Book Conservator
Stanford University
About this position
Position Description
Stanford University Libraries is seeking a full-time Book Conservator to join the Preservation department. The Libraries values are rooted in a commitment of mutual respect, the idea that every member of the staff has something to contribute, and that learning is constant. We seek a team member who is ready to share their skills and perspectives. About Stanford Libraries: Stanford University Libraries is a network of over 15 libraries with over 400 employees. We are committed to fueling the teaching, learning and research across Stanford by acquiring, stewarding, and making available a robust collection, currently in excess of 12 million items. Everyone in the organization plays a vital role in fulfilling that objective. Our dedication to discoverability and information management also has us engaged in dynamic global partnerships. We are constantly building and strengthening our organization, and we recognize striving for excellence is a marathon and not a sprint. We are constantly trying to strike the right pace, and admit there are times when we find ourselves at a fast jog. While we hope to always find candidates who fit within our organization, what we truly seek is someone who will add to our culture, our profession as well as the greater academic arena. We are invested in the success of our teams and the individuals who represent Stanford University Libraries. About Stanford Libraries Preservation Department: Stanford Libraries Preservation Department manages the long-term preservation of analog library collections. The department is dedicated to promoting a culture of preservation throughout Stanford Libraries. We support teaching and research by connecting library staff to Preservation staff, services, and resources. We preserve library materials at every stage of the collection lifecycle through a robust program of preventive collection care, conservation services and preservation education. Through the complementary teamwork of two units, Collection Care and Conservation Services, the Preservation department stabilizes, repairs, houses, and prepares analog library collections for storage, use, digitization, and exhibition. As one of five departments in Technical and Access Services, Preservation works closely with units across the library organization to manage the thoughtful stewardship of library resources. About the Position: Reporting to the Head of Conservation Services, the Book Conservator is a member of a collaborative team of 6 conservators and conservation technicians in a dynamic library conservation laboratory. You will be responsible for conservation assessment, treatment, and documentation of paper-based archival and library collections. You will have opportunities to contribute knowledge of a wide array of paper and parchment-based library collections through active consultation with colleagues throughout the library in support of teaching, digitization, exhibition, and research use. You will create and share conservation treatment reports, assessments, and other documentation via the Stanford Digital Repository, our integrated library system, and other collaborative platforms beyond the Stanford Libraries. You will collaborate on technical, imaging, and scientific projects with internal stake holders, service providers, and the broader scholarly community. This position is based at the Stanford Redwood City campus with work on Stanford’s Historic campus as needed. Core Duties*: · Under general supervision of Head of Conservation Services, provide conservation treatment and stabilization for special collections, rare, and locked stacks collection materials. · Work in consultation with curators, subject specialists, and other Preservation staff on matters related to conservation treatment options and decision making. · Evaluate collection materials through survey and assessment for potential treatment, project development or physical condition. · Provide support for collection items going on external loan including condition reporting, photo-documentation, and specialized housing. · Create written and photographic documentation for treatments, exhibition loans, and other activities. · Track collections, preserve documentation, and compile statistics using departmental tools, software, and applications including Google Drive, Filemaker Pro, and Adobe Creative Suite. · Make specialized housings and enclosures for special collections, rare, and locked stacks materials for the Stanford University Library. · Liaise with outside vendors to meet specifications, order supplies, and ensure quality/working condition of materials, tools and equipment in use. · May train internal staff including temporary, casual and project staff in enclosures, conservation repair, and exhibit preparation practices and participate in training sessions for staff throughout the libraries. · Participate in tours of the department, university classes, and other events to share information about book conservation, book history, departmental activities, and professional topics. * - Other duties may also be assigned The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Education and Experience: · Master’s degree or advanced certificate from a recognized conservation training program with demonstrated understanding of the conservation of rare books in academic libraries or a combination of education and relevant experience. · Minimum three years of experience as a book conservator in a research library conservation lab. Desired Education and Experience: · Experience managing conservation projects including organizing workflow, selection and documentation. · Experience training interns or other unit staff. · Supervision of other staff and interns. Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: · Broad understanding of conservation theory and practice and its application in a research library. · Knowledge of binding techniques, history of the book, and structural developments of book materials. · Knowledge of the physical and chemical mechanisms of deterioration in library materials. · Knowledge of conservation ethics and practices relevant to research library materials. · Demonstrated ability developing efficient and sound treatment procedures, including evaluation, assessment, and documentation; determining workflow, production levels, and quality control standards; and ensuring compliance with health and safety guidelines. · Strong organizational skills. · Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team member. · Excellent manual dexterity and critical judgement. · Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively across a diverse organization. Other Relevant Knowledge, Skills and Abilities May Include: · Knowledge of photo-documentation techniques with digital cameras, imaging and editing software, and other technical equipment. Physical Requirements: Constantly sit, perform desk-based computer tasks. Frequently twist/bend/stoop/squat, grasps lightly/fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, sort/file paperwork or parts, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds. Occasionally stand/walk, reach/work above shoulders, writing by hand, kneel/crawl, climb (ladders, scaffolds, or other). Rarely use a telephone, operate hand controls. Must be able to push and maneuver a fully-loaded cart weighing up to 650 pounds that requires an initial push force up to 50 pounds. * - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job. Working Conditions: May work in confined spaces and at heights 4-10 feet; be exposed to dust and mold; work extended hours, evenings and weekends. Work Standards: Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations. Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu. Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law The expected pay range for this position is $99,395 to $119,658 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs. At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. Why Stanford is for You: Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with: ● Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, and course auditing. Join a TedTalk, watch a film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak. ● A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources. ● A healthier you. Choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We provide excellent health care benefits. ● Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums. ● Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more. Additional Information Schedule: Full-time Job Code: 1782 Employee Status: Regular Grade: H Requisition ID: 108864 Work Arrangement : Hybrid Eligible
Qualifications
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Education and Experience: · Master’s degree or advanced certificate from a recognized conservation training program with demonstrated understanding of the conservation of rare books in academic libraries or a combination of education and relevant experience. · Minimum three years of experience as a book conservator in a research library conservation lab. Desired Education and Experience: · Experience managing conservation projects including organizing workflow, selection and documentation. · Experience training interns or other unit staff. · Supervision of other staff and interns. Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: · Broad understanding of conservation theory and practice and its application in a research library. · Knowledge of binding techniques, history of the book, and structural developments of book materials. · Knowledge of the physical and chemical mechanisms of deterioration in library materials. · Knowledge of conservation ethics and practices relevant to research library materials. · Demonstrated ability developing efficient and sound treatment procedures, including evaluation, assessment, and documentation; determining workflow, production levels, and quality control standards; and ensuring compliance with health and safety guidelines. · Strong organizational skills. · Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team member. · Excellent manual dexterity and critical judgement. · Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively across a diverse organization. Other Relevant Knowledge, Skills and Abilities May Include: · Knowledge of photo-documentation techniques with digital cameras, imaging and editing software, and other technical equipment. Physical Requirements: Constantly sit, perform desk-based computer tasks. Frequently twist/bend/stoop/squat, grasps lightly/fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, sort/file paperwork or parts, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds. Occasionally stand/walk, reach/work above shoulders, writing by hand, kneel/crawl, climb (ladders, scaffolds, or other). Rarely use a telephone, operate hand controls. Must be able to push and maneuver a fully-loaded cart weighing up to 650 pounds that requires an initial push force up to 50 pounds. * - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job. Working Conditions: May work in confined spaces and at heights 4-10 feet; be exposed to dust and mold; work extended hours, evenings and weekends. Work Standards: Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations. Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu. Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law The expected pay range for this position is $99,395 to $119,658 per annum. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs. At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. Why Stanford is for You: Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with: ● Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, and course auditing. Join a TedTalk, watch a film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak. ● A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources. ● A healthier you. Choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We provide excellent health care benefits. ● Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums. ● Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more.
Job Location
🔍 University Libraries, Redwood City, California, United States