Director of Library Services

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Job description

Muskingum University invites applications for the position of Director of Library Services. The Director of Library Services provides steady, collaborative leadership for the university library during a period of innovation. In a private, comprehensive university setting, the Director ensures continuity of services while shaping a shared vision for the library of the future – one that effectively serves undergraduate, graduate, adult, online, hybrid, and in-person learners. The Director coordinates efforts, represents the library in academic planning, and helps position the library as a flexible academic hub aligned with institutional mission, student success, and sustainability.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Continuity and Stabilization

  • Ensure uninterrupted delivery of library services across all learning modalities.
  • Maintain operational stability while supporting initiatives already underway.
  • Serve as a visible and accessible leader for library staff, faculty, and students.

Academic Partnership and Governance

  • Represent the library in academic affairs meetings and committees.
  • Collaborate with faculty and directors to support teaching, curriculum development, and accreditation.
  • Partner with campus offices and the community to offer professional development opportunities in areas of known need and interest.

Coordination of Library Programs and Personnel

  • Provide leadership and coordination for professional librarians and staff.
  • Support the Al and Technology Librarian in advancing responsible Al and digital tool use.
  • Support the Library Services Manager in research support, collection management, and service delivery.

Strategic Vision and Future-Oriented Planning

  • Contribute to the development of a shared vision for the future of the university library to identify emerging needs related to learning modalities, technology, research practices, and student support.
  • Help articulate the library’s evolving role as a physical and virtual learning hub, a partner in teaching and curriculum design, a center for research and Al literacy, and an inclusive space for learners at different stages of life and study.
  • Document insights, recommendations, and promising practices to inform long-term planning and support transition to permanent leadership.

Resource Stewardship

  • Oversee the library budget and ensure responsible use of resources.
  • Manage collections, licensing, and consortial relationships, including OhioLINK.
  • Identify near-term efficiencies that support institutional sustainability.

Assessment and Communication

  • Support assessment and reporting related to library impact and student learning.
  • Communicate regularly with academic leadership regarding priorities and needs.
  • Document key processes and decisions to support leadership transition.

The above statements reflect the general duties and responsibilities necessary to describe the major functions of the position and should not be considered a complete description of the essential functions of the position. This Job Description is not intended to be all inclusive. The employee will be assigned by the immediate supervisor to perform other duties as needed or to perform other related duties, including special projects.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program or equivalent.
  • Experience in an academic library or higher education setting.
  • Familiarity with the needs of adult, online, and hybrid learners.
  • Strong collaborative, organizational, and communication skills.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Experience in a comprehensive private or mission-driven institution.
  • Experience with accreditation, assessment, and Al-supported services.

How to apply

Application must include a cover letter describing the candidate’s experience in relation to the stated job responsibilities, a resume, and a list of 3 professional references and should be sent to [email protected]. Please include the position title in the subject line of your email. This position will remain open until filled, with review of candidates to begin immediately.

Muskingum University actively seeks out and welcomes administrators and staff who are committed to excellence in student learning, consider the engagement of diverse communities in the University’s educational programs and activities, and are committed to full inclusivity at the University. As an equal opportunity employer, Muskingum welcomes applications from individuals from populations, which have been historically underrepresented in higher education and/or have experience working with students from diverse backgrounds.

Muskingum University does not discriminate in its employment or educational programs or activities. Please visit https://www.muskingum.edu/non–discrimination–statement to review the university’s official non-discrimination statement.