Job Description: Academic Librarian
Position: Academic Librarian
Department: Library and Information Science > Librarianship
Reports to: Library Director
Job Summary:
The Academic Librarian is responsible for providing comprehensive library services and support to faculty, students, and staff within an academic institution. This role involves managing and organizing library resources, assisting with research needs, instructing library users on effective information retrieval techniques, and promoting the use of library services and resources.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Manage and maintain the library's collection, including selecting, acquiring, cataloging, and processing materials in various formats.
2. Assist library users in locating and accessing relevant resources, providing guidance on research strategies, and promoting information literacy.
3. Collaborate with faculty and academic departments to develop and deliver tailored information literacy instruction sessions, workshops, and tutorials.
4. Conduct research consultations and provide reference services to library patrons, assisting with inquiries and resolving information needs.
5. Develop and maintain subject-specific research guides, bibliographies, and other instructional materials to support academic programs.
6. Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in librarianship, information retrieval, and scholarly communication, and apply them to enhance library services.
7. Collaborate with colleagues to assess and evaluate library resources, services, and programs, and make recommendations for improvements.
8. Participate in collection development activities, including evaluating and selecting materials based on user needs and curricular requirements.
9. Collaborate with other librarians and staff members to develop and implement library policies, procedures, and initiatives.
10. Participate actively in professional development activities, including attending conferences, workshops, and webinars, and staying updated on best practices in academic librarianship.
Qualifications and Skills:
1. Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program.
2. Strong knowledge of library systems, resources, and research tools, including online databases and library management systems.
3. Demonstrated experience in providing reference and research assistance in an academic library environment.
4. Proficiency in information literacy instruction and familiarity with best practices in teaching and assessment.
5. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders, including students, faculty, and staff.
6. Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, with keen attention to detail and accuracy.
7. Knowledge of emerging trends and technologies in academic librarianship, including open access, digital scholarship, and data management.
8. Familiarity with cataloging and classification standards, such as MARC, AACR2, RDA.
9. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
10. Dedication to professional development and a commitment to staying current with advancements in the field of library and information science.
Note: This job description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the Academic Librarian role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and qualifications required, but rather a representation of the typical tasks and requirements of the position.