Latin American & Caribbean Collection Specialist (time-limited)
University of Florida
Job Description
POSITION TITLE: Latin American & Caribbean Collection Specialist (time-limited)
CLASSIFICATION: Library Associate 2
REPORTS TO: Interim Associate Chair & Curator of the Panama Canal Museum
SALARY: $51,884 minimum salary; The Smathers Libraries offer a salary commensurate with experience and credentials.
The University of Florida offers a competitive benefits package including health, retirement, paid time off, discount programs, professional development and worklife support. Learn more.
JOB NUMBER: 538349 (Apply online)
DEADLINE DATE: January 29, 2026 - applications will be reviewed as received
PLEASE NOTE: This is a time-limited position with funding through Dec. 31, 2027.
JOB SUMMARY
The Latin American & Caribbean Collection Specialist engages in collection management, public service, outreach, and other activities for the Latin American & Caribbean Collection (LACC), which is one of the preeminent collections of the University of Florida and one of the finest such collections in the world. The LACC Specialist is primarily responsible for working with LACC librarians to develop and manage a circulating collection of materials in all formats, including approximately 500,000 book volumes, 1,100 serial, 50,000 microforms, and a growing body of digital resources. The Specialist supports acquisitions activities, including working with donors, selecting gift materials, and preparing materials for cataloging. In consultation with the LACC Special Collections Librarian, LACC Digital Initiatives Librarian, and Panama Canal Museum Collection Curator, the LACC Specialist develops workflows and processes for special curatorial projects. The Specialist completes bibliographic activities, stacks management, and other collection service activities to maintain and ensure access to materials. The Specialist participates in outreach activities, event planning, and providing public services, including reference assistance (on-site and online), tours, and orientation sessions. The Specialist engages with and provides services to an international community of users and with the faculty and students at the Center for Latin American Studies (http://www.latam.ufl.edu/) and other UF units to support research and teaching needs. The Specialist collaborates closely with faculty and staff in LACC and the Department of Special & Area Studies Institution Collections and with others in the Libraries to manage LACC holdings and services. The LACC Specialist may supervise student employees and also will serve on various committees and teams.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Collection Management
• Completes acquisitions activities including working with donors, reviewing and selecting gift materials, preparing materials for cataloging, including foreign-language materials (e.g., Spanish, Portuguese, etc.).
• In consultation with LACC librarians and public services personnel, manages collection storage in the LACC stacks and other locations.
• Consults with the Resource Description Services unit to ensure bibliographic data integrity in the ILS, and edits catalog records to create or correct location and holdings information.
• Completes check-in and claims processes for serials, manages serial title changes, and resolves problems and missing item reports.
• Liaises with Preservation & Conservation to ensure preservation treatments for materials.
• Maintains and reports statistical data about collections, and participates in the assessment of holdings and services.
Public Service, Outreach, and Public Programming
• Engages with an international community of users and with the faculty and students at the Center for Latin American Studies.
• Provides reference service via Ask-A-Librarian (chat service).
• Assists patrons in the reading room and at the LACC reference desk.
• Participates in outreach activities, event planning, tours, exhibits, bibliographic instruction, and orientation sessions.
• Creates and maintains relevant research tools such as subject guides.
Curatorial Projects
• Participates in planning and implementing special curatorial projects by developing workflows, processes, and procedures. Examples of projects include identifying materials for mass digitization projects (e.g., Google Books, Celebrating Cuba!, etc.), recommending withdrawals, analyzing circulation and usage in subject areas, etc.
Other Duties as Assigned
• Participates in meetings and trainings to remain appraised of procedures and policies, to gain knowledge and skills, and to share information with others.
• May hire, train, and/or supervise regular staff and/or OPS and student staff.
• Participates in special projects and performs other duties as assigned.
• Serves on departmental and library committees or working groups.
QUALIFICATIONS
We value a range of experiences and perspectives. Applicants are encouraged to communicate in their application materials and subsequent interview conversations how their work and other experiences satisfy the following qualifications.
Required:
High School diploma or equivalent and seven years of library, or relevant experience; or an Associate’s degree and five years of relevant experience; or a Bachelor’s degree and three years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree and one year of relevant experience; or any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education.
Preferred:
• Experience using Alma, Aleph, or a similar ILS for circulation, public catalog searching, checking in materials, and processing activities
• Knowledge of the history and culture of Latin America and the Caribbean
• Professional fluency in written and spoken Spanish and English
• Bibliographical competency in multiple languages (e.g., Spanish, Portuguese, Haitian Creole, etc.)
• Experience with collection storage activities such as collection shifting, shelf reads, and physical reorganization projects
• Evidence of excellent interpersonal skills including oral and written communication
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively to accomplish goals
• Flexibility, and ability to adapt and work in a rapidly changing academic environment
• Basic computer skills and experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Ability to regularly and safely handle library materials, including: carrying boxes and materials weighing up to 40 pounds; bending and lifting; transporting on carts or dollies frequently weighing over 100 pounds; climbing on stools and ladders to shelve or retrieve materials; and loading and unloading to/from vans
• Commitment to contributing to a respectful and caring community for all
DEPARTMENT OF SPECIAL AND AREA STUDIES COLLECTIONS
The Dept. of Special and Area Studies Collections combines the Libraries’ traditional special collections with its premier area and cultural studies collections. Special Collections holds the primary source research collections of the University of Florida, which include the Harold and Mary Jean Hanson Rare Book Collection, the P. K. Yonge Library of Florida History, the Popular Culture Collection, the Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature, the University of Florida Archives, and manuscript collections supporting the different special and area studies collections. Area Studies is comprised of the Latin American Collection, the African Studies Collection, the Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica and the Asian Studies Collection. Together, the collections contain over 750,000 volumes, more than 50,000 rolls of microfilm, over 8000 linear feet of manuscript and archival material, and a growing presence of unique digital holdings. The collections provide direct support to academic programs at the University of Florida while also supporting research in a variety of academic fields and disciplines for an international community of scholars.
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA LIBRARIES
The libraries at the University of Florida form the largest academic information resource system in the state of Florida with seven libraries and two off-campus facilities. The George A. Smathers Libraries are comprised of six campus libraries and off-site facilities. The library staff consists of more than 300 FTE librarians, technical/clerical staff and student assistants. The Smathers Libraries’ Mission, Vision and Strategic Directions can be viewed here. In addition to this system, the Lawton Chiles Legal Information Center is part of the Levin College of Law. The Libraries hold over 6.27 million print volumes, 1.5 million e-books, over 197,000 full-text journals, over 1000 electronic databases, 1.3 million documents, and 1.4 million maps and images. Distinctive holdings include the Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica, Latin American and Caribbean Collection, Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature and the P.K. Yonge Library of Florida History. The Libraries maintain partnerships and participate in a variety of collaborative, international projects while engaging with the UF community. We are a member of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and other regional library consortia.
THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
The University of Florida ranks among the top public universities in the nation according to the U.S. News and World Report. The University of Florida (UF) is the state of Florida’s pre-eminent university, as well as the state's oldest and most comprehensive university. UF is among the nation's most academically comprehensive public universities and is one of only 17 public, land-grant universities that belong to the Institution Association of American Universities. UF has 16 academic colleges offering a variety of established programs for students seeking to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees. In addition to attracting over $1.26 billion in research expenditures last year, UF Faculty foster a uniquely collaborative environment that transforms potential into results. UF is one of the largest universities in the nation, with more than 60,000 students. Learn more about the University of Florida and what makes us great.
BENEFITS
University benefits for this position include retirement plan options, insurance benefits, paid family leave (parental and medical), tuition fee waiver program, and employee assistance program, as well as paid time off and holidays. Gainesville, Florida, has no state or local income tax.
Additionally, the Smathers libraries are committed to supporting staff and faculty professional development. Supports include a formal mentoring program, a robust training program, release time for research and professional service, a comprehensive grants program, and funding for professional development travel.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
University of Florida is a member of the State University System of Florida and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit.
GAINESVILLE COMMUNITY
Gainesville and the surrounding community are home to approximately 280,000 people and both the University of Florida and Santa Fe College. Beautiful natural areas, including many spring-fed lakes and rivers, are a boon for outdoor adventurers. Museums, music festivals, and major performing arts institutions round out the community's rich cultural heritage. The city is just over an hour from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Gainesville is an award winning and innovative city, friendly to both professionals and families. The Guide to Greater Gainesville combines award winning photography and compelling articles that capture all the reasons for calling Gainesville your next home. The area has numerous opportunities for participating in community athletics and is a haven for sports fans. Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, Tallahassee, and St. Augustine are all within a two-hour drive.
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 11:55 pm (EST) on the application close date via the Jobs at UF online application system at Job Number 538349. Applications will be reviewed as received. 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.
If an accommodation due to a hearing or speech disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 University of Florida Human Resources or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD)
CLASSIFICATION: Library Associate 2
REPORTS TO: Interim Associate Chair & Curator of the Panama Canal Museum
SALARY: $51,884 minimum salary; The Smathers Libraries offer a salary commensurate with experience and credentials.
The University of Florida offers a competitive benefits package including health, retirement, paid time off, discount programs, professional development and worklife support. Learn more.
JOB NUMBER: 538349 (Apply online)
DEADLINE DATE: January 29, 2026 - applications will be reviewed as received
PLEASE NOTE: This is a time-limited position with funding through Dec. 31, 2027.
JOB SUMMARY
The Latin American & Caribbean Collection Specialist engages in collection management, public service, outreach, and other activities for the Latin American & Caribbean Collection (LACC), which is one of the preeminent collections of the University of Florida and one of the finest such collections in the world. The LACC Specialist is primarily responsible for working with LACC librarians to develop and manage a circulating collection of materials in all formats, including approximately 500,000 book volumes, 1,100 serial, 50,000 microforms, and a growing body of digital resources. The Specialist supports acquisitions activities, including working with donors, selecting gift materials, and preparing materials for cataloging. In consultation with the LACC Special Collections Librarian, LACC Digital Initiatives Librarian, and Panama Canal Museum Collection Curator, the LACC Specialist develops workflows and processes for special curatorial projects. The Specialist completes bibliographic activities, stacks management, and other collection service activities to maintain and ensure access to materials. The Specialist participates in outreach activities, event planning, and providing public services, including reference assistance (on-site and online), tours, and orientation sessions. The Specialist engages with and provides services to an international community of users and with the faculty and students at the Center for Latin American Studies (http://www.latam.ufl.edu/) and other UF units to support research and teaching needs. The Specialist collaborates closely with faculty and staff in LACC and the Department of Special & Area Studies Institution Collections and with others in the Libraries to manage LACC holdings and services. The LACC Specialist may supervise student employees and also will serve on various committees and teams.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Collection Management
• Completes acquisitions activities including working with donors, reviewing and selecting gift materials, preparing materials for cataloging, including foreign-language materials (e.g., Spanish, Portuguese, etc.).
• In consultation with LACC librarians and public services personnel, manages collection storage in the LACC stacks and other locations.
• Consults with the Resource Description Services unit to ensure bibliographic data integrity in the ILS, and edits catalog records to create or correct location and holdings information.
• Completes check-in and claims processes for serials, manages serial title changes, and resolves problems and missing item reports.
• Liaises with Preservation & Conservation to ensure preservation treatments for materials.
• Maintains and reports statistical data about collections, and participates in the assessment of holdings and services.
Public Service, Outreach, and Public Programming
• Engages with an international community of users and with the faculty and students at the Center for Latin American Studies.
• Provides reference service via Ask-A-Librarian (chat service).
• Assists patrons in the reading room and at the LACC reference desk.
• Participates in outreach activities, event planning, tours, exhibits, bibliographic instruction, and orientation sessions.
• Creates and maintains relevant research tools such as subject guides.
Curatorial Projects
• Participates in planning and implementing special curatorial projects by developing workflows, processes, and procedures. Examples of projects include identifying materials for mass digitization projects (e.g., Google Books, Celebrating Cuba!, etc.), recommending withdrawals, analyzing circulation and usage in subject areas, etc.
Other Duties as Assigned
• Participates in meetings and trainings to remain appraised of procedures and policies, to gain knowledge and skills, and to share information with others.
• May hire, train, and/or supervise regular staff and/or OPS and student staff.
• Participates in special projects and performs other duties as assigned.
• Serves on departmental and library committees or working groups.
QUALIFICATIONS
We value a range of experiences and perspectives. Applicants are encouraged to communicate in their application materials and subsequent interview conversations how their work and other experiences satisfy the following qualifications.
Required:
High School diploma or equivalent and seven years of library, or relevant experience; or an Associate’s degree and five years of relevant experience; or a Bachelor’s degree and three years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree and one year of relevant experience; or any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education.
Preferred:
• Experience using Alma, Aleph, or a similar ILS for circulation, public catalog searching, checking in materials, and processing activities
• Knowledge of the history and culture of Latin America and the Caribbean
• Professional fluency in written and spoken Spanish and English
• Bibliographical competency in multiple languages (e.g., Spanish, Portuguese, Haitian Creole, etc.)
• Experience with collection storage activities such as collection shifting, shelf reads, and physical reorganization projects
• Evidence of excellent interpersonal skills including oral and written communication
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively to accomplish goals
• Flexibility, and ability to adapt and work in a rapidly changing academic environment
• Basic computer skills and experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Ability to regularly and safely handle library materials, including: carrying boxes and materials weighing up to 40 pounds; bending and lifting; transporting on carts or dollies frequently weighing over 100 pounds; climbing on stools and ladders to shelve or retrieve materials; and loading and unloading to/from vans
• Commitment to contributing to a respectful and caring community for all
DEPARTMENT OF SPECIAL AND AREA STUDIES COLLECTIONS
The Dept. of Special and Area Studies Collections combines the Libraries’ traditional special collections with its premier area and cultural studies collections. Special Collections holds the primary source research collections of the University of Florida, which include the Harold and Mary Jean Hanson Rare Book Collection, the P. K. Yonge Library of Florida History, the Popular Culture Collection, the Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature, the University of Florida Archives, and manuscript collections supporting the different special and area studies collections. Area Studies is comprised of the Latin American Collection, the African Studies Collection, the Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica and the Asian Studies Collection. Together, the collections contain over 750,000 volumes, more than 50,000 rolls of microfilm, over 8000 linear feet of manuscript and archival material, and a growing presence of unique digital holdings. The collections provide direct support to academic programs at the University of Florida while also supporting research in a variety of academic fields and disciplines for an international community of scholars.
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA LIBRARIES
The libraries at the University of Florida form the largest academic information resource system in the state of Florida with seven libraries and two off-campus facilities. The George A. Smathers Libraries are comprised of six campus libraries and off-site facilities. The library staff consists of more than 300 FTE librarians, technical/clerical staff and student assistants. The Smathers Libraries’ Mission, Vision and Strategic Directions can be viewed here. In addition to this system, the Lawton Chiles Legal Information Center is part of the Levin College of Law. The Libraries hold over 6.27 million print volumes, 1.5 million e-books, over 197,000 full-text journals, over 1000 electronic databases, 1.3 million documents, and 1.4 million maps and images. Distinctive holdings include the Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica, Latin American and Caribbean Collection, Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature and the P.K. Yonge Library of Florida History. The Libraries maintain partnerships and participate in a variety of collaborative, international projects while engaging with the UF community. We are a member of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and other regional library consortia.
THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
The University of Florida ranks among the top public universities in the nation according to the U.S. News and World Report. The University of Florida (UF) is the state of Florida’s pre-eminent university, as well as the state's oldest and most comprehensive university. UF is among the nation's most academically comprehensive public universities and is one of only 17 public, land-grant universities that belong to the Institution Association of American Universities. UF has 16 academic colleges offering a variety of established programs for students seeking to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees. In addition to attracting over $1.26 billion in research expenditures last year, UF Faculty foster a uniquely collaborative environment that transforms potential into results. UF is one of the largest universities in the nation, with more than 60,000 students. Learn more about the University of Florida and what makes us great.
BENEFITS
University benefits for this position include retirement plan options, insurance benefits, paid family leave (parental and medical), tuition fee waiver program, and employee assistance program, as well as paid time off and holidays. Gainesville, Florida, has no state or local income tax.
Additionally, the Smathers libraries are committed to supporting staff and faculty professional development. Supports include a formal mentoring program, a robust training program, release time for research and professional service, a comprehensive grants program, and funding for professional development travel.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
University of Florida is a member of the State University System of Florida and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit.
GAINESVILLE COMMUNITY
Gainesville and the surrounding community are home to approximately 280,000 people and both the University of Florida and Santa Fe College. Beautiful natural areas, including many spring-fed lakes and rivers, are a boon for outdoor adventurers. Museums, music festivals, and major performing arts institutions round out the community's rich cultural heritage. The city is just over an hour from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Gainesville is an award winning and innovative city, friendly to both professionals and families. The Guide to Greater Gainesville combines award winning photography and compelling articles that capture all the reasons for calling Gainesville your next home. The area has numerous opportunities for participating in community athletics and is a haven for sports fans. Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, Tallahassee, and St. Augustine are all within a two-hour drive.
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 11:55 pm (EST) on the application close date via the Jobs at UF online application system at Job Number 538349. Applications will be reviewed as received. 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.
If an accommodation due to a hearing or speech disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 University of Florida Human Resources or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD)
