Exhibits Associate - Library Associate 2

Classification Title:

Library Associate 2

Job Description:

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting to the Exhibits Director, the Exhibits Associate is responsible for contributing to the daily operations of the exhibitions program including curatorial support throughout the exhibition development process. Communicates and collaborates with exhibit curators and personnel in various departments and units of the Libraries to plan, design, install, and promote exhibits. Liaises with digital and preservation personnel to ensure the preservation of and access to exhibit objects. Along with the Exhibits Director, manages 11 exhibit areas across the Libraries and additional pop-up and flex spaces, including furniture and technology. Writes and edits interpretive text for exhibitions. Trains personnel engaged in exhibit curation on exhibit policies, procedures, and best practices. Designs and curates online and traveling exhibitions. Communicates with a diverse population of stakeholders, including donors, lenders, and members of the UF and Gainesville communities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Exhibit Program

Together with the Exhibits Director and curators across the Libraries, develops exhibit topics, selects objects, and edits interpretive text for exhibitions. The Exhibits Associate independently oversees approximately 25% (4-6 exhibits annually) of all exhibit development within the Libraries and all exhibits in absence of the Exhibits Director. Participates in all aspects of installation and de-installation. Creates digital and multimedia exhibit components, including online exhibits. Works with the Libraries’ Social Media Coordinator to develop content highlighting the Exhibits Program. Compiles reports, prepares documentation and statistical information relevant to the Exhibits Program. Collaborates with university personnel and community stakeholders to promote exhibits to a wide audience. Ensures all exhibits adhere to existing policies and best practices.

Panama Canal Museum Collection

Assists the Curator of the Panama Canal Museum Collection in researching, developing, and curating exhibitions from the Panama Canal Museum Collection, including annual exhibitions in the Albert H. Nahmad Panama Canal Gallery, at the Panama Canal Society Reunion, online, and at other traveling venues as appropriate. Writes and edits interpretive text for exhibitions. Collaborates with a diverse group of stakeholders, including personnel in the Department of Special & Area Studies Collections and the Friends of the Panama Canal Museum Collection.

Training and Professional Development

Trains and supervises faculty, staff, interns, and student assistants in exhibit policies, procedures, and best practices during development and installation. May also train and supervise OPS, interns, and student assistants in daily work. Maintains up to date knowledge of best practices in displaying cultural heritage and public history. Participates in regional, national, and international professional organizations and conferences.

Develops and maintains efficient systems for managing program equipment and materials. Develops and maintains professional peer contacts with partner organizations and internal staff in order stay current in subject area. Assists with educational outreach and promotional efforts. Consults with preservation personnel to ensure objects meet necessary standards for display.

Other Duties

Serves on library committees and participates in special projects as assigned. Participates in professional development opportunities as needed. Performs other duties as assigned.

Expected Salary:

$41,930; Actual salary will reflect selected professional’s experience and credentials

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree and four years of related library experience; or a master’s degree and two years of related library experience; or any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Curatorial or exhibit design experience in an academic setting
• Bachelor’s degree in Art History, History, Public History, or Anthropology
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud and/or graphic design
• Demonstrated experience presenting and/or interpreting diverse subjects for public learning
• Ability to plan, manage and complete complex projects
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with faculty, students, administrators and the general public
• Ability to coordinate numerous and diverse, concurrent programs
• Experience with web publishing platforms such as Wordpress
• Flexibility, and ability to adapt and work in a rapidly changing academic environment
• Supervisory experience
• Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Application Process

To apply, submit

• a cover letter detailing your interest in, and qualifications for this position
• your current resume or CV
• a list of three references including their contact information (telephone number and
• email address)

Apply by October 14, 2021, applications will be reviewed as received. Submit all application materials through the Jobs at UF online application system. If you have any questions or concerns about this process, please contact Tina Marie Litchfield, George A. Smathers Libraries Human Resources Office, at tlitchfield@uflib.ufl.edu .

Health Assessment Required: No