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Book ConservatorNew

Applications are closed

  • Job
    Full-time
    Mid & Senior Level
  • Research & Development
    Creative Arts & Fashion
  • Glasgow

Requirements

  • A1 Either: ability to demonstrate the competencies required to undertake the duties associated with this level of post having acquired the necessary knowledge and skills through personal development and progression in a similar related role(s) Or: Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 8, (Scottish Vocational Qualification Level 4, Higher National Diploma) or equivalent and experience of personal development in a similar role.
  • A2 Specialist in-depth knowledge and understanding of current practical book conservation treatment approaches Knowledge of early printed book and medieval manuscript codicology and structures.
  • A3 Knowledge of all Health and Safety requirements of a Conservation studio.
  • A4 Knowledge of appropriate IT applications (Microsoft Office 365 in particular).
  • B1 A recognised post-graduate qualification in a relevant conservation discipline.
  • B2 ICON Accredited membership of The Institute of Conservation, or evidence of working towards accreditation.
  • B3 Knowledge of the collections management system EMu.
  • C1 Proven organisational skills with the ability to work on and prioritise multiple tasks simultaneously to agreed deadlines.
  • C2 Demonstrable analytical skills, with the ability to analyse a range of rare book and manuscript materials and use critical thinking and initiative to reach appropriate conclusions relating to their treatment.
  • C3 Specialist craft skills, a high degree of accuracy and proven manual dexterity in undertaking complex conservation benchwork.
  • C4 A high degree of motivation and the ability to work both alone and in and across teams to progress objectives.
  • C5 Effective interpersonal skills with ability to build effective professional working relationships.
  • C6 Close attention to detail and accuracy of data recording and documentation of activities.
  • C7 Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the particular ability to explain complex conservation approaches and co-ordinate across teams.
  • E1 Significant practical experience post qualification in carrying out conservation on pre-1800 printed books and manuscripts.
  • E2 Experience of managing and delivering projects successfully to agreed deadlines.
  • E3 Demonstrable continuing engagement with development of current professional practice.
  • F1 Experience of working in a research library environment.
  • F2 Experience of supporting digitisation projects, undertaking conservation assessment and treatment of items, and supporting effective workflows across teams.
  • F3 Supervisory experience of managing professional staff, interns, or volunteer staff effectively.
  • F4 Experience of promoting conservation and preservation activities in creative and dynamic ways to a range of audiences.

Responsibilities

  • To project manage and undertake the full range of specialist and complex interventive work in conserving rare and valuable books and codex manuscripts in consultation with the Head of Conservation & Preservation. This includes; rebinding, rebacking, resewing, board reattachments, spine repairs, board consolidation, text block repair to allow the safe display and future preservation of material from ASC collections.
  • To implement best practice in collection care by providing advice and full documentation (including photographs) of interventive treatments. To maintain relevant data in accordance with departmental procedures enabling compilation of statistics for internal reporting and ensuring ongoing accessibility of documentation.
  • To use expertise in assessing and preparing rare book material for digitisation, loan, use in teaching, transport, exhibition and display, making recommendations for safe use and display and exercising creativity in providing solutions to challenges encountered.
  • To assist the Preservation Manager in delivering collection handling induction sessions for Library staff and users of collections, and in implementing other good practice initiatives to ensure the future preservation of ASC collections.
  • To contribute expert knowledge in the development and management of all ASC collections care-related policies, and programmes. Keep abreast of current developments within the field of paper and book conservation and maintain CPD.
  • To support the Library’s programme of student placements, overseeing and supervising placements as directed by the Head of Conservation & Preservation.
  • To develop effective working relationships with Library Collections colleagues, particularly with ASC Engagement Team and the University Photographic Unit, to enable efficient working processes and clear communication supporting delivery of services.
  • To promote the teaching and research value of ASC collections and encourage scholarly use of them, within the University and in the wider academic and public community, by contributing to various student engagement and public outreach activities (such as talks, production of blogs and other social media).
  • To support Library Collections’ and University’s wide-ranging activities; contributing to the delivery of services and the development of collections; responding constructively to ad hoc requests; and engaging with longer-term development and enhancement programmes.
  • To contribute to the enhancement of the University in line with the University’s Strategic Plan, World Changers Together.

FAQs

What is the job title for this position?

The job title is Book Conservator.

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary range is Grade 6, £33,482 - £37,174 per annum.

What is the location of the job?

The job is located in Glasgow.

What is the duration of the contract?

This post is full time and fixed term for up to 12 months from the start date.

What are the main responsibilities of a Book Conservator?

The main responsibilities include project managing and undertaking conservation work on rare books, providing documentation of treatments, assessing materials for digitisation, assisting with preservation practices, and engaging in outreach activities.

What qualifications are necessary for this role?

Candidates should have either relevant experience in a similar role, or a Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 8 qualification or equivalent, alongside in-depth knowledge of book conservation treatment approaches and related skills.

Is a postgraduate qualification in conservation required?

No, a recognised postgraduate qualification is desirable but not essential.

What type of experience is required?

Significant practical experience in conservation on pre-1800 printed books and manuscripts, project management experience, and ongoing engagement with professional practice are required.

Are there opportunities for professional development?

Yes, the role includes a commitment to ongoing professional development and awareness of current developments in the field of conservation.

Is there support for health and wellbeing?

Yes, the University provides support for health and wellbeing, including a free 6-month UofG Sport membership for new staff.

What type of working environment can be expected?

The environment promotes a warm, welcoming culture that values diversity, inclusion, and employee engagement.

What does the University of Glasgow value in its employees?

The University values equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from a diverse range of candidates, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

How many days of leave are provided for full-time staff?

Full-time staff are entitled to 41 days of leave annually.

Does the role involve any supervisory responsibilities?

Yes, the role includes supervising placements of students and potentially managing professional staff, interns, or volunteers.

What tools or systems should applicants be familiar with?

Applicants should have knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 and familiarity with collections management systems like EMu is desirable.

When is the closing date for applications?

The closing date for applications is 23:45 on 1st June 2025.

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Our mission is to undertake leading-edge, internationally-competitive research while offering a challenging student-centred learning environment. Through our status as a leading international university, we aim to sustain and add value to Scottish culture and society, to the natural environment and to the national economy.

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