Rare Books Librarian, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
Posted May 11, 2018
The University of Kentucky Libraries Special Collections Research Center seeks an enthusiastic and forward-thinking library/archives professional to attentively develop and promote its diverse collections of rare books and printed materials. The incumbent will serve faculty and students in a variety of disciplines across the curriculum and provide specialized reference, access, outreach, exhibition development, and instruction as part of the Research Services & Education team. Additionally, the position will administer the King Library Press and associated endowed fund, work closely with donors, collaborate with departments and administration across UK Libraries functions, and will have purchasing responsibilities for specific endowments associated with the development of the rare books and printed materials collections.
This is a full-time, tenure-track position.
For more information, click here.
Required Qualifications:
- MLS from an ALA-accredited institution, or an equivalent degree
- Three or more years of experience in an academic or Special Collections Library
- Demonstrated knowledge in a specialized field, especially related to literature, cultural history, languages, or other area(s) within UK’s rare book and print materials collections
The candidate should also demonstrate the following: initiative, flexibility, and excellent analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills; a demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse population of faculty, staff, student, and community members; the ability to view rare books through a progressive and critical lens, address issues of diversity and equity, and provide a broad range of historical perspectives. Additionally, the candidate must support UK Libraries Diversity Statement and Core Values.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience teaching with primary sources and/or rare materials
- Experience with donor relations and significant cultivation of private collectors
- Experience providing reference and access services (online and in person)
- Experience with rare books collection development and budget management
- Experience in grant writing and fundraising
- Experience with cataloging, conservation, and/or preservation standards and workflows
The University of Kentucky is a public, land grant university of approximately 32,000 students, 3,500 faculty, and 15,000 staff dedicated to improving people’s lives through excellence in education, research and creative work, service, and health care. With over 200 academic programs across sixteen colleges and professional schools, the University plays a critical leadership role by promotion diversity, inclusion, economic development, and human well-being.
Located in the beautiful bluegrass region of central Kentucky, the University of Kentucky Libraries includes the main William T. Young Library, Medical Center Library, Special Collections Research Center, Agricultural Information Center, Fine Arts Library, Design Library, Education Library, Transportation Library, Lexmark Library, and Science & Engineering Library. Combined library holdings total more than four million volumes. The system has a faculty of 60 and a support and professional staff of 108. UK Libraries currently uses the Ex Libris Alma and Primo systems. UK Libraries memberships include the Association of Research Libraries, LYRASIS, ASERL, and the Center for Research Libraries. UK is a regional depository for government publications.
To apply, interested applicants must attach two documents:
- Curriculum vitae
- Cover letter
Please include contact information for three references when prompted in the application. This information may be utilized to solicit recommendation letters from your references within the employment system.
The application deadline is June 10th, 2018.