Special Collections Manager- The School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Duties

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago is currently seeking a detailed oriented professional that will participate in and support the curatorial, instructional, access, and preservation functions of the Flaxman Library?s Special Collections program.  This individual will assist the Special Collections Librarian in all aspects of collections management. In the absence of the Librarian, the Special Collections Manager will assume responsibility for daily operations, including management of facilities and collections (both physical and digital) and interactions with students, faculty, staff, researchers, and other visitors to the collections.Under the supervision of the Special Collections Librarian, the Special Collections Manager will represent the School and the Flaxman Library in presenting our resources to all types of visitors, on site and online. As directed, will work with colleagues throughout the campus and the external art, library, and archival communities to develop, maintain, and promote our collections and programs, in furtherance of the School?s goals and interests.  Assist with care of irreplaceable collections and materials, in a high-use educational environment. Contribute significantly to assigned digital library and cataloging projects, working in close cooperation with relevant staff at the School and the Museum, as necessary to complete assignments.

Qualifications

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE: Bachelor?s degree in an art- or design-related field; advanced degree preferred. One or more years of relevant work experience in a library, archive, museum, gallery, or other collection-based setting. Demonstrable knowledge of contemporary art practices based in artists? books, archives, exhibitions, and/or publishing. Understanding of basic principles of preservation and handling for works of art and archival materials; Understanding of basic cataloging and metadata standards.  Good organizational and communication skills.  Proficiency using standard office software and hardware, web services, and networked environments. Ability to work effectively within a team or independently.  High commitment to customer service;  Must be able to routinely lift up to 50 pounds.Preferred
Teaching, curating, and/or publishing experience;
Experience with digital library workflows and standards;
Experience with scanning software and digital scanners, and related peripheral devices;
Experience with widely-used library systems and software such as OCLC, CONTENTdm, Voyager, or others;
Involvement in planning and execution of (on site and/or online) exhibitions;
Supervisory experience.