Head of Instruction and Reference

Drew University is seeking a Head of Instruction and Reference in the University Library. Reporting to the Director of the Library, this 12 month Library Faculty position will provide leadership for the full range of research assistance to students, faculty, and staff. This position will ensure that the scope and caliber of library instruction and reference supports the curriculum and mission of the University.

Key Responsibilities:

• Articulate vision and guide program development to transform ways the library partners with faculty and students in leveraging and applying technologies to advance their scholarship, curricular, and co-curricular needs.
• Lead a team of librarians to deliver reference and instruction services and participate as an equal partner in same. Create and deliver course-related and course-integrated reference and instruction in virtual, in-person, and hybrid environments.
• Collaborate with department colleagues to enhance the instructional program, and support communication efforts with the campus community.
• Under guidance of the Library Director, design and perform ongoing assessment of activities and services in Reference and Instruction.
• Maintain contact and collaborate with academic support services on supporting curricular and research projects on campus.
• Coordinate library activities for the university's orientation programs.
• Participate in other projects and initiatives to be determined based on the strategic direction of the University and library and perform other related duties to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in Library Science (or equivalent) from an ALA accredited library program.
• Professional experience related to program or team management.
• Experience with reference and instruction in an academic or research library.
• Creativity, initiative, and interest in innovative approaches to reference, instruction and public services.
• Demonstrated understanding of cutting edge issues and trends in reference and instruction.
• Demonstrated excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to foster positive working relationships and build partnerships.
• Effective time, organizational, and project management skills with the ability to work independently and as a member of a collaborative team.
• Demonstrated ability to work proactively and effectively with faculty.
• Willingness to experiment and take risks in the profession.

Desired Skills and Experience:

● Second advanced degree in an academic discipline

● Demonstrated effective leadership in appropriate library management positions.

Desired qualifications are not required. The Libraries are committed to enabling the colleague recruited for this position to develop those skills. Individuals with an interest in the position who meet the required qualifications are strongly encouraged to apply.

Occasional weekend and evening hours may be required.

This position offers some possibility for flexible work arrangements; however, the expectation is that the successful candidate will work primarily on-site.

How to Apply:

To apply, submit the following materials.

● Cover letter

● CV

● Contact Information of 3 professional references

Open until filled. Application review will begin on June 12, 2023 on a rolling basis; early applications are encouraged.

About Drew University:

Drew University, a Phi Beta Kappa liberal arts university, includes the College of Liberal Arts, the Drew Theological School and the Caspersen School of Graduate Studies. Drew is located on a beautiful, wooded campus in Madison, New Jersey, a thriving small town close to New York City.

It has a total enrollment of more than 2,200 students and has 136 full-time faculty members, 96% of whom hold the terminal degree in their field. The Theological and Caspersen schools offer master’s and doctoral degrees, and the College confers BA and BS degrees in 40 disciplines and offers 19 dual-degree programs.

Drew’s one-of-a-kind, leading edge path to an undergraduate degree, Launch , ensures that every student graduates with a purpose, sought-after transferable skills, a network of mentors, and an experience-based résumé—guaranteed. Particularly noteworthy opportunities for undergraduates include the Charles A. Dana Research Institute for Scientists Emeriti (RISE), the Drew Summer Science Institute (DSSI), the Center for Civic Engagement, as well as seven New York City semesters and several international study abroad programs.

The Caspersen School of Graduate Studies offers a wide array of distinctive and flexible advanced degree programs designed to meet the needs of almost any busy schedule. All programs are based on Drew’s renowned commitment to faculty-student mentorship, opportunities for out-of-the-classroom experiential learning, and facilitating a robust intellectual community.

The Theological School has a distinguished history rooted in the United Methodist Church. Today, it serves many denominations as a center for preparing clergy and leaders for service in the church and the world. Its focus on biblical and theological scholarship and social justice has made it a sought after destination for students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees.

To enrich education through diversity, Drew University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Following federal and state requirements; a candidate must provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States if selected for hire.

These positions are subject to a background check.