Dean of the University Library

About the role

The Helen K. and James S. Copley Library serves as a vibrant intellectual and cultural hub, anchoring the university’s commitment to academic excellence. With a full renovation completed in 2021, the library hosts over 280,000 visitors annually and blends expansive collections with cutting-edge digital access and personalized research support. Beyond its collections, Copley Library offers dynamic study spaces, meeting facilities, and co-curricular programming that foster collaboration and community.

Responsibilities

• Shape and advance a bold, forward-looking vision and strategic plan for the library.
• Foster a culture of trust, transparency, and collaboration while ensuring organizational effectiveness.
• Build on the library’s strengths as a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement, and student success.
• Lead innovation in digital scholarship, artificial intelligence, and research infrastructure aligned with USD’s growth as an R2 institution.
• Strengthen strategic partnerships locally, nationally, and globally to enhance USD’s visibility and impact.
• Elevate the library’s profile through effective advocacy and fundraising.

Requirements

• Hold a Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MLS) (or equivalent degree) from an ALA-accredited institution.
• A scholarly record appropriate for the appointment of tenure in the Copley Library.
• A proven record of inclusive leadership, guiding organizational change, exceptional communication skills, and enhancing knowledge creation and dissemination across the university and beyond.
• A deep commitment to the mission and values of contemporary Catholic higher education.

Qualifications

• Experience in academic administration and library management.
• Strong operational and financial acumen.
• Collaborative, shared governance approach to leadership.
• Ability to assess and refine structures, processes, and policies.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Skills

• Strategic planning and implementation.
• Leadership and management of library operations.
• Collaboration and partnership building.
• Advocacy and fundraising.
• Knowledge of digital scholarship and research infrastructure.
• Global engagement and cross-cultural collaboration.

Benefits

• Medical coverage.
• Dental coverage.
• Vision coverage.
• Roth 403(b) retirement contribution.
• Access to on-campus fitness centers.