Sample interview questions: Can you provide an example of a time when you had to negotiate the acquisition or donation of significant special collections materials?
Sample answer:
Sure, here is an example of a time when I had to negotiate the acquisition or donation of significant special collections materials:
Negotiating the Acquisition of the “Early Californian Cuisine” Cookbook Collection:
- Background:
- A renowned culinary historian and cookbook collector, Ms. Eleanor Rossi, was downsizing her extensive collection of rare and out-of-print cookbooks focusing on early Californian cuisine.
- The collection included over 500 volumes dating from the 1850s to the early 1900s, providing a comprehensive insight into the evolution of California’s culinary heritage.
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Ms. Rossi had received multiple offers from private collectors and institutions, and her asking price was significantly higher than our library’s budget.
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Negotiation Process:
- I conducted thorough research on the market value of similar cookbook collections and consulted with culinary experts and rare book dealers to establish a fair valuation.
- I initiated a dialogue with Ms. Rossi, expressing our library’s deep appreciation for the collection and our commitment to preserving and making it accessible to researchers and the public.
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Through careful negotiation and demonstrating our institution’s mission and resources, we were able to secure the collection for a price that was acceptable to both parties.
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Benefits to the Library and Community:
- The acquisition of the “Early Californian Cuisine” cookbook collection significantly enhanced our library’s special collections, making it a premier destination for culinary research.
- The collection has attracted scholars, food historians, and members of the general public interested in California’s culinary history and culture.
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The collection has been featured in local and regional media, raising the profile of our library and its commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
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Lessons Learned:
- Patience and persistence are key in negotiations. Building rapport and trust with the donor or seller is essential to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.
- Thorough research and understanding of the market value of the materia… Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/18_0_6/Special%20Collections%20Librarian