We are seeking an experienced professional archivist to deliver a short-term project to rationalise, rehouse, and improve access to a significant archival collection. The role focuses on implementing practical, space-efficient storage solutions that protect fragile material while working pragmatically within existing time, staffing, and resource constraints.
Duties
• Rationalize and improve storage in CARC basement – we are already currently weeding out non-archival stuff (old equipment etc) to make more space, but the store is unnecessarily full because of inefficient and inappropriate storage of records in partly empty filing cabinets etc.
• In doing so, greatly increase the storage space in the room, i.e. with new storage solutions, so as to accommodate material which has to move from elsewhere.
• Similarly, identify some other storage solutions in CARC’s main study room and small work room.
• Work with Classics Faculty admin staff to dispose of unwanted storage furniture etc., and economically source, acquire and install new storage furniture.
• Work with Faculty admin staff and CARC staff to migrate the material that needs to be homed, currently on the floor of the study room and in filing cabinets and shelves in two offices.
• Re-house particular bits of material which are in unsuitable boxes, files etc – priorities e.g. Beazley correspondence in hanging files with metal paper clips; 18th-century gem impressions in old broken cabinets etc.
• In doing all this, to show due care and sensitivity to the material, finding solutions that protect it as well as we feasibly can for the future, but at the same time be flexible and sensitive about the limitations of CARC’s staffing and capacity for conservation – i.e. let’s not allow perfect be the enemy of good.
• To try and build into the new storage arrangement ease of future retrieval and re-storage, so as to make it quick and easy for CARC staff (mainly me) to cater for users.
• As far as the time and funding might allow through this process, to facilitate the above by drawing up handlists and finding guides (not full inventories), to streamline our archival operations.
Selection criteria
• Professional archival experience, including reorganising and rehousing collections.
• Up-to-date knowledge of archival storage and conservation standards, applied pragmatically to fragile and mixed-format material.
• Proven ability to assess spatial constraints and implement efficient, space-saving storage solutions.
• Experience handling sensitive historic material with appropriate care and judgement.
• Ability to plan and deliver a defined project independently within time and resource constraints.
• Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with non-specialist staff.
Vacancy ID: 21447
Please be aware that all candidates need to be able to start work immediately and must be able to work on site if required to do so.
Further information can about the Temporary Staffing Service can be found on our website https://www.jobs.ox.ac.uk/temporary-staffing-service