Job Description

Your Opportunity

We’re looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Cataloguer to join our Library Technical Services team in Didcot, Oxfordshire.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a strong background in library cataloguing and technical services to play an important role in ensuring library resources are accurately classified, catalogued and easily accessible.

Working with a wide range of library materials, you’ll use your knowledge of recognised cataloguing standards, classification systems and metadata management to maintain high-quality bibliographic records.

You'll also contribute to the smooth running of our account processing activities, supporting the delivery of excellent library services to our customers.

This is a fully on-site role based at our Didcot office, working 37.5 hours per week.

What You'll Do

• Carry out full-level cataloguing of library materials, ensuring records meet RDA standards and relevant Library of Congress policies.
• Assign appropriate subject headings and classification numbers using systems including Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), Library of Congress Classification (LCC), Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC), Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and National Library of Medicine (NLM).
• Create, update and enhance bibliographic records using MARC 21 and other metadata formats.
• Research and verify bibliographic information using OCLC, the Library of Congress Catalogue and other authoritative sources.
• Upgrade preliminary and less-than-full-level cataloguing records to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Generate and deliver files, production paperwork and customised bibliographic records to support Library Technical Services.
• Work closely with the Book Processing Unit to coordinate spine labels and shelf-ready book requirements.
• Support Library Technical Services Specialists and the wider Cataloguing team with day-to-day activities.
• Contribute to the development of departmental processes, policies and quality standards, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and service delivery.

About You

You'll bring previous experience in library technical services or a strong understanding of library operations, alongside a solid technical knowledge of cataloguing standards and classification systems.

We're particularly interested in candidates who have:

• Demonstrable experience of applying RDA cataloguing guidelines and MARC 21 bibliographic standards, particularly for monographs.
• Strong knowledge of Library of Congress Classification and Subject Headings and/or Dewey Decimal Classification.
• Experience using cataloguing tools such as OCLC Connexion, LC Classification Web, Cataloger's Desktop and OCLC WebDewey.
• Familiarity with authority files, subject analysis and the Library of Congress Subject Cataloging Manual.
• Strong IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and web-based applications.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to maintain high standards of accuracy and quality.
• knowledge/experience of MOYS classification will be desirable

You'll also be someone who:

• Enjoys working in a fast-paced, production-driven environment and can manage changing priorities.
• Has strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the confidence to tackle complex or ambiguous situations.
• Is adaptable, organised and comfortable managing multiple tasks and interruptions.
• Works collaboratively and builds effective relationships with colleagues across different teams.
• Communicates clearly and confidently, both verbally and in writing.
• Takes a proactive approach to identifying process improvements and finding better ways of working.

If you're passionate about library cataloguing, have a strong technical understanding and enjoy being part of a collaborative team, we'd love to hear from you!