Director Library

at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, United States

Job Description

Friends University is seeking to fill the Library Director position in Wichita Kansas. The Full-Time Library Director provides strategic leadership for all functions of the library in collaboration with other academic units and in support of  the mission of the University; serves as primary advocate for the library.Responsibilities:

Management and Leadership (35%)

• Direct day-to-day library operations, manage library personnel, and maintain overall responsibility for the physical library building, including coordination with physical plant, the Academic Resource Center, and student-athlete study hall, as needed.
• Establish a collaborative and student-focused team culture that enhances the library’s reputation for warmth, hospitality, and service.
• In consultation with university administrators, develop the library’s operating budget in a transparent and data-informed manner, and coordinate library practices and procedures with university policies.
• Allocate financial resources by making purchasing decisions and purchases, paying and reconciling all invoices and credit card statements.

Outreach and Development (25%)

• Develop and maintain the library as a hub for student learning and innovation.
• Proactively consult with faculty and administrators to determine the resource and service needs of academic departments and programs.
• Establish and evaluate strategic and long-range plans for the library and its personnel.
• Network and grow connections in appropriate professional organizations to stay current with trends in library services.

Instruction and Engagement (20%)

• Serve as the primary ambassador for the library, actively promoting library services and programs, representing the library at campus events, and maintaining a strong presence with faculty, staff, and students.
• Participate in course-based library instruction, student orientations, information literacy initiatives, and research consultation services.
• Develop programs and policies in support of academic programs and key areas such as information literacy, student and faculty research, grant writing, and technology; seek ways to integrate research skills across the curriculum

Technology and Effectiveness (20%)

• Oversee development of the physical collection, subscriptions, electronic information resources, and receipt of library donations, guided by usage data, curricular relevance, and budget priorities.
• Manage digital systems and resources that support access and discovery, including the catalog, research guides, authentication system, and social media.
• Assess the quality and effectiveness of library programs and services; seek opportunities for continuous improvement

Experience:  Minimum of five years of experience in an academic library, including supervisory and/or administrative responsibilities.

Education:  Master’s degree in Library or Information Science required; additional graduate degree in an academic discipline preferred.

Interpersonal Skills:  Courtesy, tact, and diplomacy are essential elements of the job. Work involves much personal contact with others inside and/or outside the organization for purposes of giving or obtaining information, soliciting cooperation, outreach, and building relationships. Servant leader with strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.

Other Skills:  Leadership and team-building skills, with an ability to innovate and inspire engagement and collaboration across campus. Demonstrated expertise with information technology and library systems. Commitment to undergraduate and graduate student success, educational excellence, and the integration of faith and learning

Please visit our employment site at https://www.friends.edu/employment-opportunities/  to apply.  Only applications submitted through this Friends University website application process will be accepted.

Friends University aspires to be a model of excellence in higher education. As an expression of our Christian faith, we aim to prepare our students for success in a diverse and interconnected world by providing transformative learning experiences that embrace different viewpoints. As we seek individuals to join our Friends University community, we encourage candidates who share our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion to apply. Join us as we continue on this journey towards a more just and inclusive future for all.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Friends University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.