29/09/2026
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.
About You
The role would suit someone with a strong interest in books, manuscripts, history, literature, art or the wider auction market.
You will ideally have:
▪️ A genuine enthusiasm for rare books, manuscripts and works on paper.
▪️ Strong research skills and intellectual curiosity.
▪️ Excellent written English with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
▪️ Good organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
▪️Confidence using computers, online research tools and databases.
▪️ A professional and personable approach when dealing with clients.
▪️ A willingness to learn and take on responsibility as your knowledge and experience develop.
▪️ The ability to work collaboratively as part of a busy department while also working independently when required.
▪️ A practical, flexible approach and willingness to assist with the physical aspects of preparing and running auctions.
Previous auction-house or rare-book experience would be advantageous but is not essential, as training and guidance will be provided.
How to Apply
▪️To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your interest in the role, your relevant skills and experience, and why you would like to develop a career within the rare books and auction industry.
Please email Vicki Wonfor at [email protected]
