MLIS 2005
Chief Cataloger, Manuscripts
Huntington Library
San Marino, CA USA

What I am doing now.

I am currently in charge of all cataloging and processing done in the Manuscripts Department at the Huntington Library. I check all finding aids and OCLC records and upload all records into our online catalog. I also make our finding aids available online on the Online Archive of California and the Huntington Digital Library.

I also train all new catalogers, volunteers, and interns in cataloging. I keep up on current archival standards, attend conferences and workshops, etc., and make sure my department and fellow catalogers are following correct protocols and guidelines.

I also get to catalog (when I have time). I catalog manuscripts, creating finding aids when necessary, and online records.

I also keep the new acquisition database and am currently trying to create a backlog list and create a strategy to deal with all of our un-cataloged material/items.

I also answer some incoming inquiries from outside scholars as well as talk to our on-site readers about our collections and their research.

What are the most valuable skills I use in my job?

I think the skills that are the most valuable are the ones that I learned in my cataloging, archives, records management and government documents classes. I use my cataloging skills and archive skills almost every day here. One of the things that I learned at SJSU that I use a lot is the ability to find a variety of resources that may be helpful to my work, and all of the theory and basic archival knowledge I learned help me take a bigger view of my work and see how it fits into my institution and how my institution fits amongst all archival institutions.

Contact Permission

It is OK to contact this alumni.

Send email to: Brooke M. Black