University Archives and Special Collections (UASC) is composed of two distinct collections—the official archives of the University in multiple formats and some 30 distinctive special collections in a variety of different subjects. Reporting to the Dean of Libraries, the University Archivist and Special Collections Librarian provides leadership with the department in accordance with the libraries’ goals and strategic planning; facilitates communication about UASC within the university libraries, throughout the university community and to the general public of current and potential users.

This is a tenure-track library faculty position. Applicants must hold an ALA-accredited MLIS preferably with a concentration in archives or some advanced training in archives, manuscripts and special collections. A second post-baccalaureate degree or similar proof of advanced study is required for tenure. The successful candidate also will have three to five years of significant experience in an archives or special-collections environment, including at least three years of supervisory and budgetary responsibilities, as well as a broad understanding of archival-related activities in an academic-research-library setting.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

•coordinate all aspects of special collections and archives operations including ongoing acquisition of relevant material; preservation, conservation and management of collections; maintenance of intellectual control; and development of access and usage policies appropriate to both physical and virtual collections

•provide overall supervisory oversight of staff including full- and part-time librarians/ archivists, an administrative assistant and student employees

•oversee formulation and periodic review of collection-development and materials-selection policies and profiles; oversee policies related to use of both collections

•oversee specialized collection management functions, including handling of gift materials, selection and de-selection collection processes, identification of potential conservation and preservation materials in the general collection, and collection analysis

•maintain a strategic-development plan that will encompass growth and enhancement of the library’s physical and digital collections documenting the history and functions of the university

•monitor resources within the department, including faculty/staff, budget, equipment, space and physical facilities

•work collaboratively with staff to set priorities, create strategic plans and documentation, and meet project deadlines

•foster communication and collegiality within the department and with other departments in the library

•collaborate with university faculty and staff and all divisions of the libraries to develop digital collections, both digitized and born-digital; establish digitization priorities for print and AV collections; and ensure that digitization projects are successfully completed

•support a high level of public service and dedication to the libraries’ mission within its department

•promote use of primary resources within university courses and research

•cultivate relationships with current and prospective donors of unique special collections and archival materials

•collaborate with department faculty/staff and library leadership to identify potential grant and funding sources, prepare required applications and manage funded projects

•work closely with department faculty/staff to develop programs and exhibits that will promote collections and contribute to the mission and vision of the libraries and the university.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

•collection development for and liaison with one or more schools or departments

•participation in the libraries’ information-literacy program

•provision of services at Swirlbul Library’s main reference desk including occasional evenings and weekends

•service on university and library committees

•active participation in professional associations and activities and in scholarly activities including research and publishing as required for reappointment and tenure.

QUALIFICATIONS.  Knowledge of standards-based archival description and metadata schema, such as EAD, XML, MODS and Dublin Core. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively in a collegial environment. Evidence of ability to meet criteria for promotion and tenure. Experience with digitization projects, archival database-management systems and website construction.

Other desirable qualifications include: familiarity with ContentDM and Archivist’s Toolkit; experience with records-retention policies and schedules, exhibits and writing grant proposals; familiarity with basic preservation and conservation standards for archival and rare-books collections; and demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate and implement effective programs, complex projects and services.

PROFILE.  Adelphi University, chartered in 21896, was the first institution of higher education for liberal arts and sciences on Long Island. It is in a dynamic period of transformation and rebuilding, and offers a broad array of programs to a diverse student population of 8,000. The libraries serve the main Garden City campus and locations in Manhattan, Hudson Valley and Hauppauge. For more information, www.adelphi.edu

APPLICATION.  Screening of applications begins December 2013, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Position available immediately. Submit letter of application, CV, and names and addresses of three references.

Brian K.Lym, Dean of University Libraries

Tel (516) 877-3520

Fax (516) 877-3673