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Dynamic urban academic library seeks innovative and knowledgeable leader with strong public service orientation and experience with rare book, manuscript, and sound recording collections for the position of Head of Special Collections at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) University Libraries. Position reports to the Assistant Director for Public Services and Special Collections and manages daily operations of the Kenneth J. LaBudde Department of Special Collections, which includes the Marr Sound Archives. In conjunction with the Assistant Director, is responsible for donor relations and strategic planning for the department within the context of the University Libraries’ strategic plan. Set priorities for the collections and its preservation, management and development of staff, and management of digital initiatives. Works closely with faculty, students, scholars and researchers to develop new teaching, learning and research opportunities using the Special Collections as an integral part of the overall library resources and services. Serves as a subject liaison for assigned academic department(s). Successful candidate will have an opportunity to participate in planning for a new expansion of the library and integrated learning center.

 

The Special Collections at UMKC houses the Snyder Collection of Americana, the Suzanne Statland Collection on Holocaust Studies, the Richard W. Bolling Papers, the Truman Library's Student Research File, and a number of other smaller collections. The department also offers marvelous research opportunities in music history, especially American music history and the history of American jazz. The Marr Sound Archives, a unit of the Special Collections Department, holds over 290,000 sound recordings in formats that include LPs, 78s, 45s, cylinders, transcription discs, instantaneous cut discs and open-reel tapes. The focus of the collection is the American experience as reflected in recorded sound. More information about the Special Collections can be found at http://www.umkc.edu/lib/spec-col/index.html.

 

UMKC is a comprehensive research university exemplifying the values of education first, innovation, accountability, diversity, and collaboration. See: (http://www.umkc.edu/aboutumkc/values.asp) In a large area of green space and in Kansas City’s research/cultural corridor, the campus is located in the heart of one of America’s most affordable and attractive cities.

 

Required Qualifications: Must have an ALA-accredited MLS, an additional graduate degree, and a minimum 5 years progressively responsible rare book and manuscript experience and knowledge of digital formats and standards. Must have evidence of successful supervisory experience and the ability to manage a department of eight staff. Must have excellent analytic, problem solving skills; exceptional interpersonal skills; good oral and writing communication skills; a strong commitment to public service. Must show evidence of professional initiative, mature judgment; understanding of scholarly research environment. Must be able to thrive in a team setting, handle multiple responsibilities in a dynamic environment, and operate effectively in a diverse academic community. Potential for professional growth, service activities in keeping with university and library requirements for retention, promotion in non-tenure track appointment is also required.

 

Preferred:Advanced degree in history and/or one of the humanities. Grant-writing experience and donor relations. Experience in the development of digital libraries.

 

Salary: Competitive salary commensurate with education and experience and excellent retirement/benefits package.

 

Send letter of application, resume, names of three references to:

            Bonnie Postlethwaite

            Chair of Special Collections Librarian Search Committee

            University Libraries Administrative Office

            University of Missouri – Kansas City

            5100 Rockhill Road

            Kansas City, MO 64110

            816-235-1531

or submit via e-mail to [log in to unmask].  

 

Application review extended and continues until position is filled.

 

See http://www.umkc.edu/lib/People/jobopenings.htm for additional openings.

 

UMKC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution.