Cataloging & Metadata Librarian - University Libraries

Updated: 3 months ago
Location: Allendale, MICHIGAN
Deadline: ;

Apply now Job no:495087
Position type:FAC - Tenure Track Faculty
Location:Allendale, Michigan
Categories:University Libraries


Summary: Grand Valley State University (GVSU) Libraries are seeking candidates for a Cataloging and Metadata Librarian, a tenure-track faculty position. The position is for an inclusive, user-focused, and collegial librarian. The Cataloging and Metadata Librarian will report to the Head of Systems and Discovery and be located in the Mary Idema Pew Library on the Allendale, MI Campus.

The Cataloging and Metadata Librarian will lead the Libraries’ efforts to enhance and promote the discovery of library resources in all formats. The Cataloging and Metadata Librarian will be responsible for original and copy cataloging, authority control, leading cataloging projects, training others on cataloging functions, and exploring new standards related to bibliographic description. This position will also assist with the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and documentation related to resource discovery and metadata standards.

This position will give the selected candidate the opportunity to:

CREATE— The Cataloging and Metadata Librarian will create records that enable the discovery of library resources and training resources for library staff. They will also identify and implement new and emerging trends, best practices, and models for resource description. 

COLLABORATE— The Cataloging and Metadata Librarian works collaboratively to ensure materials are discoverable in ways that meet the needs of users. They will have opportunities to work with faculty and staff across the Libraries. We invite applicants who have a user-focused, innovative, and creative approach to their work.

GROW— GVSU Librarians are full members of the university faculty with a 12-month appointment. Librarians must possess the potential to fulfill the University Libraries’ requirements for promotion and tenure by engaging in scholarship, professional development, and service to the institution and profession.

In support of this requirement, GVSU and the GVSU Libraries have a culture that encourages professional growth and development. Funding for conference travel and the dissemination of scholarly output is provided by both the Libraries and the University via internal grants. For more information on how GVSU supports travel and scholarship, please see the Pew Faculty Teaching and Learning Center grants page at https://www.gvsu.edu/ftlc/grants-47.htm and the Center for Scholarly and Creative Excellence dissemination travel grant page at https://www.gvsu.edu/csce/dissemination-travel-grant-13.htm .

BELONG— The University Libraries are committed to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. We strive to provide an environment in which all members of the campus community feel welcome, safe, supported, respected, and valued. All library staff and faculty are active in the ongoing work of identifying and eliminating barriers to ensure that all members of the library community are able to fully participate in library spaces and services. We work to ensure that our tools, devices, services, and environments are available and usable by as many people as possible.

DISCOVER more about the benefits GVSU offers by visiting https://gvsu.edu/library/hiring , the GVSU Wellness website (https://www.gvsu.edu/bewellgv ), or the GVSU HR site (https://www.gvsu.edu/hro ). For more information, visit our FAQ: https://gvsu.edu/library/hiring

Required Qualifications:

  • Master of Library Science degree from an accredited ALA-institution, Masters of Archival Studies, or equivalent, by 12/31/2023
  • Demonstrated ability applying current cataloging standards: MARC 21, RDA, AACR2, Library of Congress classification system and subject headings and other thesauri
  • Experience creating original MARC records
  • Experience with bibliographic utilities (e.g., OCLC Connexion) and cataloging in an integrated library system
  • Familiarity with authority records and authority control services
  • Basic knowledge of evolving metadata standards, such as Linked Data and BIBFRAME initiatives
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly verbally & in writing
  • Demonstrated ability to work on detail-oriented tasks
  • Independent problem-solving skills
  • Demonstrated intercultural understanding and awareness required to work in a diverse workplace and serve a diverse population to contribute to a healthy, inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Demonstrated commitment and action to support inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility.
  • Interest in being involved in the profession and scholarly activity

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of the SuDoc classification system
  • Reading or bibliographic knowledge of one or more languages other than English
  • Experience using MARC editing tools (e.g., MarcEdit)
  • Knowledge of current metadata schemas (Dublin Core, MODS, METS, EAD)
  • Demonstrated experience using evolving metadata standards, such as Linked Data and BIBFRAME initiatives

Grand Valley State University Libraries are a recipient of the Association of College and Research Libraries 2012 Excellence in Academic Libraries Award and a member of the ACRL Diversity Alliance. GVSU is a public Doctoral/Professional regional university anchored in Liberal Education. The University is located in west Michigan with campuses in Allendale, Grand Rapids and Holland, plus centers in Muskegon and Traverse City. The University attracts more than 20,000 students with high quality programs and state-of-the-art facilities. The greater Grand Rapids metropolitan area has a population of over one million, is rich in cultural amenities, and within easy driving distance of superb summer and winter recreational venues. 

Salary range: $51,000 - 58,000

How to Apply: A complete application will include: (1) a cover letter addressing how you meet the qualifications, your motivation to work at GVSU, and your commitment to inclusion with examples of addressing diversity, inclusion, and equity in your work, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) contact information of three professional references to contact only after candidate approval, and (4) degree transcripts (unofficial issued to students are acceptable to apply). The online application will allow applicants to attach these documents electronically. The projected start date for this position is April 2024. If you need assistance, call Human Resources at 616-331-2215. 

Questions? Feel free to contact Patrick Roth ([email protected] ), search committee chair.

Application Deadline: The review process will begin on January 7, 2024, and continue until the position is filled. The posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University.


The University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution, consistent with its obligations as a federal contractor. It encourages diversity and provides equal opportunity in education, employment, all of its programs, and the use of its facilities. It is committed to protecting the constitutional and statutory civil rights of persons connected with the University. Members of the University community, including students, employees, faculty, staff, administrators, Board members, consultants, vendors, others engaged to do business with the University, candidates for employment or admissions, and visitors or guests have the right to be free from acts of harassment and discrimination, including sexual misconduct, as defined by this policy. In accordance with applicable federal and state law and this policy, acts of discrimination or harassment by members of the campus community are prohibited if they discriminate or harass on the basis of age, color, disability, familial status, height, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex/gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, veteran or active duty military status or weight. This includes inappropriate limitation of, access to, or participation in educational, employment, athletic, social, cultural, or other university programs and activities. The University will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Limitations are lawful if they are: directly related to a legitimate university purpose, required by law, or lawfully required by a grant or contract between the university and the state or federal government. For the purposes of this policy, sex-/gender-based harassment includes sexual misconduct, sexual assault, interpersonal or relationship violence, and stalking. See www.gvsu.edu/affirmative. TDD Callers: Call Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in State) or 1-800-833-7833 (out of State).

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Advertised:16 Nov 2023 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close:

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