Curator of Early Printed Books

The Huntington Library seeks a Curator of Early Printed Books to serve as a creative and collaborative professional in stewarding, developing, and interpreting its exceptional collection of books from the handpress era (ca. 1450-1800). The Library holds over 400,000 early printed books, including more than 5,000 incunabula, and one of the world's largest collections of extra-illustrated books.

Essential Duties:

Stewards and develops the Library's extensive rare and special collections in Early Printed Books through gift and purchase. Interprets collections for diverse audiences through exhibitions, academic lectures, public talks, tours, conferences, publications, digital initiatives, and outreach activities. Provides research and reference assistance for the collection to users in person and remotely, and participates in the review of Huntington fellowship applications.

Works with Library Director, Advancement staff, and Head of Library Curatorial to identify and steward donors and win grants. Works with Technical Services on collection priorities and catalog records. Works with Reader Services to improve access and understanding of collections. Establishes priorities for preservation and conservation in collaboration with Preservation staff. Advises colleagues in Education and Public Programs on content interpretation. Keeps current with developments in scholarly and library professional communities. Represents the Library at professional organizations. Contributes to departmental and institution-wide activities.

Candidate Requirements:

Specific subject knowledge of the history of the book in the hand-press era, European printing methods, bibliography, and history of the book, usually obtained through a PhD (preferred), MLIS, or advanced degree in relevant discipline. Familiarity with catalogues like ESTC and ISTC. Familiarity with Material Evidence in Incunabula (MEI) project. Demonstrated experience conducting advanced research with rare books and primary sources. Familiarity with library and special collection standards, copyright issues, and managing restricted collections. Knowledge of the rare book trade. Excellent organizational, analytical, oral, and written communication skills including public speaking. Reading knowledge of non-English European language, preferably German and/or Latin. Understanding of preservation issues in special collections. Ability to prioritize competing tasks. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse colleagues, researchers, and donors.

Minimum 5 years professional work experience in special collections or research library. Experience acquiring rare materials. Experience with digitization and digital humanities projects. Record of scholarly and professional contributions.