Job Description: Special Collections Librarian

Position: Special Collections Librarian
Department: Library and Information Science > Librarianship
Reports to: Library Director

Job Summary:
The Special Collections Librarian is responsible for overseeing and managing the specialized collections within the library, including rare books, manuscripts, archives, and other unique materials. This role involves collection development, cataloging, preservation, reference services, and promoting the use of special collections materials for academic research and public access.

Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain the special collections inventory, ensuring proper acquisition, organization, and cataloging of rare books, manuscripts, archives, and other unique materials.
- Collaborate with the library staff, faculty, and external partners to identify potential donations, acquisitions, and opportunities to expand the special collections.
- Create and maintain accurate records, metadata, and finding aids for all special collections items, ensuring discoverability and accessibility through the library's catalog and other appropriate platforms.
- Implement preservation strategies, including proper storage, environmental control, conservation, and digitization of fragile materials, to ensure long-term accessibility and preservation of the collections.
- Provide reference services and support to researchers, faculty, students, and the general public regarding the special collections, including assisting with research inquiries, identifying relevant materials, and promoting their use.
- Collaborate with faculty and other stakeholders to integrate special collections materials into teaching, learning, and research activities, including developing instructional sessions, exhibits, and other outreach initiatives.
- Stay abreast of current trends, technologies, and best practices in special collections librarianship and apply them to enhance access, discovery, and engagement with the collections.
- Participate in professional development activities, conferences, and workshops to further enhance knowledge and skills in special collections librarianship.

Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Master's degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited institution.
- Demonstrated knowledge of special collections librarianship principles, practices, and standards.
- Strong understanding of archival principles, descriptive standards (such as DACS and EAD), and metadata schemas (such as MARC and Dublin Core).
- Proficiency in using library management systems, cataloging tools, and other relevant software for managing and providing access to special collections materials.
- Familiarity with preservation techniques, including knowledge of archival materials, handling practices, and conservation methods.
- Excellent research, reference, and information literacy skills, with the ability to assist researchers in locating and interpreting information from a variety of sources.
- Strong organization and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including faculty, students, researchers, and donors.
- Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in library services and programs.
- Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing technologies and evolving needs in special collections librarianship.

Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the Special Collections Librarian position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties, or responsibilities.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

[Recipient's Name]
[Recipient's Job Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am writing to express my keen interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As an accomplished Special Collections Librarian with a passion for Library and Information Science, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your organization's success and make a positive impact on your special collections initiatives.

Throughout my [X] years of experience in librarianship, I have continuously thrived in the dynamic environment of special collections. My strong background and enthusiasm for preserving and promoting unique materials have allowed me to excel in managing diverse collections, from rare books to manuscripts, photographs, and artworks. By leveraging my expertise in cataloging, preservation, and outreach, I have successfully organized and curated numerous exhibitions, events, and workshops to engage a wide range of audiences.

One of my most notable achievements includes spearheading a project to digitize and make accessible a previously unexplored collection of historical documents. By collaborating with cross-functional teams and implementing best practices in digital preservation, I was able to enhance the visibility and usability of these valuable resources, ultimately expanding the institution's reach and impact. This experience has solidified my belief in the transformative power of special collections and their ability to inspire research, creativity, and curiosity among diverse communities.

Beyond my technical skills, I bring a genuine passion for fostering lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity. I am committed to creating inclusive and accessible spaces where individuals from all backgrounds can explore and engage with historical artifacts. By developing innovative programming and employing user-centered approaches, I have successfully attracted new patrons and fostered an environment that encourages exploration, research, and discovery.

Furthermore, my strong communication and interpersonal skills have allowed me to build meaningful relationships with donors, scholars, and community stakeholders. I possess a proven track record of securing grants, donations, and sponsorships to support collection development, preservation, and educational initiatives. Through my collaborative nature and ability to effectively convey the value of special collections, I have cultivated partnerships both within and beyond the library community, thus expanding the institution's reach and impact.

I am truly excited about the opportunity to join the esteemed team at [Company Name] and contribute to your vision of preserving and promoting knowledge through special collections. I am confident that my passion, energy, and expertise make me an ideal candidate for this role. Thank you for considering my application.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and provide any additional information you may require. Please find my enclosed resume for your review. I look forward to the possibility of meeting with you to discuss how I can contribute to the success of [Company Name].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]