Columbia University , New York, NY
Requisition Number: 0000803
Field(s) of Specialization:
Position Title: Project Archivist
Department: Libraries (700 - 797)
Department Number: 700-795,036,208
Location: Morningside
Summary Description: The Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library is searching for an experienced project archivist to process project records and architectural drawings of the Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx. This position will be funded for 6 months with the possibility of extension. Funding begins on the selectee's start date. The Drawings and Archives consist of more than 1 million architectural drawings, photographs, manuscripts, and other archives. The dept. is part of the Avery Library, a leading research library on architecture, historic preservation, art history, painting, sculpture, graphic arts, decorative arts, city planning, real estate, and archaeology. The Library contains more than 450,000 volumes and receives approximately 1,000 periodicals.
The Woodlawn Cemetery Archive (roughly 800 linear ft) is the single largest donation to the Drawings and Archives, Avery Library. It contains more than 1,300 free-standing mausoleums designed by the leading architects from the post-Civil War era through the Gilded Age. As the preeminent burial ground for prominent New Yorkers of that period, the Cemetery archive contains incredible documentation of historical figures and the architects who worked for them.
Processing of the Woodlawn Cemetery Archive has been ongoing since early 2007 and several series have been completed. For info on the status see http://www.columbia.edu/.../avery/da/woodlawn.html . Working under the supervision of the Curator of Drawings and Archives, the Project Archivist will sort, arrange, and describe documents in preparation of an on-line finding aid of the collection for research use. The series relating to photographs and correspondence will be the main focus of this grant period, other materials will be processed as required.
Working under the supervision of the Curator of Drawing and Archives, the Project Archivist will be responsible for:
*Processing of correspondence, foundation orders, deeds, and architectural drawings of the Cemetery including ordering of projects, description of drawings by title, date, associated architects, genres, among other metadata, and coordinating drawings with archival materials. Includes preparing materials for transport and storage to offsite facility.
*Processing of photographs of the Cemetery, including ordering of files, description of contents, re-housing as necessary, and coordinating archival materials with architectural drawings. Will work closely with Woodlawn staff to identify photographs. Includes preparing materials for transport and storage to offsite facility.
*Arranging and describing architectural collections in an electronic database following DACS and other emerging standards. Includes searching, authority work, description & subject analysis.
*Assigning, revising, and training support staff and students to provide assistance with tasks above, including inputting, processing, and research in archival files. Other duties as assigned.
One of the world's leading research universities, Columbia provides outstanding opportunities to work and grow in a unique intellectual community. Set in the Morningside Heights academic village, Columbia also presents the unmatched dynamism, diversity and cultural richness of New York City. The University Libraries, grounded in collections of remarkable depth and breadth, are also building extensive electronic resources and services. The Libraries at Columbia are committed to collegiality, professionalism, innovation and leadership.
We offer a salary commensurate with qualifications and experience and excellent benefits including 100% Columbia tuition exemption for self and family and assistance with University housing. Columbia will also pay 50% tuition for your dependent child who is a candidate for an undergraduate degree at another accredited college or university.
School/Institute/Unit: Libraries
Minimum Degree Required: MLS or PhD or equivalent
Minimum Qualifications:
All applicants MUST meet these minimum qualifications to be considered for the position.
= ALA accredited M.L.S. with formal course work in archives administration or an M.A. in archival management, and two years related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
= The incumbent must have thorough knowledge of archival processing and preservation theories and procedure; working knowledge of Microsoft Excel; ability to work effectively, both independently and as a member or a team; ability to combine accuracy and efficiency; organizational and supervisory skills; proven interpersonal skills; working knowledge of historic American architectural practice and standards.
= Must be able to lift and carry heavy boxes and must be able to climb ladders.
Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of American and New York social history desirable.
Posting Date: 09-25-2009
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
EEO Statement Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.
Date Review Begins 10-26-2009
See: https://academicjobs.columbia.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1254267379582
