HOW would you like to rummage through and detail Ian Rankin's archives for £27,777?

A dream job has opened up for fans of the Cardenden author after he donated around 50 boxes of material to the National Library of Scotland.

The crime writer is offering one lucky individual the chance to curate his personal archive of works which dates between 1972–2018.

Often cited as the 'godfather of tartan noir', Rankin's writing has resonated with millions throughout the world — with his novels translated into 36 languages.

The archive includes typescripts of manuscripts with handwritten annotations and notes by the author.

Rankin said: "I remember that in my first week as a post-graduate student we were given a tour of the National Library of Scotland, including access to the basement levels. Those vaulted underground corridors would reappear in the climactic scenes of my first (Inspector) Rebus novel. The library has seemed like a friend ever since, so it seems fitting — as well as a thrill and an honour — that my archive should find a permanent home there."

Correspondence with literary figures such as J.K Rowling, Iain Banks, Val McDermid, Jilly Cooper and Ruth Rendell also forms part of the collection.

Job applications are now being taken for the fixed-term 13 month position which will see the successful candidate arrange and fully describe the archive making it as accessible as possible.

They will work with colleagues from across the library to help promote the archive through a programme of events for the public.

The salary will be partly funded by Rankin himself,

Dr John Scally, national librarian, said: "This is a comprehensive, fascinating, in-depth archive, spanning several decades. It is rich in detail — all of which will become fully apparent as the curator works through the archive.

"We must thank Ian for making a substantial donation towards the creation of this post. This means we will soon be able to open up the archive to all."

Hopefuls have until June 30 to apply for the job being advertised online by the National Library of Scotland.