Internship at McMaster University

Intern
Archives and Book Conservation
McMaster University
Preservation Unit, Archives and Research Collections
Mills Memorial Library
Location: LB 113
Term of Internship: 6 months (January 2 to June 30, 2006)

Under the leadership of the Research Collections Librarian and a
conservator, the candidate will receive instruction and training to
carry out a series of duties from first-aid treatment to complex
conservation on the rare books and archives in the William Ready
Division of Archives and Research Collections. An experienced
conservator will act as a mentor to ensure a rewarding, enriching
internship in archives and book conservation. The instruction and
training will enhance the incumbent's skills and knowledge in book
and paper conservation. The appointment will begin January 2 to June
30, 2006, subject to establishing good working relationships.  The
candidate will be required to work 35 hours per week.

Specific Accountabilities

    *   Assist with stabilization, cleaning and carrying out
        preventative conservation on items housed in the Ready
        Division by making phase boxes, slipcases, clamshell boxes,
        and other protective enclosures.

    *   Documents the condition and treatment procedures of items
        before and after conservation. Evaluates information with
        input from conservators to plan the most appropriate
        treatment.

    *   Under the guidance of a conservator, may conserve and repair
        rare books, pamphlets, broadsides, maps, posters, and
        archives for the Ready Division.

    *   Responsible for carrying out all aspects of a specific
        conservation project, from examination, documentation of
        condition, recommendations for treatment, through to
        completion of the full treatment programme, housing and
        return to the collection.

Qualifications: Education: Successful completion of at least one
academic year of a recognized book and paper conservation program in
a Community College or University.

Experience: Preference will be given to candidates with one year of
work experience in a library or archives setting.

Knowledge/Skills:

    *   Broad knowledge of all facets of conservation, preservation
        and book conservation

    *   Good manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude

    *   Broad knowledge of various chemicals and their properties

    *   Ability to mix chemicals and make formulas

    *   Good appreciation of cultural heritage and the integrity of
        historical artefacts as physical objects

    *   Strong technical knowledge associated with conservation;
        knowledge of temperature and humidity controls; familiarity
        with emergency planning; time management and organization;
        aesthetic appreciation

    *   Ability to communicate clearly both in written and verbal
        conversation

    *   Ability to work in team environment

    *   Flexibility and initiative

Salary: The minimum stipend is $2, 012.66 per month. The individual
stipend will be based on related experience and qualifications.

Interviewed candidates will be expected to present a portfolio of
their work. Applications, which should include a cover letter,
resume and the names of two references should be addressed to:

    Melanie Richber
    Human Resources Consultant
    McMaster University
    Mills Memorial Library, Rm 209
    1280 Main St. W, Hamilton
    Ontario L8S 4L6
    Fax: 905-524-9850
    libjobs<-a t->mcmaster< . >ca

Application Deadline: October 30, 2005

McMaster University is strongly committed to employment equity and
diversity within its community.  The University especially welcomes
applications from visible minority group members, women, Aboriginal
persons, persons with disabilities, members of sexual minority
groups, and others who may contribute to the further diversification
of ideas.


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 19:17
                 Distributed: Thursday, October 6, 2005
                       Message Id: cdl-19-17-042
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