{"id":10240,"date":"2026-04-16T10:31:50","date_gmt":"2026-04-16T17:31:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/?p=10240"},"modified":"2026-04-16T10:32:35","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T17:32:35","slug":"the-library-of-congress-cataloging-and-acquisitions-librarian","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/the-library-of-congress-cataloging-and-acquisitions-librarian\/","title":{"rendered":"The Library of Congress: cataloging and acquisitions librarian"},"content":{"rendered":"<h3>Summary<\/h3>\n<p>This position is located in the China Section, Asian And Middle Eastern Division, Acquisitions &amp; Bibliographic Access Directorate, Discovery And Preservation Services.<\/p>\n<p>The position description number for this position is 457104.<\/p>\n<p>The salary range indicated re\ufb02ects the locality pay adjustments for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area.<\/p>\n<p>The incumbent of this position will work a Flexitime work schedule.<\/p>\n<p>This is a non-supervisory, bargaining unit position.<\/p>\n<div class=\"flex flex-row justify-between\">\n<h3>Duties<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<p><strong>Relocation expenses will not be authorized for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Catalogs a variety of materials in an automated cataloging environment where the bibliographic characteristics of the material are relatively easy to determine, and cataloging decisions are made within established standards. Searches entries in automated and manual catalogs. Assigns headings to catalog entries. Selects and assigns classi\ufb01cation numbers. Establishes personal and corporate names and uniform titles for inclusion in the name authority \ufb01le. Establishes and recommends subject headings for inclusion in the subject authority \ufb01le and classi\ufb01cation schedule. Creates and revises bibliographic records, authority records, and classi\ufb01cation schedules. Performs content designation of bibliographic and authority records. Performs research in the cataloger&#8217;s reference collection, online databases, the world wide web, and the collections of the Library. Recommends resolutions to problems and inconsistencies in the cataloging process.<\/p>\n<p>Provides services and deals with materials that are non-technical in nature, of limited technical complexity, or easily acquired. Coordinates proper purchasing information, correct bibliographic identi\ufb01cation, and correct coding in the information system. Contacts dealers, subscription agents, vendors, overseas of\ufb01ces, government agencies, and\/or exchange partners to coordinate the order process. Consults acquisitions reference material to determine whether recommended item is appropriate for purchase, copyright claim, exchange, gift, loan, or other type of acquisition. Examines recommendations for acquisition to identify processing and custodial requirements and to identify acquisition of out-of-scope materials. Maintains liaison with recommending of\ufb01cials and subject specialists to understand their needs. Consults acquisitions reference material to determine whether recommended item is appropriate for purchase. Reviews and approves invoices for payment for all formats of material. Determines availability of funds.<\/p>\n<p>Obtains, analyzes, and organizes information using standard reference tools and established techniques and practices. Analyzes and organizes standard subject data to determine its relationship to the existing collections, for preferred access points and the need for additional access points. Analyzes material to determine subject content. Applies standard rules, guidelines, and reference tools and established techniques and practices. Participates in formulating plans for changes and improvements to cataloging-related issues.<\/p>\n<p>Uses standard methods, techniques, concepts, and principles to perform assignments related to collection development support, with review by supervisor, senior staff and\/or recommending of\ufb01cers. Assists in examination of incoming shipments to select items appropriate for the collections, in accordance with established guidelines. Assists in examination of recommendations for acquisition to identify processing and custodial requirements, and to ensure conformity with established guidelines. Participates in formulating plans for changes and improvements to collection development policies.<\/p>\n<p>Works to maintain personal contacts and cooperative work relationships in order to provide or exchange information. Consults with the supervisor and cataloging policy staff to recommend changes and additions in descriptive and subject cataloging rules. Offers suggestions and advice to the supervisor on operational and technical problems. Collaborates with the supervisor and other staff in planning and implementing team activities including work\ufb02ow procedures, team priorities, cataloging projects of an experimental nature, goal setting and strategies for meeting team production goals. Assists others inside and outside the Library with language, subject and cataloging problems.<\/p>\n<p>A foreign language is required for this position in the geographical area for which cataloging or acquisitions functions are performed. Must be able to speak, listen, read, and write in a speci\ufb01c foreign language that the incumbent is selected for in that geographical area for which cataloging or acquisitions functions are being performed. Must be able to speak, listen, read, and write \ufb02uently in English. Must be able to communicate intended meaning in straightforward, everyday conversations and routine, work-related interactions. Must be able to adequately understand straightforward spoken language on everyday topics, including routine work-related matters. Must be able to adequately understand straightforward written material on everyday topics, including routine work-related matters. Must be able to adequately write straightforward documents and participate in everyday exchanges for routine work requirements and most correspondence.<\/p>\n<p>Performs other duties as assigned.<\/p>\n<div class=\"flex flex-row justify-between\">\n<h3>Requirements<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<h3><strong>Conditions of employment<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Library of Congress employees are prohibited from using illegal drugs, including marijuana. The Library is part of the Federal Government and abides by federal law, so regardless of individual state or District of Columbia laws, marijuana use is illegal, considered criminal activity, and can affect your employment at the Library. In addition, past or current drug use and activities (e.g., selling or distributing) may deem you ineligible for employment.<\/p>\n<h3>Qualifications<\/h3>\n<p>Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ability to communicate in Chinese, English, and preferably Mongolian or Tibetan.**<\/li>\n<li>Knowledge of library metadata rules, practices, and procedures.**<\/li>\n<li>Ability to acquire and process library materials.**<\/li>\n<li>Ability to use library software applications, integrated library platforms, and other information technology.**<\/li>\n<li>Ability to communicate in writing.<\/li>\n<li>Knowledge of history, politics, literature, and culture of greater China.<\/li>\n<li>Ability to develop and maintain relationships and provide consultation and liaison services.<\/li>\n<li>Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div>\n<h3>Education<\/h3>\n<p>All librarians must meet the requirements for professional education in library science or possess equivalent experience and education.<\/p>\n<p>A.\u00a0 Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor&#8217;s degree;<\/p>\n<p><strong>or<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>B.\u00a0 A total of at least 5 years of a combination of college-level education, training, and experience. To qualify on this basis, the applicant must establish conclusively that the education, training, and experience provided knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and techniques of professional librarianship; a knowledge of literature resources; and the knowledge and abilities essential for providing effective library and information services.<\/p>\n<p>Additional Education And Experience Requirements for Positions at GS-9 and Above<\/p>\n<p>In addition to meeting the basic entry qualification requirements, applicants must have directly related education and\/or specialized experience in the amounts required for the grade level as shown in the following table.<\/p>\n<p>2 full years of progressively higher level graduate education or master&#8217;s in library science or equivalent graduate degree, e.g., LL.B. or J.D., related to the position.<\/p>\n<p>You\u00a0MUST\u00a0submit a\u00a0legible copy\u00a0of your college\/university transcripts\u00a0to your online application. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at the time of application. Official transcripts will be required if selected.\u00a0Failure to submit the required legible documentation at the time of application will result in disqualification of your application.<\/p>\n<p>Foreign Education<strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0<\/strong>Education completed outside the U.S. must be deemed equivalent to conventional\/accredited U.S. education programs to be acceptable for Federal employment.\u00a0If your\u00a0college\/university is outside the U.S., your\u00a0transcripts must be accompanied by a report from a credential evaluation service that is a member of the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.naces.org\/members.html\">National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)<\/a>\u00a0or the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/aice-eval.org\/members\/\">Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE)<\/a>.\u00a0Failure to submit a foreign education evaluation report will result in disqualification of your application.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h3>Additional information<\/h3>\n<div id=\"readmore-btueis\" class=\"group\" data-expanded=\"true\">\n<div class=\"group-data-[expanded=false]:h-15 group-data-[expanded=false]:mask-b-from-0 print:!h-full overflow-hidden\" data-read-more=\"\">\n<p>Although\u00a0it is the Library&#8217;s policy to afford the maximum pay benefit to employees when setting rates of pay, a new appointee who has had no previous Federal service will generally be paid at step one of the grade.<\/p>\n<p>The Library of Congress is an equal opportunity employer.<\/p>\n<p>Applicants must submit a complete application package that is received by the closing date of this announcement.<\/p>\n<p>Appointment\/retention is subject to a favorable evaluation of an appropriate personnel security\/suitability investigation. For more information, please see:<a title=\"Vetting Process\" href=\"https:\/\/www.loc.gov\/careers\/working-at-the-library\/frequently-asked-questions\/vetting-personnel-at-the-library\/\" rel=\"noreferrer\">Vetting Process<\/a><\/p>\n<p>This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please email ADA@loc.gov. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be determined on a case-by-case basis.<\/p>\n<p>Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position.\u00a0The proof or disability\/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant\u2019s college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter\u00a0must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application.\u00a0\u00a0Certification from health care providers are not accepted.\u00a0For more information contact the Library&#8217;s Office of Equal Employment Opportunity at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.<\/p>\n<p>The Library of Congress is the national library of the United States and is part of the Legislative Branch of the Federal government. As such, all positions are in the excepted service.<\/p>\n<p>The Library reserves the right to fill a lesser or greater number of vacancies indicated during the life of this vacancy announcement.<\/p>\n<p>Initial permanent appointments to the Library of Congress require completion of a one-year probationary period. Probationary periods served at other Federal agencies do not count toward this requirement.<\/p>\n<p>The Library of Congress may offer repayment for all or part of federally insured student loans. However, not all service units\u00a0within the Library of Congress participates in the repayment of federally insured student loans. Therefore, determination to repay a federally insured student loan is subject to approval by the appropriate service unit.<\/p>\n<p>A \u201cNot to Exceed&#8221; (NTE) status is used to identify an appointment with a specific ending date. However, the Library has the right to separate a NTE employee at any time due to either performance issues or budget constraints.<\/p>\n<p>Are you a veteran?\u00a0 Please indicate the type of veterans&#8217; preference you are claiming in your application materials and\/or applicant profile and provide the appropriate supporting documentation to validate your claim.\u00a0 Those applying for 5-point preference must submit Member Copy 4 of your DD 214.\u00a0 Those applying for 10-point preference must fill out an SF-15 (click\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.opm.gov\/forms\/pdf_fill\/SF15.pdf\">here<\/a>\u00a0for the form) and provide the required documentation listed on the back of the form.\u00a0 If required supporting documentation is not attached, Veterans&#8217; Preference will not be considered in the application process.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>To Apply: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usajobs.gov\/job\/865379700\">https:\/\/www.usajobs.gov\/job\/865379700<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Summary This position is located in the China Section, Asian And Middle Eastern Division, Acquisitions &amp; Bibliographic Access Directorate, Discovery And Preservation Services. The position description number for this position is 457104. The salary range indicated re\ufb02ects the locality pay adjustments for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area. The incumbent of this position will work a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[13,7],"tags":[330,165,291],"ppma_author":[294],"class_list":{"0":"post-10240","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","6":"category-all","7":"category-jobs","8":"tag-chinese-acquisition","9":"tag-chinese-cataloging","10":"tag-chinese-technical-services","11":"czr-hentry"},"authors":[{"term_id":294,"user_id":1,"is_guest":0,"slug":"admin","display_name":"admin","avatar_url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e9a78a588f1cc8acbe829db32339c58a3307db9301a2847f862d373028783787?s=96&d=mm&r=g","0":null,"1":"","2":"","3":"","4":"","5":"","6":"","7":"","8":""}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10240","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10240"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10240\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10244,"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10240\/revisions\/10244"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10240"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10240"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10240"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.eastasianlib.org\/newsite\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=10240"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}