Associate Director, Collections - Schomburg Center

$130,000 - $140,000/Yr

The New York Public Library - New York, NY

Full-time - Senior

New York, NY

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About the position

The Associate Director of Collections at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture plays a pivotal role in leading and shaping the vision for the Center's four curatorial divisions. This position is integral to managing the operations of special collections, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of significant materials related to African American and African Diaspora history. The successful candidate will provide mentorship to curatorial staff, collaborate with various stakeholders, and innovate methods for expanding the use of the collections, all while representing the Center at public events and conferences.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership in developing and shaping a vision for the future of collecting at the Schomburg Center.
• Oversee the daily management of special collections operations, including creating new processes and procedures where needed.
• Lead a team of experienced professionals, identifying professional development and training needs for all curatorial and related staff.
• Collaborate with NYPL's departments on preservation, access, description, digitization, policy, and stewardship of the collection.
• Understand copyright and intellectual property issues relating to archives and special collections.
• Identify and innovate around new methods for sharing and expanding the use of the Schomburg's collections.
• Work with curatorial staff to develop fresh approaches to curatorial projects, exhibitions, and public uses of the collections.
• Identify and assist with grants and funding opportunities related to special Schomburg projects.
• Follow emerging trends and innovations in library science and public service methodologies.
• Regularly represent the Schomburg at conferences, symposia, and public events.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years curatorial experience in a collections environment with demonstrated acquisition and collection development experience.
• Broad knowledge of African American and African Diaspora history and culture required.
• 3-5 years of supervisory experience managing, mentoring, and leading complex teams.
• Demonstrated ability to work and communicate effectively at all levels of an organization and with the public.
• Prior experience effectively collaborating across functions and departments to execute institutional priorities.
• Excellent problem solving, planning and organizational skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in grant writing and fundraising for cultural institutions.
• Familiarity with digital tools and technologies for library and archival management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $130,000 - $140,000 per year.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Engagement with diverse stakeholders and communities.