Principal Cataloging Librarian

Description

The San Diego State University Library invites applications and nominations for a 12-month, tenure-track position to be appointed at the Senior Assistant or Associate Librarian level (depending on experience), with an anticipated start date in Summer 2025 with the possibility of an earlier start date if desired. The Principal Cataloging Librarian will provide expertise and leadership as part of the Content Organization and Management (COM) team to ensure timely, comprehensive, and effective discovery of all library collections, including digital objects, through the Library Service Platform (Alma) and other discovery services. We seek a creative, collaborative, and forward-looking colleague who can complement, strengthen, and expand partnerships across library departments and with colleagues across Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and the Division of Information Technology. More information about the SDSU Library is available at https://library.sdsu.edu/ 

The SDSU Library supports, promotes, and extends the distinctive teaching, learning, scholarship, and community engagement initiatives of the university, especially as those are highlighted in the university strategic plan, “We Rise, We Defy: Transcending Borders, Transforming Lives.” Committed to service and student-centered innovation in librarianship, recent library initiatives include the establishment of the Digital Humanities Center, buildIT makerspace, and partnerships around student success, including the establishment of the Latinx Resource Center. COM promotes discovery, access, and use of library collections, including more than 2.5 million volumes, 100,000 journal titles, and 450 databases, as well as a growing array of digital content. The unit values incorporating principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in cataloging work as expressed in the ALA Cataloging Code of Ethics. 

This is a full-time, tenure-track faculty position at the Sr. Assistant or Associate Librarian level (depending on qualifications). Continuing appointment and tenure are dependent upon evidence of library service effectiveness, professional growth and development, and service to the library, University, and community. The minimum salary for this position is based on the current CSU salary schedule and may be revised based on contract collective bargaining. The anticipated salary range is from $85,529 - $87,000 for Senior Assistant-Librarian 12-month or $101,000 - $110,000 for Associate Librarian-12-month. Salary placement will be based on the selected candidate’s qualifications and experience, and salaries higher than the published maximums may be offered in limited circumstances. San Diego State University offers a rich benefits package that constitutes a major portion of total compensation. For benefits information, click here.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

The Principal Cataloging Librarian will:

● Guide the on-going review of SDSU cataloging policies and procedures to ensure proper application of appropriate local, state, and national standards.

● Provide original and complex copy cataloging for various materials across multiple languages, formats, and time periods in a contemporary MARC-based environment according to local, consortial, and national standards

● Manage SDSU Libraries participation in cooperative metadata endeavors such as NACO, SACO, and Wikidata

● Manage unit-wide cataloging project assignments and outsourcing projects with vendors like Backstage

● Collaborate with other descriptive units and departments at SDSU to lead organization-wide efforts to address issues of diversity, inclusion and social justice through cataloging and metadata practices.

● Maintain high quality of local cataloging and contributions to consortial and national databases by staying current with national and international cataloging standards, metadata strategies, emergent developments, and trends in librarianship

● Integrate an understanding of diverse populations and communities into cataloging and metadata policies and practices

● Work closely with COM team members to develop, assess, and implement cataloging policies and establish priorities for cataloging and metadata projects

● Assist with training, oversight, and guidance to library staff performing cataloging or metadata activities in the library

● Serve as an expert resource for cataloging and metadata activities in the library;

● Commit to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace and to working effectively with a diverse student, staff, and faculty community

● Pursue professional development activities that demonstrate a continuous and meritorious record of contributions and achievements in the profession

● Participate in the shared governance of San Diego State University by ser