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Assistant Cataloging Librarian

Rowley, MA
Full-Time

Job Description

The Peabody Essex Museum’s Phillips Library seeks a full-time Assistant Cataloging Librarian to fulfill the role of primary cataloger on staff, an essential role to improve intellectual and physical access to our collections. They will work closely with the Technical Services Librarian to identify cataloging priorities, implement equitable descriptive practices, streamline workflows, reduce the backlog, serve as a resource for cataloging-related questions, and maintain cataloging-related systems. The Assistant Cataloging Librarian is expected to participate collaboratively in library-wide and museum-wide projects and initiatives.

We are seeking a candidate that has around 2–4 years cataloging experience along with knowledge of library and archival standards such as RDA, DCRM(B), LCSH, and MARC. Experience with library services platforms, original cataloging of special collections, and managing cataloging software and systems preferred. Excellent communication, problem-solving skills, flexibility, and a commitment to teamwork. Sensitivity to proper care and handling of materials; a working knowledge of Chinese, Japanese, and/or Korean is a plus.

An ALA-accredited degree in library/information science, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The abilities to use computing tools and to lift, carry, and position books and other materials weighing up to 15 lbs; library materials may be stored on shelves up to 12 feet high. Their work will take place at PEM’s Collection Center in Rowley, Massachusetts, with occasional responsibilities at the museum campus in Salem. Reliable transportation is required. The hourly range for this role is $21.63 to $26.50 commensurate with experience.

We will being reviewing applications immediately, so please apply as soon as possible. The closing date is subject to change at any time.

PDN-a015c343-6f38-4f0f-a3d6-b9995ab7ce6b

The Peabody Essex Museum’s Phillips Library seeks a full-time Assistant Cataloging Librarian to fulfill the role of primary cataloger on staff, an essential role to improve intellectual and physical access to our collections. They will work closely with the Technical Services Librarian to identify cataloging priorities, implement equitable descriptive practices, streamline workflows, reduce the backlog, serve as a resource for cataloging-related questions, and maintain cataloging-related systems. The Assistant Cataloging Librarian is expected to participate collaboratively in library-wide and museum-wide projects and initiatives.

We are seeking a candidate that has around 2–4 years cataloging experience along with knowledge of library and archival standards such as RDA, DCRM(B), LCSH, and MARC. Experience with library services platforms, original cataloging of special collections, and managing cataloging software and systems preferred. Excellent communication, problem-solving skills, flexibility, and a commitment to teamwork. Sensitivity to proper care and handling of materials; a working knowledge of Chinese, Japanese, and/or Korean is a plus.

An ALA-accredited degree in library/information science, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The abilities to use computing tools and to lift, carry, and position books and other materials weighing up to 15 lbs; library materials may be stored on shelves up to 12 feet high. Their work will take place at PEM’s Collection Center in Rowley, Massachusetts, with occasional responsibilities at the museum campus in Salem. Reliable transportation is required. The hourly range for this role is $21.63 to $26.50 commensurate with experience.

We will being reviewing applications immediately, so please apply as soon as possible. The closing date is subject to change at any time.

PDN-a015c343-6f38-4f0f-a3d6-b9995ab7ce6b

About Peabody Essex Museum

PEM boldly honors creativity as a nourishing force in people’s lives.

We offer thought-provoking experiences of the arts, humanities and sciences to activate understanding of our shared humanity and to empower imagination and learning through experimentation. We steward, build and make our collections accessible to encourage appreciation of the interconnected histories and creativity of people in our complex, always changing world.

As a museum that celebrates creativity to advance our shared humanity, we aspire to be an inclusive, equitable cultural organization that motivates, connects, and empowers people through inquiry, empathy, and dialogue. We strive to create and sustain a sense of belonging and to nurture our ability to build bridges.

We acknowledge that the role of global trade in PEM’s predecessor organizations warrants careful consideration. We commit to being aware and appreciative of differences in order to prevent overlooking, hurting, or excluding anyone. We will continue to work purposefully to remove barriers, whether physical, emotional, or social, so that PEM offers everyone welcoming spaces and experiences where they feel seen, heard, and treated with dignity and respect.

Everyone at PEM has a role to play in bringing this commitment to life. We will use this commitment statement as a guide in our ongoing work, which includes sharing the accomplishments, setbacks, and challenges of our DEIA journey.

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Assistant Cataloging Librarian
Peabody Essex Museum
Rowley, MA
Oct 11, 2025
Full-time
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