Librarian, Rare Books; Assistant or Associate - University of Arizona - Tucson, AZ

Librarian, Rare Books (Assistant or Associate) -- University of Arizona -- Tucson, AZ

The University of Arizona Libraries seeks an innovative, collaborative, and user-centered Rare Books librarian to join the Curatorial Unit within Special Collections.

The Rare Books Librarian will play a key role in advancing Special Collections’ book collection development program. This position encompasses responsibilities in collection development, instruction, reference, exhibitions, and events. The Rare Books Librarian will manage and coordinate all aspects of Special Collections’ book acquisitions, including activities related to cataloging, space management, preservation, and ongoing collection maintenance. In collaboration with the Public Services Unit Lead, this position will also contribute to the planning and execution of Special Collections exhibitions and events, as well as assist with tours and outreach initiatives.

The successful candidate will work closely with colleagues across the University Libraries and with other units within Special Collections to support the University’s teaching, learning, and research mission.

Established in 1958, Special Collections collects rare and unique photos, documents, books, film, video and audio recordings, and other primary source materials. Special Collections is a repository and cultural heritage institution that is part of Arizona’s land‑grant university. We steward materials to mirror who is here, amplify voices, expand our historical record, and create opportunities for new research. Learn more about What We Collect here.

This is a continuing‑eligible or continuing status track, academic professional position. Incumbents are members of the general faculty and are entitled to all accompanying rights and privileges granted by the Arizona Board of Regents and the University of Arizona. Retention and promotion are earned through achievement of a record of excellence in position effectiveness, scholarship, and service.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; accessto UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work‑life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please visit talent.arizona.edu.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES

• Acquire, appraise, and preserve collections of primary and significant research value, especially rare books.
• In partnership with the Unit Lead, manage and coordinate all aspects of Special Collections’ book acquisitions.
• Identify and engage with existing and prospective book vendors and donors as well as other curatorial area donors as appropriate.
• In collaboration with Preservation Technician and the Collections Management Archivist, recommend, develop, and prioritize treatment, preservation and housing solutions, with a focus on book collections.
• Participate in, consult on, and evaluate potential donations and purchases with other members of the curatorial unit.
• Liaise with Collections Services Department to provide guidance on original cataloging and to work on book acquisition and receiving workflows. In collaboration with other members of Special Collections, participates in activities and issues related to space, preservation, and collections maintenance.
• Coordinate and document the workflows around the acquisition of purchased and donated purchased book and manuscript collections and donated book collections.
• Contribute to Special Collections’ rare books education, course‑related instruction and other specialized educational sessions to students, the community and other primary customers. Develop and prepare appropriate instructional and educational aids.
• Contribute to Reading Room staffing and respond to reference inquiries on‑site and offsite through telephone, mail, and e‑mail.
• Curate and prepare exhibits of Special…