Systems Librarian, University of Maryland Libraries, College Park MD
Posted June 30, 2014
Position Summary/Purpose of Position:
The Systems Librarian is responsible for supporting digital applications, content, and digital preservation activities at the University of Maryland Libraries.
Reporting to the Manager, Digital Programs and Initiatives, the Systems Librarian supports all aspects of the work of the Digital Programs and Initiatives department. The Systems Librarian actively works with staff throughout the UMD Libraries to gather requirements for development of new digital initiatives and programs and provides support and instruction to UMD Libraries’ staff in the installation, development, and use of digital applications. The Systems Librarian collaborates closely with staff in the Software Systems Development and Research department to implement new and upgraded applications, perform quality assurance testing, and to communicate issues clearly. Serving as a translator and bridge between UMD Libraries staff and technical departments, the Systems Librarian will ensure that all parties gain consensus regarding requirements and project scope. The Systems Librarian serves as an active member of Digital Systems and Stewardship, contributing to divisional initiatives and leading specific projects; incorporates support for new tools and applications into library services; and maintains close engagement with issues relating to digital technologies, such as repository development, digital curation and preservation, and metadata.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
-Develops requirements for new software applications to meet the needs of the department;
-Ensures the preservation of the UMD Libraries’ digital assets through file inventorying and archiving;
-Maintains and troubleshoots both legacy systems and new systems;
-Collaborates closely with both technical and non-technical staff from throughout the UMD Libraries, and communicates clearly with all stakeholders;
-Participates in the development and execution of digital projects throughout their life-cycle, from conceptualization to long-term preservation of the results;
-Conceives and develops scripts in support of departmental needs and specifically in order to allow staff to carry out large, complex tasks more efficiently;
-Investigates and implements new technologies and research tools to support the work of the UMD Libraries;
-Writes reports, articles and presentations related to digital programs and initiatives, for example, presenting to UMD Libraries staff about new technologies;
-Participates in library and campus committees as appropriate;
-Performs other duties, as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Master’s degree in Library or Information Science from an ALA-accredited institution of higher education by date of hire.
Experience: Demonstrated knowledge of the architecture and technologies of the World Wide Web, including HTML and CSS; knowledge of databases, data modeling, and SQL; knowledge of current best practices in the field of digital preservation; advanced knowledge of XML, and familiarity with the many XML-based metadata schemas and standards commonly used in digital librarianship (including EAD, MODS, METS, Dublin Core, etc.); comfortable with a Unix server environment, including the installation of software packages and setup, configuration and troubleshooting of new server-based applications; demonstrated ability and willingness to learn new languages as needed; demonstrated ability to conceive and develop scripts (in for example shell, Perl, Python, or another modern programming language); ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, and work on multiple projects; understanding of and interest in the academic research and scholarly communication environment of a large research university.
Preferences:
Education: Specialization in digital librarianship.
Experience: Experience with the FedoraCommons digital repository architecture. Experience with special collections and archival and manuscript materials. Demonstrated knowledge of Javascript; good project management skills. Experience with DSpace and/or other digital library applications, such as Open Journal Systems or ArchivesSpace.
Closing Date: 07/25/2014