Dean of Libraries, University of Maryland, (College Park, MD)
Posted January 4, 2024
The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) seeks an experienced, innovative, and visionary Dean of University Libraries (Dean) committed to strengthening a distinguished university library system. This is a compelling opportunity for an entrepreneurial thought leader who can leverage the university’s considerable academic strengths as a major research institution, the unique advantages afforded by its prime location, and its overriding commitment to excellence in education and research.
UMD is the state’s flagship university and one of the nation’s preeminent public research universities. Chartered in 1856 as a land grant university, it has grown into a global leader in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation. UMD is home to over 41,000 students, 14,000 faculty and staff, and 352,000 alumni. Located just outside Washington, DC, UMD is widely known and respected for its academic stature and impact. It is ranked among the top 20 public institutions in the country by the 2024 U.S. News and World Report. Competitively awarded research grants total more than $500 million. It has been a member of the Association of American Universities since 1969 and the Big Ten Academic Alliance since 2014.
Reporting to the Senior Vice President & Provost, the Dean will oversee the most extensive university library system in the Washington D.C.-Baltimore area, with seven libraries that serve as the academic keystone supporting the university’s teaching, learning, and research goals. The successful candidate must be dynamic, strategic, entrepreneurial, and innovative in recognizing and leveraging opportunities as well as in identifying and overcoming constraints. Ultimately, the next Dean will provide the collaborative leadership to develop and achieve a vision of a university library in the 21st century; a clear understanding of the significant challenges facing research university libraries in a time of complex and extended transition of information resources; the ability to develop and maintain mutually beneficial partnerships across campus and to engage, influence, and facilitate synergies with UMD’s external constituents—including state, regional and national consortia and organizations; an advanced understanding of digital technology trends and their impact on information management infrastructure; a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice, developing a diverse workforce and to advancing diversity goals; and proven experience or potential for success in fundraising, donor cultivation, and public relations. The successful candidate will be qualified to be awarded the rank of Librarian IV with Permanent Status or that of Professor in an academic unit.
Review of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Nominations, inquiries, and applications, including a CV and letter of interest, should be submitted below. Electronic submission of materials is strongly encouraged.
Sean Farrell is leading this search with Robin Dougherty.
The University of Maryland, College Park, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, creed, marital status, political affiliation, personal appearance, or on the basis of rights secured by the First Amendment, in all aspects of employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.
How to Apply
For more information and to apply, please go to the following: https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/university-maryland/dean-libraries