Lamar University - Beaumont is hiring: Librarian, Head of Collections & Discover

Librarian, Head of Collections & Discovery

Position Title: Librarian, Head of Collections & Discovery

FTE: 1.00

FLSA: Salary commensurate

Job Summary/Basic Function:

Exciting Opportunity at the Mary & John Gray Library!
The Mary & John Gray Library is currently undergoing a $90 million dollar renovation aimed at modernizing our facilities, improving accessibility, and expanding services. This transformation will enhance research and study opportunities for the Lamar University community.

About This Role:
The Librarian, Head of Collections and Discovery, reporting to the Dean of the Library, is responsible for managing and developing the unit which acquires access to information resources in support of student learning and faculty research. Collections and Discovery encompass traditional physical and electronic acquisitions and cataloging/metadata functions, as well as interlibrary loan and document delivery. The department is also responsible for maintaining data in the library’s Integrated Library System (ILS). The position involves implementing best practices in resource management while being encouraged to innovate and explore new approaches. You will have the opportunity to apply effective techniques and technologies to enhance our library services and drive forward our vision. This is a tenure track, 12-month faculty appointment.

What You’ll Do – Position Responsibilities:

1. Collections Strategy and Development:
   • Develop and implement strategies for the management and development of collections that support student learning and faculty research.
   • Oversee the acquisition of information resources, ensuring alignment with best practices and innovative approaches in resource management.
   • Manage the library resources budget in coordination with the Library Dean.
   • Supervise the creation and establishment of policies governing acquisitions, cataloging, and other relevant areas to align with best practices in resource management.
   • Ensure the library management system (LMS) effectively supports catalog and acquisitions functions.
2. Departmental Management and Oversight:
   • Supervise departmental librarians and staff, ensuring effective operation and workflow in acquisitions, cataloging, interlibrary loan, and document delivery.
   • Develop and monitor key performance indicators to assess the effectiveness of the unit’s operations.
   • Participate actively in the library’s administrative leadership team.
3. Reporting and Data Contribution:
   • Prepare periodic reports and contribute data for university accreditation and other institutional needs related to collections and resource access.
   • Collaborate with the Associate Dean to develop and analyze data to refine and enhance usage and discoverability of library resources.
   • Engage in scholarship and research appropriate for a tenured/tenure-track faculty librarian, including but not limited to scholarly publications, conference presentations, and professional service to the academic community, all in line with updated tenure and promotion guidelines.
   • Maintain awareness of the latest trends in librarianship and information science through ongoing professional development and participation in relevant professional organizations.
4. Service:
   • Serve on university and library committees as appointed by the Dean or other officials.
   • Engage in professional service, contributing to the library and academic community, including collaboration with other departments and stakeholders.
   • Perform other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements:
Able to lift 25 pounds and be able to perform a variety of physical tasks including lifting, bending, stooping, squatting, stair climbing, and walking between buildings.

Job Conditions:
This position has the option of some flex work, significant on-site work as well. Extensive computer use.

Minimum Qualifications (Education & Experience):

• Master’s degree in library or information science from an American Library Association accredited institution.
• At least 1 year of experience working in a supervisory role (acquisitions, cataloging, etc.) in an academic library technical services unit. Will consider relatable experience.
• Some supervisory experience of student employees, staff, or faculty. Will consider relatable experience.

Preferred Qualifications (Education & Experience):

• Record of scholarship and service appropriate to a faculty role or the ability to create and engage in research and service.
• 2+ years of supervisory experience.

Documents Needed to Apply:

Required Documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Unofficial Transcripts

Optional Documents:

• Miscellaneous

Lamar University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.