Head of the University Archives & Special Collections

About the role

The University Archives & Special Collections is seeking a leader to provide strategic direction and oversight.

Responsibilities

• Develops and communicates a forward-thinking vision that integrates technology and preservation priorities into long-range planning.
• Establishes collection development priorities that strengthen institutional memory and scholarly value.
• Guides digital preservation strategies in collaboration with campus partners to ensure secure, sustainable storage and access.
• Collaborates with units within the Library to increase the visibility of the University Archives & Special Collections, integrating it into teaching, learning, and research initiatives.
• Builds strong partnerships with Advancement, Marketing & Communications, Alumni Relations, and academic units to elevate the University Archives & Special Collections’ presence and impact.
• Serves as an advocate for the Library and University by participating in professional activities and public engagement initiatives.
• Collaborates with the assessment librarian on quantitative and qualitative assessment activities to support data-driven planning and decision-making.
• Develops and implements library policies and procedures, establishing priorities for departmental projects and workflows.
• Champions innovative technologies that enhance discoverability, teaching use, and user experience.
• Ensures workflows for born-digital and digitized materials align with national archival standards and best practices.
• Coordinates assessment strategies to evaluate the effectiveness of digital engagement.
• Maintains security, continuity, and ethical stewardship of digital assets.
• Recruits, hires, and trains staff.
• Coaches and mentors staff, meeting with all direct reports individually and with one’s department/unit on a regular basis.
• Oversights the flow and quality of work, coordinating staffing schedules, and communicating effectively with staff concerning department/unit and library-wide matters.
• Evaluates performance.
• Embodies the mission and values of the Library and the University in our everyday work life.
• Communicates effectively with supervisor concerning pertinent Library and/or University matters.
• Assists in the discussion and formulation of policies and procedures.
• Keeps current with developments in job responsibilities.
• Acts as a responsible participant in staff, committee, and/or task force meetings.
• Attends and participates in Library and University events.
• Makes presentations and contributes to the development of the Library’s strategic initiatives.

Requirements

• Graduate degree in Library & Information Science (MLS or equivalent) from an ALA-accredited program with specialization or certification in archival practices.
• Second Master’s in subject-specific field, or equivalent experience, is preferred.
• Availability for evening and weekend work, as needed.

Qualifications

• Experience working with archival collections.
• Knowledge of professional archival standards and technologies.
• Ability to manage and supervise staff.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience with digital preservation and web archiving.
• Understanding of institutional memory and its importance.
• Experience with digital engagement and user experience.

Skills

• Strategic planning and implementation.
• Collection development and management.
• Digital preservation and security.
• Facilities management and maintenance.
• Partnership building and community engagement.
• Policy development and implementation.
• Technology and innovation.
• Leadership and management.
• Communication and interpersonal skills.
• Problem-solving and decision-making.

Benefits

Not specified.

Pay

Commensurate with experience.

Schedule

12-month role.

Category

Academic - Admin