Cataloging and Metadata Librarian

Cataloging and Metadata Librarian

Posting Number: S01555JP

Department: Library

Job Summary:
The Cataloging and Metadata Librarian creates original catalog records and enhances existing records in WorldCat and the local library catalog (Alma), according to national and international standards, in order to ensure timely and efficient access to library materials in all formats and languages, including audiovisual materials, serials, rare books, scores, and maps. The successful candidate will also perform a variety of complex database maintenance work to ensure the integrity and fullness of cataloging data, as well as collaborate with colleagues across Colby, Bates, and Bowdoin (CBB) on shared cataloging policies. In addition, the candidate will provide guidance and expertise to technical services and other library staff on and evolving cataloging standards and metadata practices, including emerging trends in critical cataloging.

We will begin reviewing applications on July 13th and continue until the position is filled.

COMPENSATION

• The hiring range for this position is expected to be: $67,700-71,400

BENEFITS AND PERKS

• A variety of health insurance plans (Medical, Vision, Dental)
• Generous Retirement Plan – 401(a) and 403(b)
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off: 20 days of vacation per calendar year, 12 days of personal/sick time
• Paid Holidays and Special Days Off: https://www.bowdoin.edu/hr/our-workplace/college-holidays-and-special-days-off.html
• Paid Parental Leave (Available after one year of service)
• Household access to many of the College’s facilities including the gym and pool
• Free fitness and wellness classes!
• And more: https://www.bowdoin.edu/hr/benefits-perks/index.html

Education/Skills Requirements:
A Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited library program or an advanced degree in a related discipline is required.

Required skills:
1. Familiarity with various metadata and content standards and vocabularies, including but not limited to MARC, RDA, Library of Congress Subject Headings, and Library of Congress Genre/Form Terms.
2. Familiarity with current and emerging trends in descriptive metadata.
3. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a service-oriented disposition and ability to work well both independently and collaboratively.
4. Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
5. Familiarity with cataloging and integrated library systems, and capacity to learn new systems and technologies.

Preferred skills:
1. Cataloging knowledge of one or more foreign languages.
2. Experience classifying materials according to Library of Congress Classification.
3. Familiarity with sheet music, maps, or other formats, preferably in a library metadata context.

Experience Requirements and/or Equivalents:
One year of experience cataloging using MARC and RDA, including experience gained through education.
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications in this posting to be considered for hire.

Standard Work Days and Hours:
This is an exempt position requiring time commitment necessary to satisfactorily complete job requirements. Hours are generally Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Schedules may vary to meet operational needs.

Onsite – This is an on-site role, and candidates must be able to work in person on Bowdoin College Campus in Brunswick, Maine.
We regret that Bowdoin College is unable to provide visa sponsorship for staff positions.

Employment at Bowdoin College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of applicable background checks including but not limited to: criminal records, educational verifications, driving records (when job-related), and/or credit history (when job related).

About Bowdoin:
Bowdoin embraces diversity in all forms, and the College is home to talented students, faculty and staff-with a variety of racial, ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds; religious beliefs; and gender identities, among other factors.

We encourage applications from candidates committed to the support of an inclusive campus community and those who will enrich and contribute to the College’s multifaceted diversity. We value a community in which individuals of all backgrounds are warmly welcomed and encouraged to succeed.

Founded in 1794, Bowdoin has maintained its commitment to the liberal arts for well over 200 years. Bowdoin’s reputation as a preeminent liberal arts college rests on the excellence of its faculty, students, and staff; intimate size; strong sense of community; and connections to the people, history, and natural beauty of Maine.

Bowdoin’s campus is situated in a beautiful natural setting. Located in Brunswick, Maine, a town of approximately 20,000, the College is a short drive from the Maine coast, twenty-five miles from Portland and 120 miles from Boston.

Shift: N/A

Employment Category: Full Time Year Round

Benefits Eligible:

Pay Type: Salaried

Background Check Package Requirements: Faculty/Administrative

Is driving a Bowdoin vehicle an essential function of this job?:

Is a pre-placement physical required for this position?: No

Posting Date: 06/10/2026

Applications Accepted Until:

Open Until Filled: No

Special Instructions to Applicants: If selected as a finalist, you will be required to submit information for three references, including name, email address, phone number and how you know the reference.

EEO Information:
Bowdoin College complies with applicable provisions of federal and state laws that prohibit unlawful discrimination in employment, admission, or access to its educational or extracurricular programs, activities, or facilities based on race, color, ethnicity, ancestry and national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, marital status, place of birth, genetic predisposition, veteran status, or against qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities on the basis of disability, or any other legally protected statuses.

To apply, visit https://careers.bowdoin.edu/postings/17886jeid-87dc2f6664af2e45b0449827bffe247e

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