Special Collections Processing Assistant

University of New Hampshire

2d•$18 - $18

About The Position

Milne Special Collections and Archives (SCA) houses more than 20,000 cubic feet of books and archival materials documenting the history of the University of New Hampshire and the Seacoast region. Additional collecting strengths include the American Civil War, fly fishing, the Shakers, and Anglo-American folk dance. The Special Collections Processing Assistant will focus primarily on processing the local and regional history collections. This position is ideal for emerging professionals and candidates with an interest in history, museums, archives, or library science. It offers hands-on experience working with unique primary sources and rare secondary materials while learning the fundamentals of professional archival processing. Primary responsibilities include arranging and describing physical and digital materials, creating written documentation, and publishing archival finding aids. This is a 28-hour-per-week position through FY26, with the possibility of extension. The employee will work under the supervision of the Library Manager, who also serves as the Workday approver. Additional direction may be provided by other SCA staff, particularly the Reference Coordinator when duties involve service desk coverage. Successful candidates will be professional, conscientious, detail-oriented, and able to work independently with minimal supervision. The ability to follow instructions, ask clarifying questions when appropriate, and apply critical thinking skills is essential.

Requirements

Basic computer skills (especially proficiency with Microsoft Office) and an ability to learn new software programs such as Alma and ArchivesSpace.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability and willingness to foster a healthy work environment.
Ability to work independently but ask for guidance when appropriate.
Strong attention to detail and ability to stay focused on project work.
Comfort with answering basic patron questions by telephone and in person.
Ability to prioritize work tasks amidst multiple simultaneous projects.
Ability to be punctual with arrivals and appointments.
Flexibility to help other staff with urgent requests when needed.
Valid driver’s license.
Ability to handle archival materials with care.
Ability to perform computer work at a desk for several hours at a time.
Ability to lift boxes up to 45 lbs.
Ability to climb short ladders.
Ability to read call numbers on books and boxes.
Ability to push/pull fully loaded book trucks and flatbed carts.
Ability to drive a small UNH passenger vehicle

Nice To Haves

Previous experience with archival processing preferred

Responsibilities

Accessioning and processing (including arranging and rehousing) archival collections with wide variations in physical extent, formats, age and complexity. This includes conducting historical research and writing descriptions of archival collections as necessary for producing cataloging records and finding aids.
Writing finding aids using the ArchivesSpace platform, including bulk item upload via spreadsheets.
Driving UNH vehicles to transport materials.
Identifying individuals in photographs through the cross checking of relevant sources.
Assisting with acquisition and content/condition analysis of new accessions.
Adding digital materials into the collection and generating appropriate metadata.
Identifying sensitive information (such as social security numbers) that may require redaction.
Scanning especially fragile materials for preservation according to established standards.
Occasionally staffing the service desk and assisting patrons in person and by telephone.
Assisting with materials moves between the Library Storage Building and Dimond Library.
Assisting the Reference Coordinator by scanning materials for patron requests.
Shelving books and archival boxes according to call number as well as locating misplaced materials.
ArchivesSpace inventory and finding aid cleanup assistance.