About the Job
The Cataloging Assistant supports the operations of the Law Library’s Cataloging Department. The primary responsibilities of this position are creating and editing metadata at all levels, as well as collaborating on and participating in special cataloging and collection maintenance projects. This position is covered by the AFSCME Technical Union. Union/Fair share deductions may be made. Scheduled work days: Monday - Friday (year round).
Essential Functions
Metadata Creation and Editing (60%)
Create, enhance, and edit metadata for Law Library resources in all formats to reflect current metadata standards and to ensure optimal access to Law Library collections.
Perform a combination of copy, complex copy, and original cataloging, including descriptive cataloging, authority work, subject assignment, and classification.
Perform routine catalog maintenance duties.
Workflow and Collaboration (35%)
In collaboration with the department supervisor, organize and participate in special cataloging and collection maintenance projects and perform related data cleanup or record maintenance tasks.
Resolve problems and issues submitted by Law Library or University Libraries staff and patrons when possible; refer to other staff when necessary.
Participate in committees and working groups and interact with Law Library and University Libraries staff to problem-solve, create work procedures, and improve workflow.
Assist the department with writing and review of documentation.
Maintain and compile cataloging and workflow statistics.
Collaborate with Law Library staff and participate in departmental and interdepartmental meetings, projects, and events.
Interact with other Law School departments and serve on Law School committees as appropriate.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Continuing Education (5%)
With guidance from the department supervisor, engage in continuing education related to the position’s responsibilities by attending workshops, webinars, and other professional development activities.
Share expertise and knowledge with others in the Law Library as appropriate.
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment, 12 month
Position Type: Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff (AFSCME Unit 7 - Technical)
Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
- Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
- Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
- Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
- University HSA contributions
- Disability and employer-paid life insurance
- Employee wellbeing program
- Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
- Financial counseling services
- Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
- Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma/GED.
- Five years relevant library experience. College education may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis up to three years.
- Demonstrated proficiency using common software and computer systems, including the ability to navigate bibliographic databases.
- Demonstrated ability to complete work accurately with high attention to detail and in a timely manner.
- Demonstrated skills in communication, customer service, collaboration, and problem-solving.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain established work standards and procedures, as well as adapt easily to procedural changes.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and to work effectively with others.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge in the area of cataloging/metadata, including knowledge of national and international standards such as RDA, Library of Congress Subject Headings, Library of Congress Classification, and MARC formats.
- Experience with Alma or other integrated library systems (ILS).
- Experience with legal materials.
- Demonstrated ability to take initiative and independently prioritize multiple and competing work assignments.
About the Department
The Law Library Cataloging Department’s primary mission is to provide optimal access to the Law Library’s collections and electronic resources. The Cataloging Department enhances end-user discovery of Law Library resources through its practical application of metadata schemata, and transformation and repurposing of data. The Cataloging Department is responsible for cataloging Law Library resources in all formats, authority control, and database maintenance of Law Library records in the University of Minnesota enterprise library management system. Bibliographic control of materials in all formats is consistently maintained through adherence to international, national, and local standards. The department also participates in planning and managing collection maintenance projects. The department remains flexible to respond to the changing needs of all users and staff. The department consists of 1 Librarian supervisor and 1 Labor Represented FTE.
External Job Ad
https://hr.myu.umn.edu/jobs/ext/370964
How To Apply
Applications must be submitted online.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
Please include a resume for a complete application.
Applications received by December 1st, 2025, will receive priority consideration. The position will remain open until filled.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [email protected] or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).