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Job Description:
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Description:
Reporting to the University Archivist and working closely with the Associate University Librarian responsible for collections, the Conservator will manage a project to inform the development of a comprehensive conservation program for the library system as a whole, which encompasses the University Archives, W.D. Jordan Rare Books and Special Collections, and five faculty-based libraries, as well as carrying out treatment procedures for the conservation and preservation of archival and library material, particularly paper and rare book conservation, employing specialized techniques to restore, repair and conserve such items.
Duties:
Manage a project to inform the development of a comprehensive conservation program for the library system as a whole. This includes working with a project group to:
o Prepare an environmental scan of industry best practices and relevant factors at the university
and in the City of Kingston, consulting with groups such as the Department of Art History and Art Conservation.
o Document and assess current practices for conservation and preservation across the library system.
o Engage with current print stewardship projects and articulate related conservation needs.
o Review the current state of available conservation facilities and equipment.
o Review the current disaster plan and requirements for effective implementation.
o Establish criteria for identifying and prioritizing preservation-driven digitization projects.
o Provide recommendations on service levels and associated staffing, facilities and equipment requirements.
Perform conservation and preservation activities:
Identify, assess and prioritize items for conservation treatments and preventative maintenance and carry out appropriate processes.
Advise on measures to ensure secure and appropriate environmental conditions for collections, including climate monitoring and control, prevention of mold or infestations, etc.
Supervise conservation/processing technicians, interns from Queen’s Master of Art Conservation (MAC) program, student assistants and student volunteers.
Advise on restricting the use of some material based on condition and other factors and arrangements for alternate formats if deemed necessary.
Advise on training and promotional materials for archivists, librarians, technicians, other
university departments, and users on correct storage and handling of material.
Advise on and prepare items for loan or exhibitions.
Ensure that appropriate supplies and equipment are ordered for the conservation lab and preservation processing.
Engages in continuing professional development and keeps current on state of the art practices in conservation.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required:
A graduate degree in conservation from an accredited program or equivalent combination of education and experience. Technical and ethical knowledge of a wide range of conservation and preservation issues.
Strong project management skills. Ability to work effectively in both a team and self-directed environment. Energy, flexibility, creativity. Excellent interpersonal, organizational and communication skills.
Strong leadership qualities. Physical ability to conduct conservation work (excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity; ability to work standing up for many hours, work light machinery such as a board shear, lift and carry moderate weight, wear protective equipment when necessary).
Preferred:
Experience with paper, photographic, and book preservation and conservation work, preferably in an archive or library. Experience in an academic environment, especially with a wide variety of staff and faculty.
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