Library Volunteer – General Synod Archives

Library Volunteer

Term: 7 hours per week minimum (full or half days)

About the Role

This in-office position in downtown Toronto (near Yonge Bloor Subway) is focused on helping us retire our card catalogue by fall of 2026 by entering the remaining cards into our database (InMagic). The project is currently 25% complete and we are seeking volunteers who would be able to contribute at least 7 hours a week (full or half days) in our Archive for a period of at least 4 months.

Please send applications to [email protected]

Volunteers will work with the General Synod Archivist to develop skills in:

• InMagic library database system
• Reviewing original materials to clarify information being entered
• Updating subject headings and naming authorities.

Applicants should demonstrate accurate and fast keyboarding.

Library students and retired librarians who are looking to maintain cataloguing skills will make a difference in this role.

Background

The General Synod Archives collects published material by or about the Anglican Church of Canada, related people, topics, and organizations.

Since 1957, the library materials were catalogued on traditional library catalogue cards.  In 1989, the Archives started using a database for cataloguing the library materials.  In 1997, the pre-1900 imprints were entered into the database.  However, there is a body of catalogue cards from the in-between years that are not yet entered into the database.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the General Synod Archivist the Library volunteer will:

• Enter the cataloguing information into the InMagic library database
• Check the original materials to clarify information
• Check for updated subject headings and name authorities

Required Skills

• Meticulous attention to detail
• Strong computer skills
• Experience with database

About the General Synod Archives

The General Synod is the governing body and the national office of the Anglican Church of Canada, a religious organization established in 1893.  The General Synod Archives was established in 1927 to collect, preserve and make accessible the records of the General Synod and its related officers, committees, councils, and task forces. The General Synod Archives also collects published material by or about the Anglican Church of Canada, related people and organizations.

Candidates who require accommodations are asked to mention this in their application.

Please send applications to [email protected]