Society of Southwest Archivists

Director of Special Collections, University of Oklahoma Libraries

  • 17 Mar 2017 8:29 AM
    Message # 4673125

    Librarian III, Director of Special Collections

    University of Oklahoma Libraries

    The OU Libraries seeks a dynamic, innovative, collaborative and highly motivated individual to provide leadership and strategic vision for its Special Collections, comprised of manuscripts, rare books, maps, photographs, art, artifacts, and audio, video, and digital collections.  The successful candidate will be knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the changing nature of today’s research libraries and the implications for special collections.  The position reports to the Dean of Libraries, works closely with the Libraries’ Chief Technology Officer on special collections digital initiatives, and serves as a member of the Libraries’ senior leadership team.


    The position’s primary responsibilities include articulating a compelling vision for the value of physical and digital special collections and archives; enhancing the discoverability, accessibility, and preservation of unique collections; creating extraordinary user experiences; developing and pursuing external funding, including donations, in-kind gifts and grant funding; setting strategic directions and priorities; promoting special collections through a variety of channels, including formal presentations, special events, exhibits, written communications and interpersonal relationships; enhancing and expanding institutional and scholarly collaborations with tribal, regional, national, and international partners; building and stewarding donor relations; and planning for facilities enhancements.


    Required Qualifications:  Master’s degree in Library/Information Science/Archival Sciences from an ALA-accredited program or another appropriate field; 24 months of management and/or supervisory experience in a special collections and/or archival setting; ability to present a coherent vision and work in a changing environment; demonstrated management experience; experience applying new/emerging technologies to digital scholarship initiatives; proven effectiveness working with and communicating complex issues and perspectives to a wide range of constituencies; excellent communication, organizational, time and project management skills; and thorough knowledge of professional theory and best practices in managing, collecting, organizing and preserving special collections and archives.  Background check, including official educational transcripts, required.


    Salary and title commensurate with experience.  Full-time position; excellent benefits and professional development support.  To apply, go to https://jobs.ou.edu and search job #170761.  For application process and full position description including required and preferred qualifications, go to https://libraries.ou.edu/jobs.


    The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to: admissions, employment, financial aid and educational services. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to: Bobby J. Mason, University Equal Opportunity Officer and Title IX Coordinator, (405) 325-3546, bjm@ou.edu, or visit www.ou.edu/eoo.


© Society of Southwest Archivists


Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software