Position Announcement, Auburn University, Dean of Libraries Kerry A Ransel 02 Dec 1996 19:24 UTC
[This message is being posted to several lists; please excuse duplication] Auburn University invites applications and nominations for the position of Dean of Libraries. Reporting to the University Provost, the Dean of Libraries is responsible for the administration of the main library and two branch libraries. Auburn University is seeking an individual with creative problem-solving abilities who can utilize available resources to maximize the potential of Auburn University Libraries as a state-of-the-art, user-centered library ready for the 21st Century. Established in 1856 and later becoming Alabama's 1872 land grant institution, Auburn is the state's largest university (22,000 students) and is a Carnegie II comprehensive university. The University is located in Auburn, Alabama, which is situated between Atlanta, Georgia and Montgomery, Alabama, where residents (80,000 area population) enjoy a variety of cultural, entertainment, and outdoor activities in a superb climate and natural environment. Auburn University Libraries, a member of the Association of Research Libraries, consists of the Ralph Brown Draughon Library, the Cary Veterinary Medical Library, and the Architecture Library. RBD Library, a 377,000 sq. ft. recently expanded structure, houses most of the 2.4 million volumes, 1.5 million government documents, and 19,000 current serials. The Libraries serve as a selective depository for US government publications and a depository for US patents and trademarks. The Libraries utilize considerable electronic resources, including a library-wide CD network and the NOTIS system for local and state catalogs as well as numerous online databases. The Libraries are staffed by 46 tenure track faculty and 89 support staff with a total annual budget of 8.5 million dollars. RESPONSIBILITIES: The Dean provides creative leadership and vision, places a priority on the user interface, promotes new methods of information retrieval and dispersal, is a strong internal and external advocate for the libraries, develops and carries out a strategy for private giving, and encourages professional growth for the library faculty and staff. QUALIFICATIONS: Required: Candidates must have an advanced degree in library science from an ALA-accredited program, substantial administrative experience in an academic environment, and a significant record of research and professional achievement to qualify for academic rank. Candidates should also offer evidence of (1) strong and creative leadership, (2) commitment to quality service, (3) a familiarity with expectations and needs of students, staff and faculty in a large research university, (4) a clear understanding of the evolving role of the academic research library, electronic library technology and scholarly communication, (5) the ability to work collegially and communicate effectively with internal and external constituencies, and (6) a proven ability to secure sponsored funds. Desired: Ph.D. Send letters of nomination or application explaining interest in and qualifications for the position with a curriculum vita, a vision statement for the Auburn Libraries based on the information above, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of five professional references to: Stewart Schneller; Chair, Dean of Libraries Search Committee; Office of the Dean; College of Sciences and Mathematics; Extension Cottage; Auburn University, AL 36849-5319. Nominations and applications from underrepresented groups are encouraged. A competitive salary will be offered and review of the candidates will begin March 1 and continue until the position is filled. An online version of this position announcement with links to additional information can be found on the World Wide Web at URL http://www.lib.auburn.edu/deanad.html Auburn is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.