POSITION SUMMARY:
The Hill Museum & Manuscript Library (HMML) invites applications for the full-time, benefit-eligible position of Cataloger of West African Manuscripts. This is a one-year, grant-funded position. The Cataloger will participate in HMML’s effort to catalog recently digitized Islamic manuscripts from Mali and to support the creation of authority files by HMML’s metadata librarian. The Cataloger will do both original cataloging of digital surrogates as well as the correction of existing catalog records, joining the already-existing West African cataloging team and helping to carry out and add to their methods. This position is supervised by the Curator of Eastern Christian and Islamic Manuscripts and reports to the Director of Cataloging.
Founded in 1965, HMML holds the world’s largest archive of manuscript photographs in both microfilm and digital format. HMML identifies manuscript collections around the world that need photographic preservation and online access. Its archives now contain more than 500,000 complete manuscripts, ranging in size from large codices of hundreds of folios to brief documents consisting of just a few leaves. Visit hmml.org to learn more about the places, people and communities that have been part of HMML’s global story, and the manuscripts in HMML’s digital and microfilm collections. Located on the campus of Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota, HMML is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation that contracts with the Order of Saint Benedict (OSB) for employees and employee services. HMML is a cultural heritage institution that welcomes applicants from all religious and cultural backgrounds.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Catalog manuscripts in Arabic and potentially other West African languages according to HMML metadata standards.
• Support the creation of authority files and controlled vocabulary during cataloging.
• Provide expertise when necessary on West African languages, naming practices, and manuscript tradition, including contribution to communications and programming outreach.
• Work closely with HMML staff on relevant aspects of project workflow.
• Submit monthly reports on cataloging.
• Answer patron questions concerning the West African digital manuscript collections.
OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
• Performs other duties as required by the director or supervisor.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Earned doctorate in History, African Studies, Islamic Studies, Arabic Studies, or MLIS equivalent.
• Excellent knowledge of Arabic language and paleography and of Islamic literature in the West African context.
• Native or near native English language proficiency and good communications skills.
• Experience in working with manuscripts or cataloging manuscripts.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office (particularly spreadsheet methodologies), Google Sheets, Google Drive, and other commonly used menu-based software.
• Experience with using digital tools for research in the humanities and ability to understand and work with HMML’s digital platforms and tools.
• Attention to detail; accuracy and thoroughness in work habits; ability to manage multiple, complex tasks; ability to work in a collaborative team environment; and willingness to utilize communications tools to facilitate working remotely with speedy response times.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Knowledge of DCRM(MSS) and AMREMM cataloging standards.
• Knowledge of other West African languages, such as Bambara, Bozo, Songhay, Fulfulde, or Tamashek.
• Experience working with databases and database management.
• Understanding of tools for data manipulation, improvement, and analysis.
• Knowledge of archival or library operations and an appreciation for HMML’s mission of cultural preservation.
Apply Online Here: https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/osb/jobs/5334498/cataloger-west-african-manuscripts
Cataloger, West African Manuscripts
