THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA LIBRARIES
CURATOR OF SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
DESCRIPTION: The University of Alabama Libraries is seeking a dynamic, experienced leader with broad based skills for the position of Curator of Special Collections in the William Stanley Hoole Special Collections Library. The Hoole Library is a national resource specializing in the unique history and culture of the state of Alabama, including the University of Alabama. The Curator oversees and coordinates the work of two librarians, one professional, and four classified staff, graduate and student assistants, and volunteers who assist users and provide access to and security for the Alabama Collection, rare books, University archives, manuscripts and personal papers, and other resources in a variety of formats. The Curator reports to the Associate Dean of Libraries for Collections and Information Services. As a department head, the Curator is a member of the Libraries Management Council.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide clear vision and strong leadership for the Hoole Special Collections Library, emphasizing personalized user services, dynamic outreach, faithful stewardship, and a cooperative collegial environment. Effectively manage, administer, and supervise daily operations of the Hoole Special Collections Library. Ensure the long-term preservation and care of the collections. Apply emerging computing and communications technologies to provide intellectual access to existing collections for on and off-campus users, with special focus on scholarly researchers and secondary educators. Actively promote the collections and services of the Hoole Special Collections Library to a broader audience, both on campus and beyond. Work with past and potential donors to Hoole Special Collections Library; represent the libraries and the University; and share responsibility for stewardship of gifts. Facilitate effective working relationships and work collaboratively within the University Libraries, across campus, and with outside agencies and organizations. Actively participate in the overall management of the Libraries and also in statewide and national professional organizations.
QUALIFICATIONS: Required: ALA-accredited MLS or Masters of Archival Studies or Certification by the Academy of Certified Archivists. Graduate degree in a discipline related to the Collection's strengths. Knowledge of Southern history. Progressively responsible experience in Archives and Special Collections. Successful supervisory experience with commitment to mentoring, training and staff development. Demonstrated service orientation and strong interpersonal, written and oral communication skills. Ability to work collaboratively with diverse populations. Well- developed management, team- building, and decision-making skills along with initiative, flexibility, and the ability to facilitate change. Knowledge of current trends and technological developments in the archives field.
Preferred: Knowledge of Alabama history. Experience working with volunteers. Academic library experience. Grant writing experience.
The University Libraries maintains membership in the Association of Research Libraries, the Center for Research Libraries, the Coalition for Networked Information, SOLINET, and the Network of Alabama Academic Libraries. A U.S. Government documents regional depository, the Libraries serves Alabama libraries and the public. The Libraries employs the Voyager Integrated Library System and is an active participant in the Alabama Virtual Library. The Libraries? homepage may be accessed at http://www.lib.ua.edu.
SALARY/BENEFITS: 12-month tenure track appointment. Rank and salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Strong benefits including professional development support and tuition fee waiver; substantial moving allowance may be available.
TO APPLY: Send letter of application, resume, and names, addresses, and phone numbers of three references to:
Ms. Voni B. Wyatt, Personnel Officer
The University of Alabama Libraries
Box 870266
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487- 0266
Applications received by October 31, 2000 are assured of receiving consideration.
THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER