Preservation and Digitization Student Assistant

The Position

Job Title: Preservation and Digitization Student Assistant

Location/Department: Seattle Campus – Preservation Services

Rate: $21.30/hr

Hours: 10 to 19.5 hours per week, Mon -Fri between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Positions available: 1

Date posted: December 8, 2025

Closing date: December 15, 2025

Start date: January 5, 2026 (negotiable)

Duties

• Digitizes, scans, and photographs rare and often fragile collection materials in adherence with existing workflows.
• Performs complex bibliographic searching of library databases and catalogs.
• Prepares materials for digital imaging including evaluating condition, counting pages, and creating structural metadata.
• Ensures quality control of newly digitized and/or newly bound materials.
• Packs and ships to/from digitization and other vendors.
• Prepare new library materials (books and other media) for circulation by property stamping and applying call number labels.
• Create and edit call number labels using the library catalog and specialized software.
• Route labeled materials to the appropriate library unit for shelving.
• Update the location of library materials in the library catalog as they are routed from Preservation to other libraries or units.
• Load, unload, and move full book carts.
• Set aside materials needing repair or stabilization before labeling and shelving.
• Provide basic assistance to library staff regarding procedures and location of materials.
• Perform cleaning of library materials and shelves/storage areas as needed.
• Assist with the preparation of materials for commercial binding.
• Assist with special projects and other department duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Very high level of attention to detail with repetitive tasks, following established procedures.
• Proven ability to handle fragile materials with care and good judgement.
• Capacity to quickly learn new technologies and complex workflows.
• Strong commitment to serving a diverse group of users and staff.
• Ability to work independently and follow established procedures and adhere to industry standards.
• Ability to communicate clearly with supervisors, coworkers, and other library staff.
• Ability to work with historic and Indigenous materials with sensitivity to cultural considerations.

Other Job Details

•  No previous library experience needed.
• On-the-job training is provided.

Department

Preservation Services’ Mission is to care for, and enhance access to, the University of Washington Libraries collections that advance research, teaching, and learning. We manage many programs designed to extend the life of our collections and provide centralized preservation services for library materials in all formats.

How to Apply

The following supplemental materials are required. A single PDF or Microsoft Word file containing both items is preferred.

Please name your file using the following format: LastName_FirstName.docx/pdf
• Cover letter
• Resumé

Upload your cover letter and resume to the form above with your student NetID.

Application process tips and more information about working at the Libraries

Equal opportunity and accommodation information

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected].