Trainee Cataloguer- Book Department

Trainee Cataloguer – Books Department

Full time position

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly organised Trainee Cataloguer to join our Books Department. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to begin or develop a career in the rare books and auction industry, gaining practical experience across all aspects of the auction process.

Working closely with our team of specialists, you will receive hands-on experience in researching, cataloguing and presenting rare books, manuscripts and works on paper for auction, while supporting the department with both pre- and post-sale activities.

Key Responsibilities

You will have a varied role covering all stages of the auction process, including:

• Assisting with the cataloguing of rare books, manuscripts and works on paper for inclusion in auctions, developing the skills required to produce accurate and informative catalogue descriptions.
• Conducting bibliographic, provenance and pricing research using online databases, reference works, auction records and internal resources.
• Assisting with the preparation of accurate condition reports, learning how to identify and describe condition issues appropriately.
• Supporting the photography and digital presentation of lots, ensuring items are accurately and attractively represented online and in catalogues.
• Undertaking vendor management administration, including maintaining accurate vendor and consignment information, assisting with property and sale documentation, and supporting communication with vendors throughout the consignment and auction process.
• Maintaining accurate lot, client and inventory records across the department's internal databases and systems.
• Liaising with clients by telephone, email and in person in relation to appraisals, consignments, collections and general enquiries, providing a professional and helpful level of service.
• Assisting with the receipt, organisation and movement of property, ensuring items are correctly recorded and cared for throughout the auction process.
• Providing hands-on support in the preparation of auction views and exhibitions, including displaying and organising lots and preparing the saleroom.
• Supporting the department with live and online auction administration and post-sale activities.
• Contributing to marketing and promotional activity, including identifying catalogue highlights and assisting with website content, social media and other departmental communications.
• Developing knowledge of the rare book and auction markets through exposure to a wide variety of material and working alongside experienced specialists.
• Undertaking general departmental administration and other administrative duties as required to support the efficient day-to-day running of the Books Department.
• Undertaking any other duties and activities as may reasonably be required to support the Books Department and wider business.

About You

The role would suit someone with a strong interest in books, manuscripts, history, literature, art or the wider auction market.

You will ideally have:

• A genuine enthusiasm for rare books, manuscripts and works on paper.
• Strong research skills and intellectual curiosity.
• Excellent written English with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Confidence using computers, online research tools and databases.
• A professional and personable approach when dealing with clients.
• A willingness to learn and take on responsibility as your knowledge and experience develop.
• The ability to work collaboratively as part of a busy department while also working independently when required.
• A practical, flexible approach and willingness to assist with the physical aspects of preparing and running auctions.

Previous auction-house or rare-book experience would be advantageous but is not essential, as training and guidance will be provided.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your interest in the role, your relevant skills and experience, and why you would like to develop a career within the rare books and auction industry.

Please email Vicki Wonfor Sign in to view email

PLEASE NOTE WE WILL NOT BE REVIEWING APPLICATIONS ON LINKEDIN, ONLY APPLICATIONS VIA EMAIL WILL BE CONSIDERED.

WE ARE UNABLE TO PROVIDE VISA SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE.