Darwin Library Cataloguer (Fixed Term)

University Library, University of Cambridge • Part-time • Cambridge • £27.32k - £31.24k / year • 3m ago

Ever wanted to work in an institution that is home to one of the world's great collections of cultural treasures and research materials? Spanning thousands of years of human thought and discovery, Cambridge University Library houses unique treasures and research materials made up of nearly ten million books, maps, manuscripts, photographs and priceless objects.

The role

This role is the central role in a project to make a complete catalogue of the books owned by Charles Darwin that are currently held by the Darwin Archive at Cambridge University Libraries and Archives. As Darwin Library cataloguer you will:

Catalogue books held both at Cambridge University Library and at Down House using recognised bibliographical standards (AACR2, DCRMB, LCSH)
Create holding records for periodicals and article offprints
Note annotations by Darwin, members of his family, or other historical figures and other copy-specific information
Edit existing catalogue records

What we are looking for

Experience of cataloguing print book using an online system
Knowledge of current bibliographical standards (AACR2, DCRMB, LCSH)
Ability to use cataloguing systems such as Alma
Ability to undertake provenance research using databases and reference works
Excellent attention to detail

What we offer

Generous annual leave allowance of 36 days
Exceptional parental leave (including maternity, paternity / co-parent, adoption and shared parental leave)
Discounts on major retailers
Professional development opportunities such as apprenticeships and access to a variety of training courses
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 24 months in the first instance

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University. We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements. We particularly welcome applications from women and/or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our department.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

How to apply

For informal enquiries please contact Emily Dourish, Deputy Keeper of Rare Books and Early Manuscripts at ejm25@cam.ac.uk or Liz Smith, Digital Curator on els47@cam.ac.uk

Application closing date: Sunday 26 October 2025

Interview date: 10/11 November 2025

For further details please refer to the Further Particulars. You are advised to demonstrate in your application how you meet the essential criteria for the role. Please quote reference VE47551 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.