State Librarian Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Iowa State University Library is seeking applications for a Lennox AV Preservation Librarian (Librarian I) who will support the library in maintaining long-term access to unique and rare sound recordings and moving image collections. This is a new, full-time term position that is funded by both the Col. Gary G. Swenson Ph.D. endowment and the Lennox Foundation endowment for one year. As a member of the Preservation department, they will work closely with other members in support of the mission and vision of the division: to provide long-term access to evolving collections and collaborate in the creation of new knowledge.

The Lennox AV Preservation Librarian is primarily responsible for assisting in the maintenance and care of the Special Collections & University Archives (SCUA) audiovisual collections and digital conversion of AV and film materials. In cooperation with SCUA and Preservation staff, this role will be instrumental in implementing preservation and digitization priorities for the collection. They will work with vendors and manage digital conversion projects, provide recommendations for preservation storage for both analog and digital masters, and assist in incorporating AV materials into the library digital collections. The Lennox AV Preservation Librarian may help manage equipment to facilitate reformatting and playback of analog AV collections.

The successful candidate will have experience with archival audiovisual collections and will provide preservation care, handling, conversion of AV materials to digital formats, and recommending digital preservation and storage practices. The candidate will possess the ability to interact effectively with library staff and the university community and work collaboratively in a team-based environment. This position will perform physical activities associated with preservation environments which include regular lifting of up to 40lbs. and moving loaded book trucks weighing up to 300 lbs. This position also responds to disaster salvage of library materials and will be an active member in fulfilling the land-grant mission of the university by participating in state-level disaster response as needed.

The library is committed to supporting all librarians through mentoring, training, and professional development opportunities to foster success and growth in their work. The Lennox AV Preservation Librarian will be supported in the pursuit of continued learning relevant to their position and encouraged to share their skills with their colleagues at ISU and beyond.

Example of Duties:

• Assist with managing film and audiovisual collection storage.
• Conduct surveys and assessments of AV materials.
• Develop and manage projects for rehousing, inventory, and storage.
• Support environmental monitoring and integrated pest management.
• Collect and report AV preservation statistics.
• Collaborate across library departments to support collection goals.
• Assist with disaster preparedness, salvage, and recovery activities.
• Coordinate and prepare materials for reformatting and digitization projects.
• Perform quality control for in-house and vendor digitization projects.
• Research and recommend preservation specifications for physical and digital AV materials.
• Evaluate and assist with hardware and digitization software.
• Create and maintain appropriate administrative and descriptive metadata.
• Maintain audiovisual studios and equipment, including installation, repairs, and upgrades.
• Recommend preservation formats and long-term storage solutions for digital AV materials.
• Prepare digitized media for access and fulfill reference and research requests.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with digital and analog audiovisual formats, technologies, and standards and best practices for preservation, storage, digitization, playback, and access.
• Previous experience handling and transferring archival film, sound, and video recordings, and working with third-party vendors.
• Ability to operate and perform basic troubleshooting for a variety of AV playback and scanning equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects of limited scope and complexity.

This posting will be open until filled. However, to receive full consideration, please apply before September 15th, 2026.

This position is a one-year term appointment.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.