Libraries Curator

The historic library collections held by the National Trust for Scotland provide a rich and varied record of readership and intellectual history across more than 40 historic properties. The Libraries Curator will lead initiatives to bring these collections to life for our visitors and open them up for researchers, both in person and digitally. Displayed and managed within historic settings, the current lack of centrally managed and accurate book listing hinders research, interpretation, and storytelling. With expertise in book history and rare books cataloguing, the Libraries Curator will work with external stakeholders and colleagues across the Trust to spearhead initiatives to catalogue and preserve the collections, open them up for research and enhanced visitor engagement, and to raise the profile of these collections both nationally and internationally.

SHORT-TERM PROJECT ACCOUNTABILITY

The priority for this role will be to develop and promote a project to audit and catalogue the NTS library collections to professional standards. Within the first year, the post-holder will review existing collections data and systems, pilot potential cataloguing project models with support from external consultants and stakeholders and work closely with the fundraising team to seek support for an ambitious programme of cataloguing, public engagement and collections research. The priorities for the following years, and the longer-term extension of this role, will depend on the outcome of this initial development phase.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

Plan and deliver a series of projects in book cataloguing to ensure a consistent standard of cataloguing across NTS properties, including recruiting and managing temporary staff, and managing project budgets to ensure targets and standards are met

Deliver long-term improvements to the management of library collections at NTS through ongoing internal advocacy and contributions to strategic planning, both regionally and centrally

Build and maintain key stakeholder relationships across the historic library sector, representing NTS at national and international sector events where appropriate

Develop and implement policies for the management, cataloguing and development of library collections at the Trust to recognised professional standards

Develop research strategies, and build partnerships to align external research requests with NTS research priorities

Support the development of innovative visitor experiences and engagement activities relating to, and using, our library collections, both in person and online

Build and maintain relationships with colleagues across NTS, to support better care, and security of library collections, as well as improved access and interpretation – this will be done in partnership with regional curators, regional conservators, and with property staff

Promote NTS library collections nationally and internationally by researching the collections and sharing the outcomes with using the Trust’s main digital channels, and through external professional networks.

Other duties and responsibilities which may arise, ensuring that any work produced is outcome led, focused on delivery, and meets the needs of historic properties.

Application Deadline: Sunday 28/07/2024