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Metadata Library Jobs in British Columbia (NOW HIRING)

Staff - Union Job Category CUPE 2950 Job ProfileCUPE 2950 Salaried - Library Specialist 2 (Gr10 ... related metadata maintenance, year-end roll-up, creating new fund codes following structure and ...

Implement hybrid and metadata-filtered retrieval strategies, and tune them against measured ... Write clean, tested, maintainable Python; contribute to shared libraries and internal tooling.

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Metadata Library information

What is a metadata librarian?

Metadata librarians are information professionals who manage and organize metadata, which is data that describes other data, for library collections. They create, edit, and maintain metadata records to ensure resources are discoverable, accessible, and properly described in library catalogs and digital repositories. Their work supports searchability, digital preservation, and resource sharing by applying standards and best practices for cataloging. Metadata librarians often collaborate with IT staff, archivists, and subject specialists to enhance user access to library materials.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a metadata librarian?

To thrive as a Metadata Librarian, you need expertise in cataloging standards (such as MARC, Dublin Core), metadata schema, and information organization, usually supported by a Master's in Library Science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), metadata management tools, and knowledge of cataloging software like OCLC Connexion is typical. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and facilitate collaboration with library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial to maintaining accessible, well-organized digital and print collections that support user discovery and research.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in a metadata library role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a metadata library role often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency and accuracy in metadata standards across diverse collections, keeping up with evolving cataloging guidelines, and integrating new technologies or platforms. Addressing these challenges typically involves ongoing training, collaboration with colleagues to develop clear metadata policies, and staying informed about industry best practices. Regular communication with IT teams and subject specialists is also key to ensuring that metadata effectively supports discoverability and access for library users.

What is the difference between Metadata Library vs Metadata Specialist?

AspectMetadata LibraryMetadata Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in library science, information management, or related fieldsRequires similar credentials, often with additional certifications in data management or information systems
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, or information centers managing large metadata collectionsData-driven organizations, digital repositories, or information management teams
Employer & IndustryLibraries, museums, archives, academic institutionsTech companies, publishing, digital content providers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding library metadata management rolesSpecialized data and metadata management tasks

The main difference is that a Metadata Library focuses on managing metadata within library and archival settings, while a Metadata Specialist handles metadata in broader digital and data environments. Both roles require similar credentials but serve different industry needs.

What are popular job titles related to Metadata Library jobs in British Columbia?

For Metadata Library jobs in British Columbia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Metadata Library jobs in British Columbia look for?

The top searched job categories for Metadata Library jobs in British Columbia are:

Infographic showing various Metadata Library job openings in British Columbia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Monograph Acquisitions Coordinator

Vancouver, BC • On-site


Ubc
5 - 10K employees

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 12 rated unions

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


CA$5.1K - CA$5.9K/mo

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Staff - UnionJob CategoryCUPE 2950Job ProfileCUPE 2950 Salaried - Library Specialist 2 (Gr10)Job TitleMonograph Acquisitions CoordinatorDepartmentUBC Library | Collections Services | Monographs Acquisitions and ManagementCompensation Range$5,186.00 - $5,998.00 CAD MonthlyPosting End DateAugust 21, 2026

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date

Ongoing

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.


Job Summary

Responsible for the overall supervision and coordination of the Acquisitions Unit to ensure its services are delivered effectively and efficiently. Responds to complex inquiries and resolves problems and disputes as a resource person for the collection's acquisitions function across the University. Assists the Collections Services Librarian, Monograph Acquisitions & Management, with developing and supervising special projects.
Organizational Status

Reports to and works under the general direction of the Collections Services Librarian, Monograph Acquisitions & Management. Works closely with other Collection Services colleagues, cataloguers, , and fund managers throughout the Library. Works closely with Library Finance and library leadership to ensure that Library acquisition policies are followed and that Library collections funds are expended efficiently, effectively and on time.
Work Performed

  • Acts as functional expert system-wide for Library acquisitions of monographs, streaming, and other one-time purchases by leading the development of Monograph Acquisitions policies, procedures and services, by establishing Monograph Acquisitions operations priorities, and by planning, developing, supervising and executing special library Monograph Acquisitions projects. Organizes and creates ongoing training programs for Monograph Acquisitions management tools (ILS, local and vendor databases). Acts as a resource for all units by advising branch staff on Monograph Acquisitions to ensure common understanding and consistency of Monograph Acquisitions policy and procedure. Establishes and maintains an open relationship with colleagues system-wide.
  • Oversees and supervises the operation and co-ordination of the Collections Services Monograph Acquisitions team. Develops the team's training manuals and documentation and ensures that policy and procedural guidelines are available and understandable for staff using appropriate communication and reporting tools.
  • Coordinates and implements all acquisitions functions in the ILS and other acquisitions tools such as managing and monitoring loading of records, EDI, acquisitions related metadata maintenance, year-end roll-up, creating new fund codes following structure and guidelines and other related activities.
  • Responsible for ensuring vendors' compliance with the scope of institutional agreements. In coordination with the Librarian, works with vendors to maximize services and efficiencies and optimize Library expenditures.
  • Performs financial functions such as receiving complex payments, assisting with budget and forecasting requests. Responsible for coordination of P-card purchases and documentation for monthly reconciliation.
  • Assists the Librarian in the coordination of library approval and firm order acquisitions including monitoring budget expenditures to meet fiscal year requirements.
  • Serves as member of Collections Services management team to establish, maintain and improve current policies and practices.
  • Provides ongoing support for the Librarian in planning unit workflows and adjusting to meet project needs.
  • Compiles and analyses Monograph Acquisitions related statistics for unit and institutional reporting purposes.
  • Monitors performance of the Monograph Acquisitions unit staff and provides feedback to the Librarian.
  • Provides input and makes recommendations for recruitment and selection of staff.
  • Acts as a supervisory and operational backup to the Serials unit.
  • Performs other duties related to the qualifications and requirements of the job.

Consequence of Error/Judgement


Works independently under broad direction. Work is performed within authorized prescribed limits and approved plans.Exercises independent judgement in selecting and interpreting information, reconciling deviations from standard methods and determining when it is appropriate to refer for decision making that will impact library expenditures. Job tasks are governed generally by broad instructions, objectives, and policies, usually involving frequently changing conditions and priorities. Assigned tasks make it necessary to determine what data and quality of data are required to make reliable decisions. Job duties cover work of an advanced technical and/or analytical nature. Required to use initiative, interpretation, and/or ingenuity to develop, implement, and evaluate innovative procedures, practices, standards, specifications, services, or projects. Incomplete investigation and reporting will impact the access to resources and library expenditures. Inconsistent or poor communication with branch staff and vendors could damage relationships.
Supervision Received

Position is accountable to the Collections Services Librarian, Monograph Acquisitions & Management, who also provides daily supervision and conducts performance reviews.
Supervision Given

Supervises 4 to 8 FTE. Coordinates and schedules day to day work. Monitors performance and provides feedback to manager. Provides input and makes recommendations for recruitment and selection of staff. Formally trains new staff on work procedures. Resolves some personnel issues and refers and escalates to the Librarian as appropriate. Provides supervision to Monograph Acquisitions unit staff as required.
Minimum Qualifications
High School graduation, plus two year Library Technician diploma, plus five years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one's own

- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one's own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion


Preferred Qualifications


Knowledge of library system modules such as acquisitions, cataloguing, serials management, and public access. Knowledge of University and Library policies and procedures, including Acquisitions operations. Experience in a large, complex, multi-disciplinary research institution preferred. Ability to read one or more foreign languages an asset. Ability to effectively use word processing, spreadsheets, database applications at an advanced level (MS Office and Voyager preferred). Working knowledge of HTML an asset. Ability to provide quality service to customers in a courteous, patient manner. Proven public services, customer service and conflict resolution skills. Ability to effectively recruit, train, supervise, and motivate employees. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Ability to develop and deliver effective presentation and workshops. Ability to operate the normal range of library equipment. Ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to prioritize work, work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines. Ability to exercise tact and discretion. Ability to work independently and in a team environment. Ability to coordinate the work of other staff.



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