Head of Collections and Systems Librarian

Opening Details

Williams Libraries seeks a collaborative and forward-thinking librarian to lead our department of Collections and Systems. We believe that our collections are a vital component of how we develop inclusive library services for our increasingly diverse community. Our new Head of Collections & Systems will be excited to lead the department and the collection liaison librarians in developing collections that meet the needs of the Williams community through bibliodiverse collections, critical and culturally inclusive cataloging, and that contribute to building an open, sustainable, scholarly communications infrastructure.

We develop collections that support evolving academic priorities and an inclusive community with diverse needs. We make our collections accessible and discoverable, while balancing digital and print formats through agile and flexible funding. We value excellent personal service, innovative library services, and effective intellectual access to collections.

The successful candidate will embrace a flexible, responsive approach to the administration of a newly merged Collections & Systems department and be a member of the Libraries leadership team. This is a continuing, full-time appointment reporting to the Director of Libraries.


Responsibilities

• Prepare and monitor spending of a $3 million collections budget
• Supervise three librarians and seven staff members responsible for e-resource licensing, acquisition, description and organization of library materials in all formats, and the systems that provide access to these collections
• Lead the libraries’ e-resource and collection licensing negotiations
• Coordinate our overall collection strategy and the collection development work of liaison librarians
• Serve as a member of the Libraries leadership team and the Libraries Budget Management Group
• Cooperate closely with the Special Collections, Research Services, and Access Services staff to ensure our collections are accessible and discoverable

Qualifications

While we anticipate that many applicants will have earned a graduate degree in library/information science from an ALA-accredited institution, or one in a related field, we will accept an equivalent mix of education and experience.

Research indicates that applicants with marginalized identities are hesitant to apply for positions if they do not meet all of the required and preferred qualifications. We want to emphasize that the preferred qualifications are not required and that we are committed to helping our future colleagues develop these preferred skills. We strongly encourage those who are passionate about supporting our mission through systems administration to apply.

Required:

• MLIS or equivalent mix of education and experience
• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience, including some experience supervising people, and some experience with budget management and analysis, financial planning, and contract negotiation
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented organization
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to a rapidly evolving information landscape
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills

Preferred:

• Experience with the Ex Libris Alma library services platform (LSP) or an equivalent integrated library system (ILS)
• Familiarity with current standards for cataloging, description, and classification

Application review will begin on October 5, 2021. Pay starts in the high $70,000s, commensurate with experience. Job band 2-D. Please visit https://staff-careers.williams.edu/ to apply.


Conditions of Employment

Employment at Williams is contingent on the verification of background information submitted by the applicant, including the completion of a criminal record check, and education when applicable.


Equal Employment Opportunity

Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Williams College is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where members from all backgrounds can live, learn and thrive. As part of this commitment, we will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process please feel free to contact us via phone at (413) 597-2681 or email at hr@williams.edu.