Ville : Hamilton

Catégorie : Other

Industrie : Education

Employeur : McMaster University

Hamilton, ON
 
Unit/Department Description:
 
McMaster University Library is seeking a knowledgeable and dedicated conservator to fill the position of Archives and Book Conservator in the William Ready Division of Archives and Research Collections, the Library’s principal repository for rare books, archives, antiquarian maps, and related historical material. The incumbent will work with our current Conservator, as well as a team of Librarians and other staff, to care for these world-renowned collections. Among the initial priorities for this position will be to plan and undertake a condition inspection of our 30,000-volume rare book collection; to liaise with our Digitization Centre to ensure the safe-handing of materials to be digitized; to undertake environmental monitoring of our stacks; and to undertake repairs and re-housing of rare books and archives. Those who join McMaster will find a community of talented individuals who are inspired by the university’s commitment to embodying the values of integrity, quality, inclusiveness, and teamwork.
 
General Description:
 
Responsible for the conservation and preservation of archives, rare books, and other collections held by the Library. Plans and implements complex conservation treatments based upon an examination and analysis of materials, structure, and the physical condition of library collections. Provides advice on the long-term conservation and preservation of library collections in a variety of formats and materials.
 
Representative Duties & Responsibilities: Make recommendations for conservation treatments and preservation methods based on a synthesis of experience and information obtained from examining and testing archival and library materials. Develop treatment strategies for items in an advanced state of deterioration and for items of a delicate nature. Plan and implement conservation treatments on rare and valuable items and collections Determine the type of maintenance and maintenance schedule needed to optimally preserve items within a collection. Modify and adapt existing conservation practices and techniques to solve varied and unique conservation challenges. Search and gather information pertaining to specific treatment techniques for obscure and rare materials and items. Create or update documentation on items needing conservation treatments or currently undergoing such treatments. Ensure that other staff are aware of items that are unavailable for research use while undergoing treatment. Write condition reports outlining the materials and structure of books, archives and other items, methods of fabrication, and the location and extent of any existing damage, chemical deterioration, or previous repairs. Write treatment proposals outlining options for treatment, procedures to be used, and estimates of time and cost. Write reports, incorporating photographs documenting the stages of treatment. Ensure that such reports are filed and maintained for future reference. Write various surveys including, but not limited to, condition surveys and needs assessment surveys. Summarize and clarify preservation information, research, analysis, instructions, and results in non-technical terms. Design and build custom boxes and other storage enclosures for rare and unique items. Design tool modifications that facilitate unique preservation work being completed. Measure and mix chemicals to make solutions used for preserving items in a collection. Understand the effects of light, relative humidity, and temperature on organic, hygroscopic, inorganic, and volatile or toxic substances. Monitor environmental conditions within the archive’s facility using preservation equipment including, but not limited to, data loggers, psychrometers, hygrographs, and thermohygrographs. Calibrate preservation equipment according to established guidelines and procedures, including the use of a motor blown psychrometer, slide rule and other devices. Monitor and advise on the safe storage of collection items. Provide recommendations for special handling or use of the item to ensure preservation. Examine and assess condition of items to be used in exhibitions or displays and provide advice on their stability for exhibit and how they can be displayed safely. Provide support for exhibitions by completing various tasks including, but not limited to, creating mounts and displays. Respond to emergencies involving damage or potential damage to rare books, archival material and other collections requiring decisions on damage prevention or salvage options for collection materials. Identify and source materials and resources required for treatment and storage and communicate those needs to appropriate staff for consideration. Present information pertaining to conservation techniques and demonstrate the use of tools and equipment to colleagues, students, and interns in the facility. Provide training on the safe storage, handling, and use of conservation supplies, chemicals, and equipment to colleagues, students, and interns. Provide advice and consultation to researchers and external institutions regarding conservation matters. Manage timely delivery of high quality and cost-effective conservation services.
 
Supervision: Ensure adherence to quality standards and procedures for short-term staff and volunteers.
 
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in a related field. College diploma in Conservation. Requires 5 years of relevant experience.
 
Assets: Experience in book and/or paper conservation. While some experience is required for this position, candidates with less than 5 years of experience--as mentioned in the Posting Details & Qualification--will be considered.