Book & Paper Conservator, John Carter Brown Library and Brown University Library
Listing Start Date: April 11, 2025Expires: June 11, 2025n
The John Carter Brown Library (JCB) and Brown University Library are seeking applications for the position of Book & Paper Conservator. This joint position will help expand the conservation programs at both libraries, working with special collections at the JCB and John Hay Library.
Applications may be submitted online on the Brown Career Site (REQ200979).
This is a Grade 10 position; Brown University’s Grade 10 salary range is $65,000 to $99,000.
Review of applications will begin at the end of April. Please feel free to contact me with questions! ([email protected])
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Job Description
Reporting to the Head of Libraries Conservation, the Book and Paper Conservator will play a central role in the conservation programs at the John Carter Brown Library (JCB) and Brown University Library (BUL). Conservation is integral to both libraries’ teaching and research missions, helping to expand access to these world-class collections. The JCB/BUL conservation programs play a part in virtually all activities of the libraries, including exhibits, class and reading room use of collections, acquisitions, digitization, community outreach, and research. The ideal candidate will have a collaborative, creative, and inclusive approach to conservation work.
The John Carter Brown Library, an independently administered and funded library located on the Brown campus, is home to one of the world’s outstanding collections of printed books and maps related to the early Americas. The JCB’s collection of more than 75,000 rare books, maps, and manuscripts encompasses more than two hundred languages and spans more than three centuries. The John Hay Library is home to Brown’s special collections, including most of the University’s rare books, manuscripts, and archives, and includes exhibit galleries and teaching spaces.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree and formal training in book conservation at the graduate level or equivalent combination of apprenticeship, advanced courses, internships, and experience.
- Minimum of three years of work in a preservation department within a library, archive, museum, or private practice.
- Excellence in performing complex conservation treatments on a broad range of library and archival materials, as demonstrated through a portfolio.
- Ability to communicate effectively about treatment options and decisions.
- Experience working collaboratively with varied groups within a complex organization.
- Knowledge of the history of book and papermaking, bookbinding techniques, and the history and manufacture of other library materials.
- Knowledge of and adherence to professional ethical practice in conservation.
- Working knowledge of chemistry as it applies to conservation and library materials.