Librarian, Head of Library + Archives - Walker Art Center

The Walker Art Center empowers people to experience the transformative possibilities of the art and ideas of our time and to imagine the world in new ways. In our over 125-year history, we have become one of the most celebrated art museums in the country and we are known for our innovative presentations and acclaimed collections of contemporary art across the spectrum of the visual, performing, and media arts.

The Head of the Library and Archives leads the department, managing resources, and providing vision for the development, maintenance and accessibility of the collections. As the Librarian, this role provides support to curators, programmers, and Walker staff, by assisting with research, collaborating on projects, and building and making available relevant resources. 

WHAT WE NEED IN YOU 

Operations

• Manage operations and staff of Walker research resources, including Archives, Library, and Visual Resources
• Collaborate on the development and implementation of workflows, policies, and procedures to catalog efficiently and effectively incoming and backlog special collections materials.
• Operate the library’s daily transactions such as fulfilling research requests, collection circulation, interlibrary loans, and subscriptions.
• Plan and execute library public engagement efforts in partnership with internal and external stakeholders.
• Acquire books, journals and special collection materials through purchase, donation, and library exchange for all subject areas of the library, aligning with Walker programming.
• Manage the care, handling, and growth of the Rosemary Furtak Collection of Artists’ Books, in alignment with the Library Acquisition Plan.
• Stay current in national and international developments in special collections librarianship and cataloging.  
• Maintain and develop connections with book artists, dealers, and collectors.
• Attend artist book fairs.
• Curate exhibitions and manage loans from the collection.
• Promote the library through exhibits, articles, lectures and other educational opportunities, on a local and national level.
• Manage and schedule appropriate volunteer coverage.
• Manage library systems including catalogue, barcoding, and documentation of library holdings.
• Manage budgets and expenses for the department.
• Partner with the Development and Membership department for necessary departmental funding.

Collection Curation

Departmental Leadership and Other Duties

• Work in close collaboration with key stakeholders and leaders to represent the Library and Archives department. Create and implement departmental initiatives aligning with the institutional strategic plan.
• As an inspiring and practical manager, the Head of Library and Archives is highly skilled at mentoring and motivating their direct reports by providing training, support, and guidance.
• Hire, train, and supervise Cataloging Librarian, Archivist, Visual Resources Specialist, Interns, and volunteers.
• Lead and/or actively participate in regular meetings with the Director of Collections and Exhibitions regarding departmental initiatives.
• Engage and support Walker leaders, curators, and staff; Board of Trustees; and committee chairs and members in research activities.
• Participate in and facilitate training, conferences, and professional development as applicable.
• Participate in institutional events, meetings, and forums such as in All-managers meetings and other cross-departmental work teams, all-staff meetings, and public life.

Education: 

• Masters in Library Science (MLS or MLIS) from an American Library Association accredited program required.

 Experience: 

• Minimum of 5 years working experience in a library with a minimum of 2 years working in an art library or special collections

•  1-2 years supervisory experience.
• Experience managing public engagement efforts in alignment with programming.
• Record of engagement with professional groups and activities and/or contributions to the profession.

Skills: 

• Experience providing excellent interpersonal communication to a variety of audiences through several channels including written and verbal correspondence.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct thorough research and manage multiple projects, simultaneously.
• Must have a strong command of current best practices in the methods, techniques of library cataloging (RDA, NACO, BibFrame linked data, etc.), classification, and operating standards.
• Familiarity with technological systems, and emerging trends related to the management of libraries and special collections.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively on team projects.
• Knowledge of art history, media and performing arts subject area.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working at a computer
• Ability to work in a quiet environment
• Requires concentration for extended periods but also must be able to handle interruptions
• Ability to ascend and descend a ladder
• Must be able to bend, crouch, and reach for objects above the shoulders

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position; they do not purport to describe all functions of the role. All Walker role descriptions allow for potential career growth through broadening accountabilities. Other duties may be assigned and/or the essential functions of the position may change or be changed.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS This position is considered full-time (35 hours per week), exempt. As a exempt  position, it is eligible for overtime pay. The {{minimum}} compensation for this role is $65,000 annually. The Walker offers a wide range of benefits for both part-time and full-time employees.

This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.

All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.   

Walker’s DEI commitment The Walker is committed to being an employer with a staff who, at all job levels, reflects the rich diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We are dedicated to ensuring inclusion and equity in all our employment practices. We deeply value and welcome all the unique lived experiences in our applicants and encourage anyone meeting the minimum requirements to apply.

Recruitment Timeline All positions are open until filled.