Jobs

Posted 21 November 2011

Nordic Studies Librarian/Assistant Instruction Coordinator
University of Washington

Deadline: 31 January

THE LIBRARIES:

Among the largest academic research libraries in North America, the University of Washington Libraries has a collection of more than seven million cataloged volumes, an equal number in microform format, more than 50,000 serial titles, and several million items in other formats. Students and faculty recognize the value provided by the Libraries and rank the Libraries as the most important source of information for their work. The Libraries also receives the highest satisfaction rating of any academic service on the surveys of graduating seniors conducted by the Office of Educational Assessment. The Libraries was commended in the University's 2003 accreditation review for its rich collection, well-qualified staff, and "exceptional service to students, staff development, and a commitment to planning and assessment of service."

THE REFERENCE AND RESEARCH SERVICES DIVISION:

The Nordic Studies Librarian/Assistant Instruction Coordinator reports to the Head of the Reference and Research Services Division.  The Division provides virtual and on-site information and reference services in the humanities, social sciences, many of the sciences, and international studies.  Information Services, Suzzallo Reference, Government Publications, Maps the Microforms and Newspaper collection, Data Services, and the
Research Commons comprise the Division.   Librarians provide consultation,
reference, and instruction services for their academic departments.

THE POSITION:

The University of Washington Libraries seeks an energetic Nordic Studies Librarian committed to providing a range of services and collections. The Nordic Studies Librarian works with one of the premier departments of Scandinavian Studies in the United States. The Department has come to expect that this librarian will have a high degree of accessibility and visibility, actively disseminating information to students and faculty, and collaborating on projects and curriculum initiatives.  The Nordic Studies Librarian typically attends faculty meetings and other departmental events, and is available for activities involving visitors to the campus.  The Libraries enjoys a strong relationship with the Scandinavian community, and the successful candidate will be expected to sustain this connection.  The Nordic Studies Librarian seeks grants as appropriate, manages several endowment funds, and works with donors.  The position collaborates and interacts regularly with the Baltic Studies Librarian. As Assistant Instruction Coordinator, the position works with the Undergraduate Instruction Coordinator to design, implement, and coordinate information literacy programs for University of Washington students.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

         Provides consultation and instruction services to the Department of Scandinavian Studies.

         Selects print and electronic resources for the collection.

         Creates and maintains web pages to support instruction and research.

         Participates in providing general reference service through desk and virtual services.

         Participates in the Libraries digital initiatives efforts.

         Contributes to the Division's programs and services.

         Meets with donors and fosters donor relations.

         Collaborates with subject librarians, teaching assistants, and faculty to develop the user education program.

         Assists in the general coordination of the Libraries undergraduate education program in teaching information literacy skills, research methodology, and library orientation.

         Coordinates instruction for core undergraduate courses in the Expository Writing Program.

         Serves on the Libraries Teaching and Learning Group (TLG), as part of an interdisciplinary team of instruction librarians to cultivate the practice and scholarship of discipline-based teaching and curriculum design.

         Plays an active role in recruiting, training, and supporting Suzzallo librarians and Student Reference Assistants to participate in the Libraries teaching and learning program.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

         Graduate degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association or an  equivalent graduate library science/information studies degree.

         Demonstrated commitment to diversity and understanding of the contributions a diverse workforce brings to the work place.

         Ability to converse in at least one of the Scandinavian languages and reading knowledge of the other Scandinavian languages.

         Knowledge of resources and contemporary research issues in the field of Scandinavian Studies.

         Evidence of a desire to continue learning in the area of Scandinavian Studies and languages.

         Ability to work independently and with others in a demanding and rapidly changing environment where consultation, collaboration, and cooperation are essential.

         Experience or strong interest in developing and providing information literacy instruction.

         Demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills; evidence of strong written and oral communication skills.

     Preferred:

         Minimum of two years post MLS (or equivalent degree) professional experience working in a library or library-related position.

         Undergraduate or graduate degree in Scandinavian Studies, demonstrating broad knowledge across disciplines and with an emphasis on the culture (e.g., history, political science, literature).

         Experience in developing collections and providing instruction in Scandinavian Studies.

         Reference experience in an academic library.

         Evidence of planning and providing user education programs in an academic library.

         Demonstrated experience working creatively, collaboratively, and effectively with colleagues, faculty and students.

        Knowledge of current and emerging information technology as it contributes to meeting the needs of researchers in the disciplines.

         Evidence of contributions to the profession.

         Evidence of initiative and resourcefulness in past activities.

SALARY: $45,000 minimum.  Starting salary commensurate with qualifications and background.

BENEFITS: Librarians are academic personnel and participate in the University of Washington Retirement Plan (TIAA-CREF, the Vanguard Group, and/or Fidelity Investments) on a matching basis.  Vacation is accrued at the rate of 24 working days per year; sick leave at the rate of 12 working days per year. Excellent medical, dental and life insurance plans.  No state or local income tax.

APPLICATION PROCESS: To apply for this position, please submit the following information to
libhr@uw.edu:

         * Cover letter (addressed to Charles Chamberlin, Senior Associate Dean of University Libraries)

          Curriculum vitae or resume (include a telephone number, mailing address, email address and salary requirements)

         List of three references who are knowledgeable of your qualifications for this position (include telephone numbers, mailing addresses, and email addresses)

         Please use "Librarian Application" in the subject heading

         PDF format is preferred (MS Word and text will also be accepted). If possible, please submit all three components in a single, multi-page PDF document.  All submissions will be maintained in a secure, password protected online file space.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: To ensure consideration, applications should be received no later than 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 31, 2012.

University of Washington Libraries Home Page is http://www.lib.washington.edu. University of Washington, an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, is building a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourages applications from female and minority candidates. In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the University is required to verify and document the citizenship or employment authorization of each new employee.