Wednesday, June 02, 2010

Public Services Librarian, Union Theological Seminary, Columbia University

Position Title: Public Services Librarian (full-time)
The Burke Library at the Union Theological Seminary (Columbia University): New York, New York

Introduction:
The Burke Library, one of the largest theological libraries in the world, contains rich collections for theological study and research. With holdings of over 700,000 items, the Library is recognized as one of the premier libraries in its field, and includes extensive holdings of unique and special materials. The mission of The Burke Library is to identify, acquire, organize, provide access to, interpret, and preserve information in the field of theology and contextually related areas of study. The Library supports the specific instructional and research needs of Columbia University and the Union Theological Seminary, providing resources for the broader scholarly community in theology and related disciplines. To learn more about the Burke Library at the Union Theological Seminary (Columbia University), please visit http://www.columbia.edu/cu/lweb/indiv/burke/index.html.

Position Summary:
The Burke Library at the Union Theological Seminary (Columbia University) seeks an experienced professional to serve as the Public Services Librarian. Reporting to the Director, the incumbent will creatively develop, coordinate, and promote unmediated and mediated access to the Burke Library and its collections for Columbia, Union Theological Seminary, as well as the broader community. Additionally, the incumbent will exercise direct responsibility for providing instructional and research support for the Library’s collections and information resources, and supervise two library support staff and a number of student assistants.

The responsibilities of this position include developing and executing in-person, print, and online information literacy instruction and other library educational programs (library orientations, workshops, credit bearing courses, in-class sessions, online guides, lectures, and other community outreach programs). Furthermore, the Public Services Librarian serves as the coordinator of library access services and student assistant staffing (Circulation, Reserves, ILL, Document Delivery, and Reader Services), with collaborative provision of reference and research services. Additional management of the circulating and reference collections is also necessary. The incumbent is also responsible for the preparation and promotion of exhibitions of special collections materials.

Required Qualifications:
MLIS from ALA accredited school and 2-3 years related experience (or an equivalent of education and experience). Strong organizational skills, excellent oral and written communication skills, commitment to public services and to theological education, ability to work collaboratively with other staff in inter-departmental projects, and supervisory skills

Preferred Qualifications:
Specialized knowledge in Biblical Studies or Church History; technical proficiency and interest in new technologies for teaching, learning, and content provision; teaching proficiency and experience; foreign language expertise; graduate degree in Theology/Religion.

Salary and Benefits:
One of the world's leading research universities, Columbia provides outstanding opportunities to work and grow in a unique intellectual community. Set in the Morningside Heights academic village, Columbia also presents the unmatched dynamism, diversity and cultural richness of New York City. The University Libraries, grounded in collections of remarkable depth and breadth, are also building extensive electronic resources and services. The Libraries at Columbia are committed to collegiality, professionalism, innovation and leadership. We offer a salary commensurate with qualifications and experience and excellent benefits including 100% Columbia tuition exemption for self and family and assistance with University housing. Columbia will also pay 50% tuition for your dependent child who is a candidate for an undergraduate degree at another accredited college or university.

Application Information: To submit an application, please visit academicjobs.columbia.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=53236 .
Priority consideration will be given to applicants who apply by June 11, 2010.