Des Moines, IA. Visiting Librarian for Integrated Library Systems, Drake University

Drake University's Cowles Library is seeking to recruit a Visiting Librarian for Integrated Library Systems.  Drake University is a comprehensive, selective university with an innovative curriculum "distinguished by collaborative learning among students, faculty, and staff and by the integration of the liberal arts and sciences with professional preparation."   The Visiting Librarian for Integrated Library Systems will undertake a three-year project in collaboration with the staff of Cowles and Law Libraries to replace or transform the current SirsiDynix Symphony Integrated Library System (ILS).   This individual will be a part of the Technology and Instruction Unit and reports to the Unit Director.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Evaluate, report, and recommend ILS and OPAC solutions that are responsive to the needs of the Drake community and enhance the University’s learning environment.  Create solutions to make the most effective use of the Library’s financial and human resources. Consideration will be given to both open source and proprietary systems

Explore possible sources of collaboration in ILS operation and development with the Drake Law Library, the University’s affinity institutions, and/or other regional academic and public libraries.

Develop a detailed implementation plan covering vendor/software package, timeline, cost estimate, intermediate steps (such as implementation of a “Social OPAC,”) etc.

Work with appropriate Library and University personnel to develop and implement a change and migration process / plan. Collaborate with Library administration in presenting recommendations and program plans to University leadership.

Develop comprehensive training plans, schedules and programmatic support mechanisms needed to assist the Libraries in transitioning to the recommended solutions.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Required:  MLS from an ALA-accredited program, or equivalent degree.  Ability to communicate with technical and non-technical employees and users.  Working knowledge of relevant Web 2.0/social software and other technologies for digital content delivery.  Broad knowledge of integrated library system applications.  Proficiency in or demonstrated ability to rapidly acquire programming language.  Ability to understand and effectively manage complex systems.

Preferred: Recent training and/or experience with open source software and application systems, preferably in the context of developing library access and discovery systems.   Project management skills. Perl and/or PHP programming experience. Experience with one or more proprietary ILS systems.

SALARY/RANK:

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Review of applications will begin January 4th, and continue until an appointment is made.   Applications may be submitted electronically to:  cowles.administration@drake.edu and should include a letter addressing position qualifications, along with a complete vitae, and contact information (including email addresses and phone numbers) for three references to:

Bart Schmidt
Chair, Search Committee
Cowles Library
Drake University
2507 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50311

Drake University is an equal-opportunity employer, and actively seeks applicants who reflect the diversity of the nation. No applicant shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or veteran status.