The Duke University Libraries (DUL) seek an experienced, forward-thinking, and creative professional to develop an integrated approach to technical services operations as Duke transitions to the Open Library Environment (OLE) open-source,
community-based library management system. This position represents a key opportunity to provide leadership in rethinking and realigning workflows for acquiring and managing electronic resources and other formats of library materials to enhance their accessibility
for the Duke University community. Reporting to the Associate University Librarian for Collections and User Services, the position will oversee the operational management of DUL staff engaged in technical services activities, including acquisitions, receiving,
cataloging, e-resource management, and metadata creation. This position is responsible for the overall administration and coordination of work and for establishing and implementing technical services policies, standards and procedures.
The Head of Technical Services plans, establishes policies, and provides leadership, vision, and strategic direction for the Technical Services operations of the Duke University Libraries. This position is responsible
for the overall administration and coordination of technical services activities, including acquisitions, receiving, cataloging, e-resource management, and metadata creation. The position ensures the efficiency and effectiveness of technical services operations
and workflows and works closely and collaboratively with the Head of the Rubenstein Library Technical Services department.
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Provides vision and strategic directions for technical services functions across the Library. Aligns operations and workflows with strategic directions and secures support from key constituents and stakeholders.
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Supervises the heads of the current Technical Services Departments—Acquisitions, Cataloging & Metadata Services, and Electronic Resources & Serials Management. With them oversees all activities relating to the ordering, receiving,
description, management, and processing of library materials.
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Leads the planning process within Technical Services; coordinates the work-flow between sections and departments as well as between Technical Services and other library departments; oversees the process of evaluating and improving
workflow efficiency.
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Ensures regular reviews of best practices; undertakes continuous improvement of stakeholder-focused services and technical services practices. Formulates and recommends to the AUL for Collections and User Services policies for
the administration of technical services activities.
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Ensures high quality, productivity, and adherence to standards for acquisitions, resource access, and descriptive frameworks for all formats. Coordinates the on-going identification and implementation of opportunities to improve
service to stakeholder groups and increase efficiency within all Technical Services areas.
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In collaboration with Technical Services department heads, prepares and monitors budgets; allocates and is accountable for the use of resources (staff, space, etc.) available for technical services operations.
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Promotes and facilitates the coordination of technical services across the campus libraries.
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Participates in the selection and recruitment of staff for Technical Services. Manages workforce planning and performance management reviews, assessing and recommending training and learning opportunities.
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Participates in leadership for and administration of the Library's integrated library system.
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Participates in or contributes to the ongoing evolution of the Libraries’ services
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Displays continuing growth in professional and subject knowledge and takes an active interest in the profession. Growth and interest should be demonstrated through continuing development
of professional knowledge and abilities, membership and participation in professional organizations, and service to the library, University, or community in a professional capacity.
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Participates in development and fund raising efforts as appropriate.
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Performs other tasks as assigned by the library administration.
Supervisory Responsibilities
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Directly supervises technical services department heads and admin. asst. (4.0 FTE)
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Indirectly supervises all other technical services staff (45 FTE)
It is the expectation that all Duke University Libraries staff members will demonstrate exceptional workplace behaviors in the execution of their specific position responsibilities. These behaviors
are customer focus, collaboration, creative problem solving, continuous learning and a commitment to diversity. In addition, managers and supervisors are expected to help develop a common vision by providing clear direction and priorities, clarifying roles
and responsibilities, and promoting mutual understanding through effective communication. They are also expected to take the time to effectively plan and evaluate performance, provide feedback, recognition and coaching, and develop employees to achieve their
personal and organizational goals.
Education
Required: Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited program or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Preferred: Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited program
Experience
Required: At least five years of professional experience as a supervisor or manager of technical services operations in a research library. Knowledge of recent developments and emerging trends in technical services and academic
research libraries in North America, including familiarity with current generation library management systems and with the use of linked data by libraries. Significant experience in one or more areas of technical services (acquisitions and licensing, cataloging,
e-resource management, metadata creation), broad knowledge of other technical services areas, and solid understanding of the role of Information Technology Services in supporting technical services operations. Strong supervisory and management skills; demonstrated
leadership in developing positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders and in creating a productive and innovative work environment. Effective project-management, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Excellent oral and written communication
skills. Demonstrated success in developing and implementing strategic priorities, preferably within a large academic research library.
Preferred: Experience with more than one integrated library management system and with data migration between systems. Familiarity with OLE (Open Library Environment). Experience with technical services operations that support
international collections.
These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the employee in this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required
of a person in this position.
Salary and Benefits
Salary and rank dependent on qualifications and experience. Comprehensive benefits package includes 20 days vacation, 13 holidays, 12 days sick leave; health, dental, disability and life insurance and support for professional development
and training.
Environment
Since its founding in 1924, Duke University has grown into one of the most prestigious private universities in the world and its medical center ranks annually among the top in the nation. The Duke University Libraries are the shared center
of the university's intellectual life, connecting people and ideas. The Libraries consist of the William R. Perkins Library and its branches: Rubenstein Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Lilly, Music, and the library at the Duke Marine Laboratory in Beaufort.
Duke’s library holdings of 6.1 million volumes are among the largest of private universities in the United States.
Duke's hometown is Durham, North Carolina, a city with vibrant research, medical and arts communities, and numerous shops, restaurants and theaters. Durham is located in the Research Triangle, a growing metropolitan area of more than one
million people that provides a wide range of cultural, recreational and educational opportunities. The Triangle is conveniently located just a few hours from the mountains and the coast, offers a moderate climate, and has been ranked among the best places
to live and to do business.
Duke offers a comprehensive benefit packages which includes both traditional benefits such as health insurance, leave time and retirement, as well as wide ranging work/life and cultural benefits. Details can be found at:
http://www.hr.duke.edu/benefits/index.php
Application
Cover letter, detailed resume and the names, addresses (mailing and e-mail), and telephone numbers of three references should be submitted to:
https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/6436.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
Applications which are missing any of the components listed above will not be reviewed.
Duke University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual’s age, color, disability, genetic information, gender, gender
identity, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status. The Duke University Libraries have a strong commitment to Affirmative Action and is actively seeking to increase the racial and ethnic diversity of our staff.
Virginia Bacon
Electronic Resources Acquisitions Coordinator
Duke University Libraries
Durham, NC
919-660-6949
virginia.bacon@duke.edu