Head of Library Community Engagement, Brown University, Providence, RI

Posted November 23, 2021

Description:

Reflecting Brown University’s values and commitments to Providence, Rhode Island, and the region, the Library’s strategic goals call for establishing a systematic approach to positive impact in our broader community. The Head of Library Community Engagement is responsible for building and implementing collaborative and strategic programs and initiatives with the Rhode Island community that will have collective, lasting impact for both the local and Brown communities. A new category of work at the Library, community engagement will be one of the key activities of the Library’s new Center for Library Exploration and Research (CLEAR).

The Head of Library Community Engagement will oversee programs that connect the resources of the Brown University Library to local schools, community organizations, public libraries, and the people they serve, as well as facilitate relationships with and among the community to inform and shape the Library’s work. Collaborative partnerships involving Library staff, faculty, students, and campus community engagement experts will leverage Library core capacities and resources to address community-identified needs; produce long-term, sustainable initiatives that will have a positive impact on the community and the Library; and provide Brown students with a formative social and educational experience.

The Head of Library Community Engagement will also form and sustain deep relationships with community organizations and members. As a provisional framework, community engagement is envisioned through three main channels:

K-12 Education: Activities that support teacher training, educational enrichment, and access to Library resources that contribute to Brown’s commitment to strengthening education in Providence and beyond, and connect with other K-12 initiatives on campus. Without precluding other possibilities, developing education-focused activities will be the first priority.

Library Projects and Programs: Strengthening community outreach/engagement as a regular component of Library initiatives involving collections, digital projects, exhibitions, etc. while at the same time identifying new opportunities from engagement activities to inspire and shape the content of Library projects and include the participation of community partners.
Other Partnerships: Working with other campus community engagement specialists to identify how the Library can help increase the impact of their work with community organizations in Providence and beyond.

Reporting directly to the Deputy University Librarian and joining the Library’s leadership team, the Head of Library Community Engagement will collaborate closely with Library colleagues, a network of community engagement practitioners across campus, and the substantial number of students and faculty who actively commit time and effort to community-facing work. The position also involves managing program resources and working with Library senior leadership and campus partners to raise additional grants and gifts to support this work.

Qualifications:

BA required; advanced degree or significant related professional experience required.
Minimum 5 years of relevant professional work.
Participation in and knowledge of successful community-based programs and partnerships.
Experience working at or with libraries (academic, school, public, or community), or similar institutions for public knowledge (e.g., museums, schools).
Familiarity with the Providence, Rhode Island, and regional communities is desirable

How to Apply:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

To view the full job description and apply, please visit: https://brown.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/staff-careers-brown/jobs/details/Head-of-Library-Community-Engagement_REQ173537?q=library

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact [email protected].