Ruth Falcon Papers Temporary Processing Archivist, University Library

About the Department

The Ruth Falcon Papers Temporary Processing Archivist will arrange, describe, and prepare for access to the papers of Ruth Falcon (1946–2020), internationally renowned opera singer and voice teacher.  

The Temporary Processing Archivist will be responsible for surveying the collection, developing an arrangement plan, rehousing materials, and creating a finding aid in accordance with professional archival standards to ensure long-term preservation and access. The archivist will also curate and oversee an exhibit of highlights from the collection. This position is limited to the term of the project.

Position Duties

• Inventory collection and develop processing plan.
• Arrange and describe the collection using DACS standards and prepare a finding aid. 
• Rehouse materials into archival-quality containers; identify and flag fragile or at-risk items for preservation attention. 
• Create an online finding aid on ArchiveSpace and upload archival objects.
• Collaborate with archivists on metadata standards, processing priorities, and project timeline.
• Identify audiovisual and digital media for potential reformatting or preservation needs. 
• Collaborate with Outreach Librarian to highlight the collection’s research value.
• Curate and oversee an exhibit showcasing selected materials from the collection. 
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum Master’s degree in Library/Information Science from an ALA-accredited program, or equivalent advanced degree with archival coursework/experience.
• Demonstrated experience processing personal papers or archival collections. 
• Knowledge of archival standards (e.g. DACS) and archival management systems. 
• Familiarity with preservation concerns for paper, photographs, and audiovisual formats. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively. Ability to complete projects on deadline.  
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively and cooperatively with faculty, staff, students, and researchers.  
• Demonstrated experience working in  a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment or commitment to do so.  

Additional Desirable Qualifications     

• Experience with performing arts or music-related collections. 
• Experience with digitization and exhibit preparation. 
• Knowledge of copyright and privacy issues related to personal papers. 
• Familiarity with ArchivesSpace or similar collection management software.  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodations.