Systems Librarian/Assistant Professor - Chicago State University

Systems Librarian/Assistant Professor, Chicago State University* Chicago State University’s Gwendolyn Brooks Library seeks an innovative, enthusiastic, and technologically knowledgeable Systems Librarian, a 12-month, tenure-track faculty position. To qualify for tenure, the successful candidate must hold a second master’s degree or have earned a second master’s degree prior to applying for tenure, which typically occurs in January of the candidate’s sixth year. CSU offers master’s degrees in a range of disciplines, and CSU employees are eligible for tuition waiver. Supervised by the Chair of Library and Instruction Services and under the administrative direction of the Dean of Library and Instruction Services, this position will be responsible for managing and supporting Library systems and applications. Additionally, the Systems Librarian will assist with back-end functions for Library applications managed by other librarians and contribute to Library services and projects.

The Gwendolyn Brooks Library has a collection of over 500,000 volumes, eighty percent of which are stored in ROVER, an automated library storage and retrieval system. Electronic resources include over 40,000 ebooks, over 150 databases providing access to thousands of journal and newspaper articles, and microform and audiovisual materials. Located in the South Side of Chicago, Chicago State University is an oasis of green in the big city and the campus is mass transit accessible, with a Metra stop on the edge of campus. It’s also a good place to work. The Gwendolyn Brooks Library is full of natural light and librarians enjoy union representation. As our new Systems Librarian, you would become one of approximately 20 experts in automated storage retrieval systems in the United States.

The candidate will be responsible for the following:

  • Serve as technical lead for Library services platform and Library systems (Alma/Primo VE/Leganto, Automated Storage and Retrieval System and others); maintain currency with relevant technologies.
  • Implement third-party systems and applications to enable efficient workflows and quality services while ensuring security and data integrity.
  • Resolve access and other systems issues by collaborating with campus IT, faculty, and other constituencies as appropriate.
  • Maintain and update Library systems in collaboration with campus IT or other appropriate units.
  • Collaborate with Library departments to facilitate and improve workflows for Library systems.
  • Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and documentation for Library systems, workflows, and processes.
  • Coordinate and deliver systems-related training for Library personnel.
  • Maintain security of Library systems to ensure data integrity.
  • Communicate changes in Library systems functionality to Library faculty and staff in a prompt and effective manner.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications:

  • MLS or equivalent degree from an ALA-accredited institution.
  • Experience working with library systems.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Preferred qualifications:

  • 1+ years of experience working with library systems.
  • Experience with Ex Libris’ Alma, Leganto, or PrimoVE.
  • Experience with authentication systems (e.g., EZproxy, OpenAthens, Shibboleth).
  • Understanding of digital collection management systems and current library technology standards and access services protocols (e.g., Z39.50 or OpenURL).
  • Familiarity with digital repositories such as CONTENTdm.
  • Understanding of library data formats and standards (e.g., MARC, RDA, Dublin Core).
  • Working knowledge of one or more programming languages (e.g., PHP, Ruby, Python, Perl, Java).

Annual salary range is $60,000-$63,000.

To apply, please submit a current CV, a cover letter explaining how you meet the requirements for the position, and a list of at least three professional references (with at least one from a current or former supervisor) at: https://chicagostate.peopleadmin.com/postings/14336.