Curator Rare Books

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Join Auckland Libraries and help shape our unique and valuable documentary heritage collections. As our Curator Rare Books and Maps you’ll be part of a Research and Heritage team committed to developing inclusive, accessible collections that reflect the voices of Tāmaki Makaurau.

This is a permanent full-time role of 40 hours per week, based at the Auckland Central City Library.

Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters
Curatorial Services is one of six teams within Research and Heritage at Auckland Council Libraries who work closely together to acquire, describe, care for, and provide customer access to our rich and varied documentary heritage collections.

Curator Rare Books and Maps is a senior role within the team and holds collection responsibility for some of the longest held and most well-loved items in the collection, including Shakespeare’s First Folio and medieval manuscripts.

Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities
• Develop and maintain collecting focus for the international rare book and heritage map collections.
• Liaise with donors, researchers, and vendors to assess and make recommendations for new acquisitions.
• Research and lead exhibitions that inspire visitors and encourage use of the collections.
• Respond to research enquiries and maintain relationships with researchers and the wider GLAM sector.
• Undertake research into the Library’s collections and seek opportunities to promote them.

To view full position description: click here

He kōrero mōu: About you
You’ll be a collaborative and culturally aware professional with:

• Curatorial, research library, special collections, museum or archive experience
• Knowledge and expertise in book history and tools for bibliographical research
• 5+ years’ direct experience working with rare book collections
• Strong research, writing, and public engagement skills
• A relevant tertiary qualification (Level 5+)
• Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, te ao Māori, and tīkanga Māori.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer 

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 
Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Tono Mai: Apply Now!
Application close date: Tuesday 28th April 2026 at 11.59pm

Salary: We are expecting to appoint the successful candidate at a salary of $100-$114k, depending on skills and experience.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.