Head of Archives & Special Collections, UConn Library, Storrs, CT

Posted August 28, 2017

Job Opening ID: 2018047

Rank: University Librarian III (UCP 9) or University Librarian IV (UCP 10)

Area: UConn Library, University Archives, Special Collections & Digital Curation 

The Head of Archives & Special Collections creates innovation and change while respecting the principles and traditions of the profession, and articulates this vision to internal and external stakeholders. In particular, there will be a focus on the statewide digital preservation repository program (CTDA), the Library’s scholarly communications programs, including the Greenhouse Studios | Scholarly Design at UConn, and the Library’s conservation and digital capture labs. This position serves a critical role in the research and teaching mission of the University, ensuring development of, and ongoing access to, many of the Library’s unique and distinct collections for use by students and researchers. 

The successful candidate will preferably have experience in an academic setting, but most importantly have experience leading an innovative and flexible archival, cultural heritage, or memory organization or unit that makes use of current and emerging technologies in the service of organizational goals and to further the knowledge and understanding of the profession as a whole.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provides leadership, vision, and innovation for Archives & Special Collections, actively advances and adapts to forward progress towards the Area’s and Library’s strategic goals.
• Directs, plans, and communicates Archives & Special Collections efforts with a focus on:
• Innovative public outreach and services to students, scholars, and citizens;
• Technical and operational workflows designed to increase efficiency and automation in processing unique collections in all formats;
• Developing and stewarding existing collections and identifying and pursuing new collections that reflect and support the institutional mission;
• Pursuing funds necessary to support programs and collections through donor cultivation and support, grant writing, and collaborative projects.
• Determines Unit priorities and directs annual goal setting for Archives & Special Collections; ensures coordination and alignment of individual and Unit goals to Area, Library, and University priorities, services, and initiatives.
• Serves as primary resource for other Library units, University offices, academic departments, and outside agencies regarding Archives & Special Collections’ services and procedures.

Shared Expectations for Staff Supervisors

• Assigns, oversees, reviews, and evaluates work of direct reports. Establishes work schedule(s) and approve timecard(s).  Maintains supervisory files.
• Promotes inclusivity and is communicative about priorities, opportunities, and challenges.  Encourages new thinking and ideas and actively fosters open communication.
• Follows the Performance Management Guidelines as outlined by the Library’s Office of the Vice Provost, UConn’s Department of Human Resources, and the staff member’s contractually specified evaluation process.
• Provides training and assistance to each direct report. Supports involvement in professional development activities and provides internal development opportunities as appropriate to each position.

Shared Expectations for All Staff

• Participates in Library-wide strategic planning and actively contributes to Area and Unit priorities, initiatives, and/or operations through collaboration and cooperation.
• Demonstrates reliable and effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Maintains currency and open communication in ongoing trends and developments related to position responsibilities.
• Acts independently in the performance of everyday tasks and responsibilities.
• Works effectively in current office applications, software, and communication tools as set by the Library and/or University of Connecticut.
• Performs duties parallel to position responsibilities as required.

Minimum Qualifications for Appointment at Both Ranks

• A graduate degree in Library and Information Science from a program accredited by the American Library Association or international equivalent.
• Minimum of six years’ professional experience in a library, archive, or other cultural heritage environment, filling progressively responsible roles.
• Minimum of two years’ supervisory experience, including planning and change management practices. 
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to think strategically, be forward thinking, and embrace change management strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse group of researchers, donors, and staff.
• Knowledge of and experience working with digital repository systems and digital curation.
• Demonstrated expertise in current archival management practices, policies, and procedures.
• Demonstrated leadership and excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience managing a budget.
• Evidence of sustained participation in professional activities at a statewide or regional level.
• Willingness to travel and work a flexible schedule.

Additional Minimum Qualifications for Appointment at University Librarian IV (UCP 10)

• Minimum of nine years’ professional experience in a library, archive, or other cultural heritage environment, filling progressively responsible roles.
• Evidence of active involvement in professional activities at a statewide, regional, or national level.

Preferred Qualifications for Appointment at Both Ranks

• Evidence of scholarly and professional achievement in archives and special collections.
• Advanced degree in a subject or disciplinary area relevant to the position.
• Experience in an academic research library.
• Demonstrated ability to actively engage in donor relations, collection solicitation, fundraising, and gift management.

This is a full time position based in Storrs with an anticipated start date of December, 2017. The University offers a competitive salary, outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn and a highly desirable work environment. Salary is dependent upon education, qualifications, and experience. 

Applications must be submitted online using UConn Jobs at http://www.jobs.uconn.edu (reference 2018047) and include a cover letter, detailed resume, and contact information for three professional references.

Nominations and inquiries should be sent in confidence to [email protected]. To ensure full consideration, inquiries and applications should be submitted by Sunday, September 10^th. Employment of the successful candidate will be contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.