Archives Assistant

**Archives Assistant - YCW - Espanola Public Library**

The Espanola Public Library is looking for an outgoing, service-oriented, tech savvy individual to assist with front-line customer service while also developing the foundation for a formal archival collection. Espanola Public Library services the town of Espanola and three contracting areas, with a current total population of approximately 6,570. The area has a long and rich history, much of which is based on the natural environment and attendant resources therein.

The library currently houses an extensive but undocumented collection of local history books, documents, audio-visual items, and artifacts. The long-term goal is to digitize most aspects of the collection for online searching capacity - celebrating Espanola’s past, while preserving records for the future. Reporting to the CEO, the Archives Assistant will be responsible for developing records, digitizing content, conducting programming and outreach, and providing customer services.

**DESCRIPTION**:

- Physically examine, inventory, and process textual and audio-visual (AV) archival materials including rehousing them into archival folders, boxes and sleeves as required.
- Work with archival description software to develop records, which may include descriptive inventories and name authority information.
- Identify and flag content that may be considered sensitive or culturally inappropriate.
- Physically process materials for inclusion in the local history and archival collection according to classification rules and identified standards.
- Scan or photograph identified resources in priority collections, working with digital files as needed, creating or connecting resources to records.
- Create documentation and resources for internal and external users to understand the scope of the collection, how to access resources and conduct research, and how to use available technology.
- Develop and facilitate programming and outreach related to the local history and archival collection.
- Develop content to promote the local history and archival collection on the library website, social media channels, and through other marketing channels including local newspapers.
- Provide research support and customer service to local history and archival customers both in-person and electronically using equipment in the local history and archival area and collections.
- Provide customer service to library patrons and support circulation service point.

**QUALIFICATIONS**:

- Degree or diploma in museum studies, archival studies, library studies/techniques, or related discipline preferred, or equivalent experience
- Demonstrated experience in library/heritage/culture sector
- Excellent attention to detail, problem solving, and organizational skills
- Familiarity with archival description and cataloguing standards
- Strong technology skills, including proficiency in standard office software
- Ability to lift and move materials up to 50 lbs
- Be able to work collaboratively and independently
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills

**Assets**:

- Bilingual (English/French)
- Archival relevant experience - archival storage standards, developing records

**Terms of employment**:

- Position is a full-time contract, anticipated until March 31, 2026.
- $24.00 per hour plus statutory vacation and public holiday pay

This role is partially funded by Young Canada Works: Building Careers in Heritage. Applicants must meet the following requirements:

- Are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident or have refugee status in Canada (non-Canadian holding temporary work visas or awaiting permanent resident status are not eligible);
- are legally entitled to work in Canada (have a valid social insurance number);
- are between 16 and 30 years of age inclusively at the start of employment;
- are a college or university graduate (certificate, bachelor's, master's or doctorate).

**APPLICATION PROCESS**:
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

**Job Types**: Full-time, Internship / Co-op
Contract length: 9 months

Pay: $24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

Schedule:

- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Evening shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-05-20
Expected start date: 2025-07-07