Specialist III - Wallach Division of Art, Prints, and Photographs

The Specialist III will support a welcoming and inclusive researcher experience, and play a key role in advancing new ideas for instruction and spearhead collection research related to works held in the Wallach Division, with a focus on the Print and Spencer Collections.

Responsibilities:

• Provide excellent, patron-forward research and reference assistance to patrons in the reading room and remotely
• Assist training other staff on best practice handling of materials
• Serve as department point person for Aeon operations and standards
• Retrieve and serve special collection materials for public service, fellowships, instruction, exhibition support, curricula and other NYPL events and initiatives
• Prepare all print materials for internal movements including loans, digitization, short term displays, conservation and exhibitions and serve as primary liaison with Collection Management to track all movement of objects from the department
• Ensure that movement of works in and out of the Division is documented in the Division’s database of record
• Collaborate with the Curator of Prints to identify collection items requiring conservation treatment and to develop public outreach initiatives, including classes, research newsletters, blog posts, and LibGuides

Required Education & Certifications:

• M.A. in Art History
• Demonstrated knowledge of Art History and Visual Studies through academic background, training, interest or expertise

Required Experience:

• Experience providing welcoming and expert public service, reference or customer service in a library or similar setting
• Experience with proper handling and housing/ storage of original art works
• Experience with research authority databases, including institutional catalogs, and primary source material
• Expertise in prints and artists’ books, including technical identification experience
• Ability to identify works in need of conservation treatment

Benefits:

• Core Values: Be Helpful, Be Resourceful, Be Curious, Be Welcoming and Inclusive
• Work Environment: Public service library, Office setting, Interoffice travel
• Physical Duties: Light lifting up to 15 lbs required, Sitting and standing for periods of time, Daily use of a computer