Cataloguing & Acquisitions Librarian (0.8FTE)

28 hours per week | London 

The Royal College of Art is seeking a skilled and motivated Cataloguing & Acquisitions Librarian to join our small, collaborative Library team, part of the wider Education and Student Success directorate.

Based at our Kensington campus, the Library provides a pro-active, user-focused service for students and staff across all three RCA campuses. Our collections include books, journals, magazines, zines, and a wide range of digital resources, alongside distinctive Special Collections.

About the Role

As Cataloguing & Acquisitions Librarian, you will:

• Catalogue and classify books, digital resources, and other materials in line with international standards (RDA, AACR2, MARC 21, LCSH, LCNAF, DDC).
• Enhance resource discoverability through high-quality metadata, reflective and inclusive cataloguing practices, and project work.
• Facilitate acquisitions of both print and digital materials, liaising with suppliers, monitoring budgets, and collating usage data.
• Contribute to the Library’s enquiry service, support colleagues across strands, and supervise Library Assistants when required.
• Stay informed about emerging trends in metadata and library systems, sharing expertise and guidance within the team.

The post is primarily campus-based, working 28 hours per week (0.8FTE) and will include working 1 evening and 1 Saturday on a rota basis.

About You

You will hold a professional qualification in library or information science and bring proven experience in cataloguing with recognised metadata standards. You’ll also have knowledge of acquisition processes, excellent organisational skills, and the ability to balance independent work with collaborative teamwork.

Key strengths we’re looking for include:

• A meticulous eye for detail in cataloguing and metadata.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience of monitoring budgets and liaising with suppliers.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in library practice.

Desirable attributes include experience with art and design resources, enthusiasm for contemporary culture, and supervisory experience.

Why Join Us?

At the RCA, you’ll be part of a supportive, dynamic Library team of 14 staff members, working across Reader Services, Collections & Systems, and Special Collections. We value collaboration, innovation, and reflective practice as we serve the world’s leading postgraduate art and design university.

Closing for applications 11.59pm on Sunday 28 September 2025

Interviews are likely to take place 14/15 October 2025

Please note this position is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. Therefore, the successful candidate must already have the legal right to work in the UK for the duration of their employment and be able to provide proof in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 and Home Office guidance.  

RCA Benefits available here: https://www.rca.ac.uk/more/work-at-the-rca/staff-benefits/

The Royal College of Art (RCA)  aims to foster an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all its staff and students and stakeholders are respected. 

We recognise the broad range of experiences that a diverse staff and student body brings and how this  strengthens our research and enhances our teaching. In order for RCA to remain a world-leading institution we are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles throughout all of our processes, from application through to appointment.

Please tell us if you need any assistance in applying or if you need the information in a different format.

In your message to resourcing@rca.ac.uk include:

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