Conservation Librarian / Assistant Book and Paper Conservator

Summary

The Conservation Librarian is responsible for the conservation of bound books, maps, documents, and other materials in the library's special collections unit. The Conservation Librarian also coordinates with other conservation and library staff to support the care, use, and exhibition of special collections.

You will report directly to the Head of Conservation, who reports to the Director of Preservation Services, Physical Collections.

You may supervise temporary / hourly assistants and interns.

What You'll Do

75% Conservation Treatment. Plan, document, and perform conservation treatments on materials held in the library's rare and special collections. Scope of expertise is bound books and works on paper, including prints, drawings, maps, and manuscripts, but may have related expertise in the conservation of photographic materials, documents on parchment or papyrus, or other library / archive materials. Examines and executes analytical tests on collection materials and helps inform curatorial staff and researchers on their physical makeup or the technology of production. Design and construct protective enclosures and exhibit supports. Document examinations and treatments in writing and by digital photography. Expertise is based on specialized training that leads to knowledge of the materials science and chemistry of paper and other writing materials; the history of binding, paper, printing, and manuscripts; and current conservation theory and practice.

15% Research, Outreach, and Service. Stay informed on current book and paper conservation issues and practices through professional reading, conferences, workshops, or similar activities, and share the acquired knowledge with colleagues. Contribute to the conservation field through service, research, writing, presentations, or teaching. Collaborate with colleagues within the department and across the library.

You may organize and present workshops in areas of expertise for the department, library, or external audiences. Engage in outreach to the campus, local, and regional cultural heritage community and serve as an expert resource. Answer conservation-related questions from library staff, the campus community, and the public; assist in tours of the lab.

10% Preservation Management. Work with curators in special collections to help preserve the collections and to select items for conservation treatment. Advise library staff on the condition of collections, collection storage, handling, and exhibition; perform on-site inspections, recommend appropriate action, and assist with their implementation. Conduct condition surveys of collections. Design and execute special conservation projects, including the conservation aspects of exhibits, digitization, and loan preparations. Help provide disaster recovery services for library materials.

You may train and manage the work of others, such as student assistants, interns, volunteers, or staff from other units, or on a project basis. Help the department develop standards, procedures, and the selection of materials used in the repair of both rare and non-rare library materials. Contribute to the maintenance of the conservation lab; prepare materials used for conservation; monitor supply needs; maintain specialized equipment and security for valuable library materials; and understand and follow safe laboratory practices.

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family, and plan for a secure future. Benefits include :

• Generous time off
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Required Qualifications

Physical Demands / Work Environment

Work must be completed onsite in a book and paper laboratory and several library buildings. The position cannot be done remotely. This role moves and transports materials that weigh up to 40 pounds. The role follows established safety procedures for working with chemicals, mold, and light shop machinery.

Modes of Work

Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change. Learn more about the