Job Description

Position Description

Updated July 15, 2025

Title: Library Cataloging & Preservation Associate

D ivision: Collections, Exhibitions & Research

Reports to: Manager of Library Cataloging

Position Status: Full-time; Non-Exempt

Salary Range/Pay Rate: $16/hour - $20/hour

Whether igniting a passion for the study of the past, empowering an interest in civic engagement, or providing an introduction to the Commonwealth, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture offers meaningful experiences for all. Whatever the role, your work here helps bring Virginia's story-past, present, and future-to life.

If you are curious, creative, and passionate about preserving and sharing Virginia history, your next chapter starts now!

Position Summary:

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) seeks a qualified candidate for the position of Library Cataloging & Preservation Associate, who has an authentic interest in the mission and work of the VMHC. The Library Cataloging & Preservation Associate supports the documentation and discovery of VMHC's published collections through the creation of catalog records, digital content and metadata, and other descriptive data, with a focus on the serials collection. This position also performs preservation measures to prepare published and manuscript collections for storage and public access.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Accession incoming published collections
• Create, edit, and maintain published title and holdings records and subscription files
• Proofread published collections cataloging to ensure adherence to standard practices
• Edit and enhance existing published bibliographic and holdings records and make corrections to existing records in all formats to maintain consistency
• Catalog selected published materials according to AACR2, MARC21 RDA and LC standards; enter articles into OCLC and download into VMHC collections management system
• Prepare collections for stack filing, including creation of labels, bookplates, book jackets, phase boxes and flat files
• Participate in projects and outreach to promote access and enhance knowledge of the published collections and other VMHC resources
• Serve on cross-functional teams and committees
• Assist library staff with reference services and library programming
• Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Necessary:

• Knowledge of United States and Virginia history
• Ability to use office-related computer programs (word processing, database management systems, spreadsheets, email), equipment (printers, photocopiers, scanners, etc.) and web-based search engines
• Knowledge of and ability to apply AACR2, MARC21, RDA and LC standards to create descriptive records
• Ability to lift boxes or various objects of at least 40 pounds
• Attention to detail and accurate data entry skills
• Ability to master operation of board and paper cutters, edge rounders, etc., and to measure accurately
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with colleagues, volunteers, researchers and donors

Education & Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as history, library science, or museum studies, or a combination of education and library experience equivalent to a four-year degree

Notes & Special Requirements:

• Medical, leave, wellness and retirement benefits offered in accordance with company policy.

Application:

• If interested in this job opportunity, please apply and upload your cover letter and resume to

Founded in 1831 as the Virginia Historical Society, the VMHC, a private, non-profit organization, is the oldest museum and cultural organization in Virginia, and one of the oldest and most distinguished history organizations in the United States. The museum cares for a renowned collection of more than nine million items representing the far-reaching story of Virginia.

The Virginia Historical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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