Head, Information Services
(Webster Library)
Concordia University Libraries seeks a service-minded and innovative librarian for a tenure-track position with appointment as Head, Information Services (Webster Library).
Concordia University is one of Canada’s most dynamic universities in one of North America’s most livable cities. It reflects a unique blend of commitments to diversity, accessibility, social responsibility, and innovation. With over 40,000 students (3,200 international) and nearly 1,800 full-time and part-time professors, Concordia is recognized for offering a rich academic experience combined with strong community engagement.
Concordia University Libraries serves the lively university community from two campus libraries, the Georges Vanier Library at the Loyola campus and the R. Howard Webster Library at the downtown campus, with a team of over 30 professional librarians. Its services are founded upon the university’s strategic framework and academic plan. For more information about the services and operations of the Libraries, see http://library.concordia.ca/.
The Head, Information Services is a supervisory librarian and part of the Library Management Team. Under the direction of the Director, Webster Library, the incumbent provides leadership in information services, taking responsibility for management of the Webster Library’s Information Services support staff unit, and assisting in the general organization and management of the different library study spaces. Responsibilities will extend also to the satellite study facility in the historic Grey Nuns site, opening Fall 2014.
The successful candidate will receive a probationary tenure-track position at Concordia University, along with a 3-year supervisory appointment to the role of Head, Information Services. The 3-year supervisory appointment is renewable. Upon successful completion of probation, the incumbent continues to hold a librarian position at Concordia University, whether or not the supervisory appointment is renewed.
Librarians are members of the Concordia University Faculty Association (CUFA). Responsibilities include research, publication and service to meet requirements for tenure and promotion.
Primary Tasks
Ensures a high level of appropriate information services reflecting best practices are provided to library users.
Is responsible for the supervision, motivation, training, development and performance evaluations of support staff in Information Services.
Conducts workflow and procedure analysis to assess and improve current practices. Develops, maintains and improves procedures and protocols to improve library users’ experience.
Develops and implements tools and measures to assess the quality of Concordia Libraries’ Information Services.
Ensures that the organization, management and skill levels of staff evolve to meet new challenges and users’ needs. Implements staff training. Recommends new hires.
Is responsible for work schedules preparation following established procedure. Ensures the scheduling of all personnel participating in the Reference & Information services, at the desk and online.
Advises on all decisions related to the improvement of services and staff development.
Assists the Director, Webster Library with the general organization and management of the different library study spaces. Makes recommendations on the staffing, layout, furnishings and equipment in the unit and the library study spaces.
Recommends capital and operating budget expenditures required for the operation of the unit. Recommends equipment acquisitions, improvements and changes.
Participates in University and external committees and engages in professional organizations for the development of the profession.
May be responsible for collection development and liaison activities in an assigned subject area.
Qualifications
Graduate degree from a library school accredited by the American Library Association, or approved equivalent education and training acceptable for membership in the Corporation of Professional Librarians of Québec.
Professional experience in an academic library or equivalent.
Two years of management and supervisory experience; this may include experience in supervision of staff, management of projects, leadership of working groups, staff training or other experience which demonstrates the capacity for managing programs and resources.
The ability to plan, organize, and coordinate operations and services. Ability to motivate and engage staff.
Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills, flexibility, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a rapidly changing environment.
Initiative and strong leadership skills, with willingness to share expertise, work in teams and negotiate solutions with diverse groups.
Familiarity with trends in academic library reference and information services and emerging library and public service practices and technologies.
Ability to communicate effectively and to encourage a positive and productive working environment for staff.
Aptitude for service-oriented work, excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with the public.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and tasks.
Ability to prepare and present written and oral reports/recommendations.
Oral and written fluency in English. Oral fluency in French and basic written French are assets.
Salary and Benefits
Salary and rank are commensurate with experience. The position includes an administrative stipend, as well as a competitive and comprehensive benefit package.
Appointment will commence June 1st, 2014, or at a later date to be negotiated.
Concordia University is committed to employment equity.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates must supply:
a letter of interest, which includes a statement of your citizenship;
curriculum vitae;
the names, email addresses and telephone numbers of three professional references.
All qualified candidates will be considered. Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.
Candidates should apply in confidence by email to Ms. Natalie Kaloust, Library Personnel Coordinator at lib-admin@concordia.ca
Applications must be received by no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 24th, 2014.
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