The
Rakow Research Library at The Corning Museum of Glass, the world’s foremost library on the art and history of glass and glassmaking,
is offering an unpaid internship for a library science student interested in the field of cataloging. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with our book collection, which covers subject areas from archaeology to zoology and everything
glass in between. Projects involve modifying and enhancing existing bibliographic records, copy-cataloging, and authority work, but may be tailored to the strengths and/or interests of the individual intern.
The preferred candidate is a motivated problem solver with an interest in cataloging. Applicants should have some practical experience with copy cataloging and the use of authority files. The intern will have strong
organizational skills and attention to detail, and will feel comfortable working semi-independently with library materials in various languages. Ability to work in a Windows environment is required. Hands-on experience with OCLC Connexion and the Voyager library
system is a plus. Experience with art-related subject matter is preferred but not necessary.
Ability to commit to at least 10–15 hours/week is preferred, but we can offer some flexibility regarding terms and hours. This internship is unpaid, but we will provide you with valuable work experience in a unique
library setting.
Learning Opportunities
- Gain experience in the area of cataloging and authority control
- Gain knowledge of the intricacies of collections management
- Gain an understanding of the organization and inner workings of a specialized museum library
Potential Activities (Other duties may be assigned)
- Perform copy-cataloging of books
- Maintain the name and subject authority files and reconcile bibliographic records as needed
- Enhance previously cataloged records with table of contents notes
- Identify and relocate preservation copies of books in specified call number ranges
- Check the local subject heading card file against OCLC and identify headings to submit through SACO
Work & Educational Requirements
- Interest in the cataloging profession
- Currently enrolled in a library or information science program
- Coursework/experience in descriptive cataloging and classification
- Familiarity with library catalogs
- Strong organizational skills and attention to details
- Excellent communication and time management skills
- Ability to work independently; ability to take direction; willingness to ask questions
- Ability to work with foreign language materials
- Ability to work in a Windows environment; proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
- Ability to lift 25 pounds and push a book cart
To Apply
Kelly Bliss
Cataloger
The Rakow Research Library
The Corning Museum of Glass
5 Museum Way
Corning, NY 14830