The La Trobe Journal features new work on a wide range of subjects by writers and others who have drawn on and been inspired by the Library’s collections for source material. The purpose of the journal is to raise awareness of the creative and research possibilities of the Library’s rich and diverse collections. The journal is illustrated with images from the Library’s collections.
The La Trobe Journal is published by State Library Victoria twice yearly in print and online with support from State Library Victoria fundraising. Friends of the Library receive the journal as a benefit of their membership and the journal is available in selected bookshops. The online version can be found here: slv.vic.gov.au/about-us/our-publications/la-trobe-journal.
In collaboration with the Library, the General Editor is responsible for selecting and commissioning the articles and collaborating with the contributors to finalise them for submission to the Library for production. Occasional issues are guest-edited. The role of General Editor of the journal is an honorary one, and the General Editor will have access to a desk in a shared office at the Library. The new General Editor will commence mid-2018 to oversee the guest-edited March 2019 issue and curate the September 2019 and following issues.
Position details
The General Editor can be based either offsite or at the Library (328 Swanston Street, Melbourne), where they have access to a desk in a shared office.
Further information:Margot Jones, Publishing Project Manager
T: (03) 8664 7519 E:
About the Library
State Library Victoria is one of Victoria’s pre-eminent cultural institutions and a leading library internationally. Through our unique collections and wide-ranging services, we are central to the cultural life and economy of Victoria.
We are the major reference and research library in Victoria and aim to provide Victorians and all users with ready access to a comprehensive collection of Victorian documentary material and to worldwide information resources to enrich their cultural, educational, social and economic lives.
Organisational values
InnovationWe recognise and embrace new technologies, ideas and opportunities to improve, grow and develop as individuals and as industry leaders in a challenging environment.
CollaborationWe work together and with partners, sharing knowledge and resources to advance universal access to information.
EngagementWe work to understand, connect and meet the needs and expectations of our communities in the most appropriate ways.
ExcellenceWe provide an outstanding service at all times in a professional and ethical manner.
RespectWe strive to create an open and caring community by valuing and supporting individuals, and acknowledging the strength of diversity.
Volunteers at State Library Victoria make a significant contribution to the Library and its community. We recognise and value the unique skills, experiences, insights and energy that volunteers bring to the Library. Our vibrant and growing volunteer community includes participants from all age groups, nationalities and walks of life.
What you’ll do
The General Editor of the La Trobe Journal is a volunteer role under the supervision of the Library’s Publishing Project Manager, who manages production of each issue, and the guidance of an Editorial Advisory Group. The General Editor’s activities include:
- Selecting the articles and illustrations for each issue from both unsolicited and commissioned submissions, arranging peer review of articles where necessary, and writing a short editorial for each issue
- Liaising with the contributors or guest editors until the articles meet the required standard and the agreed extent for production, and collating images and any third party copyright permissions as supplied by contributors where necessary
- Handing over the finalised articles, images, endmatter and the editorial to the Publishing Project Manager for production, and checking pageproofs and liaising with the contributors on the pageproofs as necessary
- Collaborating with the Publishing Project Manager and the Editorial Advisory Group in planning of content and special issue themes, and identifying possibilities for developing digital publication of journal content
What we’re looking for
- Experience researching, writing, commissioning and editing articles, preferably including those on historical subjects, and an eye for identifying good writing and quality research
- In-depth experience with the collections of State Library Victoria or another similar collecting institution
- A vision for promoting the depth and diversity of the Library’s collections and bringing new collection-based writing in various genres and on a wide range of topics to new audiences
- A network of relevant research and writing contacts
- Proficiency in communicating by email and compiling manuscripts in Word using track changes
- Availability to volunteer for the time required to edit two issues per year (approximately 24 days per issue), ideally for a three-year period from mid-2018, reviewed annually
- Experience in publishing for a broad readership would be highly regarded
- Collaboration and enthusiasm in performing the role alongside Library staff
State Library Victoria is a child safe organisation. All Library staff, contractors and volunteers, regardless of their role, are required to have a valid Working with Children Check before commencing their role. Working with Children Checks are free for volunteers.
What we’ll provide
- A security pass and access to a desk in a shared office at the Library
- Support from Library collection staff and the Publishing Project Manager
- Access to ‘the Billabong’, our spacious staff and volunteer tearoom, with lockers and free tea and coffee
- Discounts at Mr Tulk cafe and the Readings book shop at the Library
- Discount on Friends of the Library membership
- The opportunity to become part of a strong community of volunteers and staff at one of Australia’s leading cultural institutions
Physical requirements
Predominant physical requirements of this role:
- Reading
- General computer use.
How to apply
Please apply for this role using the Volunteer Application Form on the ‘Volunteer with us’ page on State Library Victoria’s website: https://www.slv.vic.gov.au/about-us/work-with-us/volunteer-with-us
If you are unable to apply online or have difficulties accessing the information or lodging your application, please contact or 03 8664 7401. Your inquiry will be handled by a member of the Volunteers team.
Page | 1
Version: 28 March 2018 MJ