Missouri Valley Special Collections - Project Associate chez KANSAS CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Description

Reporting to the Missouri Valley Special Collections Manager and working under the supervision of the Special Collections' Senior Archivist, this position is responsible for cataloging/inventorying photographs and other archival material from the Kansas City Call newspaper, conducting basic preservation, digitizing select materials, and responding to reference requests related to the collection. 

This is a one year, full-time non-exempt position with an hourly rate of $20.05, plus excellent benefits. Position is open until filled. 

Schedule

Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 5 pm

Location

Central Library: 14 W 10th Street, KCMO, 64105. 

Job Duties (Essential Functions)

1. Conduct a detailed inventory of 144 boxes of records and 148 bound volumes of newspapers documenting people, places, and events represented in the collection, as well as date coverage.
2. Draft a summary report identifying strengths of the collection and particular items of interest. 
3. Identify any preservation concerns and work with the senior archivist to address them.
4. Sleeve, folder, and label material.
5. Digitize select materials for use in articles, displays, and social media posts. 
6. Respond to internal and external references requests related to The Call collection.

Requirements

1. Comfortable working independently with little supervision yet also in taking and following instruction from others.
2. Demonstrated ability to interact successfully with staff and the public.
3. Intermediate writing skills.
4. Intermediate computer skills: Microsoft Office Suite.
5. Able to lift 30 pounds and climb a step ladder.
6. Ability to speak and understand English is required, additional consideration will be given to individuals that are proficient in any non-English languages used in Jackson County, MO including Spanish, American Sign Language, Vietnamese, French, Arabic, and Swahili.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in history or related field. 
• Experience working with archival material and conducting historical research preferred.
• Experience digitizing material preferred.
• Ability to write descriptions, summaries, and short articles preferred.
• Knowledge of Kansas City’s African American history preferred.

Work Environment

Work is performed at the Central Library and also at an offsite storage facility. Primary workspace is shared with co-workers in an office environment.

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.

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions and job requirements of the position satisfactorily. If requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship.

How to Apply

Please apply for this position through our web application system. We only accept applications for specific currently open positions made through our online system. Access the online application from the job listing on the Job Opportunities page. The application system allows you to attach a document (such as a cover letter or a resume) to your application (10MB limit per document). When you submit your application, an acknowledgement will be sent to the email address you provided. You are welcome to apply for as many positions as you wish. However, to minimize problems, close and restart your browser between each application. 

All online Application for Employment forms must be completely filled out. For technical assistance, call 816.701.3712.

Kansas City Public Library is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.