the client seeks an experienced, dedicated, and strategic Dean of the University Libraries to lead during a period of transformation, progress, and growth. This leader will champion the enduring value of a strong academic library and advance its role as a vibrant intellectual hub and core academic asset, supporting teaching, research, and intellectual curiosity across the university community. The Dean will help shape the library’s future direction while maintaining the institution’s distinctiveness.
Reporting to the Provost, the Dean will build a transformational vision by leveraging existing strengths and addressing ongoing challenges facing academic libraries. The role will involve staying current with developments in library science and proactively exploring opportunities in scholarly communications and publishing, with the goal of benefiting the libraries and the broader university community. The Dean leads a team of 64 professionals, including six direct reports, and oversees areas including Special Collections Research Center, Collection and Content Services, Research and Public Services, Development, and External Relations.
The ideal candidate will bring demonstrated leadership and analytical abilities, along with a deep understanding of higher education and academic librarianship. The Dean is expected to have extensive experience in collaborative, innovative, digital, and interdisciplinary environments, and familiarity with current issues such as information services, pedagogy and inquiry, digital libraries and library technologies, scholarly communication, assessment, strategic planning, and advocacy. The position requires an ALA-accredited graduate degree in library or information science and/or an advanced degree in an academic discipline, plus significant leadership experience in academic libraries.