The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.
The Head of Access Services and Library Technology has primary responsibility for providing leadership, innovation, and management in areas of resource sharing, collection maintenance, and library technology initiatives and applications. Because this position oversees multiple areas fundamental to the successful operation of public-facing services in the Law Library, the incumbent coordinates regularly with the Associate Director. Individually, and as a department head, this position manages, plans, implements, administers, and evaluates key technology-based library systems and services in order to support the research, scholarly, and educational missions and operations of the library and law school (e.g., integration of collaborative collection tools into integrated library systems, collection maintenance). This position represents the law library on university committees and projects and makes recommendations for the allocation, distribution, and implementation of technology resources and initiatives. In order to manage the access services team and functions successfully, knowledge of library systems and procedures to provide access to the collection and assist patrons in the use of library resources and services is necessary. This position actively monitors multiple library functions and technologies aimed at improving and streamlining access to library services to users. Provides legal research instruction to first year law students and on an ad hoc basis as a guest lecturer in upper level courses. This position requires the ability to manage expectations, balance competing tasks, troubleshoot, streamline workflows and procedures to maximize efficiency and the effective allocation of resources based on priorities articulated by senior management. This position must ensure an exceptional level of service to Howard Law faculty, students, and staff – as well as the Howard University community more generally.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Manage circulation services, which includes course reserves, stack maintenance, resource circulation and sharing (e.g., ILL), study rooms, and other student spaces. Recommend and oversee disaster planning for the library. Regularly assess services, collect statistics, and prepare reports for internal and external use. Develop strategies for effective communication about services and procedures with Howard Law community – including opening/closing hours and any unexpected changes. Drafts, communicates, and enforces the department’s policies and procedures.
Hires, supervises, schedules, and trains all Access Services staff and part-time student assistants. Trains and supervises staff.
Provides leadership and vision for library technology initiatives and applications. Further develops and maintains relationship with Information Technology department. Maintains highest level of knowledge of technology applications and best practices in the higher education and library environments. Helps staff troubleshoot technology as well as provide regular training. Responsible for ensuring Law Library is taking full advantage of online capabilities offered by subscription based resources (e.g., law library databases, main campus library databases, university subsidized resources).
Staffs reference desk, supports faculty research, and teaches in required first year legal research curriculum and guest lectures as needed in response to law faculty requests.
Minimum Qualifications
Master’s in Library Science (or equivalent) from an ALA-accredited institution; Juris Doctor (or equivalent) from an ABA-accredited law school preferred. 3-5+ years of relevant experience
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
Ability to work effectively and creatively with an active, diverse, research-oriented faculty, student body, and staff
Commitment to exceptional service to Law Library stakeholders
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to work collaboratively, adapt to and lead direct reports through change
Model positive, solutions-driven responses to challenges
Ability to exercise sound judgment
The ability to establish and maintain effective and collaborative working relationships both inside and outside the Law Library
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Experience drafting, updating, and communicating procedures and policies
Ability to assess services, collect statistics, and prepare reports for internal and external use
Project management skills (e.g., set priorities, manage time, manage expectations, communicate in a clear and efficient manner)
Creativity, flexibility, and willingness to alter instructional approach as needed to accommodate student needs (e.g., learning styles, levels of understanding, cultural norms, familiarity)
Instructional experience
Substantial knowledge of legal databases
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Desire and enthusiasm to excel
Strong service orientation
Familiarity with ILS systems and integration with other resource sharing systems
Knowledge of a wide range of library and information resources and services, including next- generation library systems, legal research platforms, and other relevant technologies
Knowledge of and interest in current and emerging information technologies
Ability to maintain highest level of knowledge of technology applications and best practices in the higher education and library environments
Working Conditions
Exposure to Dust
Other frequent interruptions
Physical Requirements
Bend
Carry
Kneel
Walk
Lift 25 lbs
Push
Reach
Stoop
Stand
Other _ climb stairs
Please note: This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not be construed as a contract for employment.
If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you’ll enjoy your career with us!
