-35/hour

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Full time, Hybrid 01 (On Campus 3-4 Days/Week)

This position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 500 – Provost & Enrollment Division. That means the terms and conditions of your employment are governed by university policy (including the Staff Personnel Policies Manual) and any collective bargaining agreement entered into between American University and SEIU Local 500 – Provost & Enrollment Division.

Summary: The position involves a combination of responsibilities, including coordinating the day-to-day workflow of the Cataloging Department, which encompasses managing electronic resources and cataloging various types of materials. Under the guidance of professional catalogers, the Cataloging Coordinator oversees the lifecycle of electronic resources and ensures ongoing quality control of descriptive bibliographic records and holding information. This involves continually evaluating and correcting catalog data to ensure accuracy, consistency, connectivity, and clarity.

A strong understanding of library systems, preferably Ex Libris Alma, as well as knowledge of metadata standards and e-resource lifecycle management, is essential for this role. The position requires independent judgment, self-direction, and the ability to work with minimal supervision.

The incumbent must adhere to American University and Washington College of Law Human Resources policies and procedures. While this position is primarily on-campus, a temporary hybrid work schedule may be available.

Essential Functions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Cataloging and Bibliographic Maintenance
   • Adhere to departmental procedures and WRLC network zone metadata policies to perform resource description, access, and metadata management.
   • Collaborate with Technical Services librarians to develop, implement, and evaluate cataloging procedures, standards, and workflows.
   • Participate in working groups and projects focused on improving cataloging and e-resource management practices.
2. Cataloging Duties
   • Catalog a variety of library materials, creating and maintaining MARC records in Alma in compliance with current cataloging standards (RDA, AACR2).
   • Edit and update bibliographic, authority, and holdings records to ensure accuracy and consistency across the catalog.
   • Perform batch processing of records to enhance cataloging efficiency.
   • Ensure accurate and comprehensive metadata for all resources, facilitating enhanced discovery and access for library users.
3. Alma System Maintenance
   • Utilize Alma’s cataloging and analytical tools to manage bibliographic, holdings, and item records effectively.
   • Participate in data cleanup projects, including authority control, deduplication, inventory, retention, and migration-related tasks.
   • Assist in streamlining workflows and ensuring data integrity across the cataloging process.
4. Holdings and Collection integrity
   • Collaborate with the Circulation Department and the Specialist for receiving to perform physical processing of print materials, including handling transfers, replacements, and withdrawals of continuation materials.
   • Serve as a backup to the Serials Specialist, assisting with the receipt of continuations and shelving of pocket parts as needed.
   • Create and maintain serials holdings records, address records with no inventories (orphaned records), and ensure accurate maintenance of inventory and the physical collection.
   • Maintain and update library holdings in OCLC WorldCat to ensure accurate reflection of the library’s collection.
   • Provide expedited, on-the-fly processing and delivery of rush materials to WCL faculty and the community.
   • Create provisional records for non-book circulation items to facilitate quick access.
5. Quality Control and Collection Maintenance
   • Ensure that materials are accurately and consistently processed before being made available to the public.
   • Record and compile statistical reports on library resources across all formats.
   • Participate in collection maintenance duties, including weeding and inventory activities, to ensure the collection’s relevance and accuracy.
6. Binding Management
   • Oversee the binding process, including the preparation, delivery, and receipt of bindery shipments.
   • Coordinate binding services for the law review office, ensuring timely processing.
   • Use and maintain the binding function within the library system to efficiently manage materials through the binding process.
   • Process and maintain bound-with item records to ensure accurate tracking and access.
7. Electronic Resource Management
   • Activate electronic resources and test access to ensure functionality.
   • Set up and maintain electronic collections, portfolios, MARC records, and coverage data in Alma and LibGuides, ensuring accurate and timely updates.
   • Troubleshoot and resolve access issues related to electronic resources, working closely with vendors and IT teams.
   • Assist in importing MARC records from OCLC or vendor-provided records for electronic titles.
   • Create conceptual lists of materials to facilitate their discovery and accessibility.
   • Generate statistical reports for analytical and maintenance purposes.
8. System Configuration and Optimization
   • In consultation with Technical Services librarians, configure and optimize Alma for effective e-resource management, including integration with other systems such as Primo, OpenAthens, and DUO authentication.
   • Participate in testing and implementing new features and updates within Alma to enhance e-resources management workflows.
   • Activate and maintain the Central Discovery Index (CDI) to ensure accurate and comprehensive search results for articles and book chapters.
   • Using Alma’s knowledge base, obtain updated bibliographic records and coverage data to ensure that e-resource information is current and accurate.
9. Support and Training
   • Provide support to library staff and patrons in accessing and using electronic resources, addressing issues promptly.
   • Assist in training library staff on best practices for managing electronic resources within the Alma system.
   • Participate in ongoing projects focused on updating and organizing electronic resources.
10. Gov Docs Management
    • Select and load/import bibliographic records for government documents into the library system.
    • Ensure accurate cataloging and metadata for government documents to facilitate discovery and access.
    • Collaborate with the Serials Specialist to receive, organize, and disseminate government documents.
    • Verify shipping lists and receipts against the Law Library’s Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) selection profile to ensure completeness and accuracy.
    • Report any discrepancies in SuDoc classification numbers between labels and GPO records, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the library’s catalog.

Competencies:

• Serving Customers.
• Acquiring and Analyzing Information.
• Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions.
• Driving Continuous Improvement.
• Thinking Broadly.
• Supporting Coworkers.
• Evaluating and Implementing Ideas.
• Prioritizing and Organizing.

Salary Range: $33 – $35 per hour.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree.
• 1-3 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience.

Other Duties:

• Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.
• Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
• Act as backup to Serials Specialist for sorting and delivering mail and performing serial checking in.