Assistant Conservator

Hanover, NH 03755
Berry Room 88

Working in coordination with Dartmouth Libraries' Collections Conservator, the Assistant Conservator works to support the daily workflows and operations of the Conservation Lab through the ongoing consultation, documentation, and completion of conservation treatments for circulating, non-circulating, and special collections material. While the Assistant Conservator primarily performs treatments on printed books and bound manuscripts, as a conservation professional, they also have opportunities to work with different formats (e.g three-dimensional and multimedia objects) and on collaborative, interdepartmental special projects. The Assistant Conservator serves an essential voice in planning for the future of the conservation program at Dartmouth Libraries and works to create and foster a supportive learning culture, and to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion policies and practices into work whenever applicable.

* Three years of relevant experience working in an academic library or conservation lab.

* Knowledge of current conservation principles, practices, and procedures as they pertain to the treatment of library materials, including documentation practices set forth by the American Institute of Conservation ( AIC).

* Demonstrated knowledge of bookbinding history and book structure.

* Developed skills in the examination, evaluation, and treatment of rare books, special collections, and archival material.

* Manual dexterity and ability to operate and maintain bookbinding tools and equipment. Must be able to work with leather and bookbinding materials.

* Familiarity with digital photography/digitization workflows, Microsoft programs, Airtable, and Lightroom.

* Must be able to lift boxes of up to 50lbs.

* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with others.

* Master's degree in Conservation, certificate in book conservation, or equivalent bench work experience in an academic library.

* Knowledge of general and organic chemistry.

* Interest and basic knowledge of contemporary media/digital conservation practices and techniques.

Dartmouth College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status. Applications by members of all underrepresented groups are encouraged.

Employment in this position is contingent upon consent to and successful completion of a pre-employment background check, which may include a criminal background check, reference checks, verification of work history, conduct review, and verification of any required academic credentials, licenses, and/or certifications, with results acceptable to Dartmouth College. A criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment. Background check information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

Dartmouth College has a Tobacco-Free Policy. Smoking and the use of tobacco-based products (including smokeless tobacco) are prohibited in all facilities, grounds, vehicles or other areas owned, operated or occupied by Dartmouth College with no exceptions. For details, please see our policy. https://policies.dartmouth.edu/policy/tobacco-free-policy

Under the guidance of the Collections Conservator, efficiently completes conservation treatments and detailed documentation for rare and unique library materials, as well as those in Dartmouth Libraries circulating collections. Most common treatments performed include: paper repair, resewing, rebinding in cloth, paper, leather, vellum; and building custom enclosures.

Acts as an intermediary with cross-campus stakeholders to ensure that Dartmouth Libraries' conservation efforts are in service of long-term access and preservation. Liaises with special collections staff, digital production team members, digital preservation specialists, subject librarians, and exhibition designers on collection-related projects. Advocates for informed treatment plans, proper care and handling, and appropriate exposure levels of light, temperature, and relative humidity.

Supports department activities by assessing treatment workflows, serving as a member of the emergency response team, and contributing to the long-term planning of Dartmouth's conservation program.

Actively participates in Collection Management & Preservation department meetings and serves on Library-wide committees. Keeps up to date and maintains awareness of current bookbinding and techniques through professional development opportunities.