Book Conservator

Princeton University Library (PUL) seeks a skilled, knowledgeable, and innovative Book Conservator to administer and manage conservation of PUL’s extraordinary collections. PUL is one of the world’s leading research libraries, serving a diverse community of 5,500 undergraduates, 3,100 graduate students, 1,200 faculty members, and many visiting scholars. Its holdings include more than 7 million printed volumes, 5 million manuscripts, 2 million non-print items, and extensive collections of digital text, data, and images. PUL employs a dedicated and knowledgeable staff of more than 300 professional and support staff working in a large central library, 9 specialized branches, and 3 storage facilities. 

Major Responsibilities
The Book Conservator works closely with the Assistant University Librarian, other Preservation & Conservation staff, and colleagues from across the Library to ensure long-term preservation of Princeton University Library’s general and special collections. The Book Conservator provides highly-skilled conservation treatment and preservation expertise for diverse bound and unbound collections with a focus on materials characterized by rarity, uniqueness, and complex technical problems. The Book Conservator works in support of priority projects including exhibitions and digitization, as well as the Library’s long-term goals for stewardship. As a key member of the Preservation & Conservation Department, the Book Conservator collaborates with Preservation & Conservation colleagues to plan for and respond to collection emergencies, to carry out materials testing and analysis, to manage collection moves, to develop departmental and Library-wide policies and workflows, to engage with professional organizations, and to provide outreach and training as appropriate.

Required
● Master’s degree in conservation (or related area with certificate in conservation), or equivalent combination of education and experience
● Three or more years of post-graduate professional experience
● Demonstrated knowledge of conservation science, analytical techniques, preventive conservation principles, and conservation ethics
● Demonstrated skill in book and paper conservation treatments
● Experience conducting housing and storage projects
● Experience with planning and carrying out condition surveys
● Interest in and experience with library and/or archival collections
● Outstanding interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
● Ability to plan, prioritize, multi-task, and meet deadlines
● Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, consultants, and vendors
● Availability for occasional travel and evening/weekend shifts as necessary

Preferred
● Previous academic library experience
● Experience with conservation treatment of non-Western collections
● Track record of engagement with professional organizations, including presenting and publishing in appropriate venues
● Peer-reviewed status with the American Institute for Conservation

The successful candidate will be appointed as an Associate Professional Specialist or more senior rank depending upon qualifications and experience.
To apply visit: https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/32221
Applications received by October 15, 2023 will receive first consideration.

Princeton University Library is committed to recruiting a diverse workforce and advancing the University's commitment to racial equity within our community and in the world. We encourage candidates from all diverse backgrounds and life experiences to apply for our positions. To find out more about PUL’s work towards greater inclusivity, equity, and diversity, please see PUL’s “About” page.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.