Trainee Cataloguer – Books Department

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.