Head of Collections Librarian

Website University of Mary Washington

The University of Mary Washington’s Simpson Library invites applications for the position of Head of Collections Librarian.

  • In collaboration with the librarians and the faculty, the Head of Collections manages the development of the library’s collections and policies in support of the University’s curriculum and user needs.
  • Leads the Collection Services Department and oversees collection development, acquisitions, vendor negotiations, and e-resource management. Supervise two full-time staff – E-Resources Librarian and Government Documents Specialist.
  • Negotiates and monitors license agreements of new and renewing purchases.
  • Coordinates selection of library materials in all formats using various acquisition methods, such as one-time purchases, annual and multi-year subscriptions, approval plans, standing orders, patron-driven acquisitions (PDA/DDA), and evidence-based acquisitions (EBA).
  • Meets with vendors to review accounts and learn about product updates and new offers. Collects, analyzes, and reports annual cost and usage data for electronic resources.
  • Engages in ongoing collection assessment using various tools and methods. Chairs the assessment committee and leads library-wide assessment activities to inform strategic planning and decision-making.

In addition to these responsibilities, this position serves on the reference desk one Sunday each semester and serves on library and campus committees.
This position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that includes some remote work consistent with UMW’s telework policy – https://adminfinance.umw.edu/hr/handbooks-forms-policies/policies-and-procedures/telework-policy/

Required KSAs / Competencies

  • Familiarity with collection development, library service best practices, and emerging library technologies.
  • Ability to understand and apply requirements and processes for resource licensing, working with service vendors, and copyright compliance.
  • Strong understanding of data collection and related tools to inform decision-making.
  • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Preferred KSA’s / Competencies

  • Evidence of course work, conference attendance, and/or experience in collection development and/or electronic resources librarianship.

Required Education

Masters degree in Library Science from an institution accredited by the American Library Association.

Required Experience

  • Experience working with licensed electronic resources and collections management in a library environment.
  • Experience understanding and applying requirements and processes for resource licensing, working with service vendors, and copyright compliance

Preferred Experience

  • Experience with an integrated library system and/or electronic resources management system.
  • Experience working in collection development at an academic institution.
  • Experience working with discovery platforms (Primo and related components in Alma).
  • Experience completing collection assessment projects.
  • Experience supervising staff.

Required Documents

  1. Resume / Curriculum Vitae
  2. Cover Letter
  3. Unofficial Transcript

The University of Mary Washington accepts only completed online application and related materials. Faxed, mailed, or emailed applications or documentation will not be considered. Employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of criminal background checks. If accommodations are requested either before or at the time of the interview, please contact the Recruitment Office at 540-654-1238.