Library Director - Preston Library

Virginia Military Institute invites applications for the Director of Preston Library.  Reporting to the Deputy Superintendent for Academics and Dean of the Faculty through the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, the Library Director provides leadership and strategic vision for all aspects of library operations and works with stakeholders to support the Institute’s academic mission. The successful candidate will foster a culture of innovation and collaboration to ensure the Library provides superior services, resources, and learning environments that support the academic success and scholarly pursuits of the VMI community.

VMI Library

The new Director will lead the Library’s staff in realizing the full potential of a newly completed $19.2 million renovation that provided state-of-the-art learning spaces and capabilities, including a new Learning Commons and smart classrooms for library instruction, group study, and other innovative programming.

Preston Library employs 7 professional, 4 classified, and 2 hourly staff, and approximately 30 cadet assistants, and includes the staff of the VMI Archives. The Library currently uses Koha ILS, WorldCat Discovery Service, CONTENTdm, ArchivesSpace, ILLiad, and SpringShare CMS and participates in regional and national associations, including the Virtual Library of Virginia.

The Library maintains a collaborative relationship with the Institute’s Department of Information Technology and is an important resource for academic enrichment and support programs. The Library houses and is a close partner of the VMI Center for Undergraduate Research and the Office of Sponsored Programs.

Core Responsibilities:

• Establish and implement the strategic direction for Library operations to align with the Institute’s vision, mission, and values.
• Supervise the Library’s five internal departments: Archives & Records Management, Research & Instruction, Systems & Technology, Technical Services, and User Services.
• Establish and maintain positive and productive working relationships throughout the Institute, community, and professional organizations.
• Lead, mentor, and encourage Library staff in collegiality, collaboration, and user-centered services.
• Implement library procedures and policies that advance the diversity, equity, and inclusion goals

of the Institute.

• Manage the Library’s budget and develop budget requests consistent with academic planning priorities.
• Develop and implement an assessment plan for Library operations and services, with support from the Office of Assessment and Institutional Research, to ensure continuous improvement and accreditation.
• Advocate for Library enhancements including services, collections, emerging technologies, personnel, and facilities.
• Serve on Institute committees as appropriate, including the Board of Directors of Friends of Preston Library.
• Model excellence in professional development and continue to enhance professional skills and awareness of trends and best practices in academic libraries.
  

Required qualifications:

• Master’s or doctoral degree from an American Library Association-accredited program or equivalent degree.
• Minimum of six years of administrative experience in academic libraries with a strong record of progressive leadership, efficient management of resources, and responsible supervision of personnel.
• A record of effective strategic planning.
• A record of success in leading library staff effectively and fostering a positive team-based working environment.
• Demonstrated advocacy of the role of the library in meeting the evolving needs of campus constituencies.
• Proven ability to develop and maintain relationships across the academic and larger communities.
• Record of innovation while appreciating traditional library services.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams in small- and large- scale projects.
• Demonstrated experience in financial planning and budget administration.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• A record of professional achievement in scholarship and professional service that suggests a commitment to growth and development.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary is competitive, commensurate with experience. As a state institution, VMI offers an attractive benefits package, including health and dental insurance and retirement options. The details are available online in the Administrative/Professional Faculty Handbook.

Application instructions

Candidates must apply online at:  https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/229267

In addition to the online application please include a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. 

Review of online applications will begin 26 July 2021, although applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Initial interviews will be conducted in August 2021 via Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

Start date is flexible.

Virginia Military Institute is a state-supported four-year undergraduate military college offering leading academic programs in the liberal arts, engineering, and the sciences. It is located in the southern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Lexington, Virginia (pop. 7,000), is also home to Washington & Lee University and offers a stimulating cultural atmosphere in a pleasant, rural setting. Staff wear uniforms but no prior military experience is required.

In a continuing effort to enrich its academic environment and provide equal education and employment opportunities, VMI encourages women, minorities, disabled individuals, and veterans to apply. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are also encouraged to apply. VMI will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with documented disabilities to ensure equal access and equal opportunities with regard to employment, educational opportunities, programs and services.