Head of Arts and Archives

The Ohio University Libraries invites applications and nominations for the position of Head of Arts & Archives. This new position plays an important role in building upon recent achievements and the distinctive collections of the Libraries, including a recent NHPRC basic processing grant for University Archives and manuscripts backlogs, the acquisition and release on ArtSTOR of the Yao Cultural Artifacts Collection, significant collaborations with campus units on the digitization and preservation of University Archives materials, and an upcoming Lincoln Center/NYPL exhibit featuring the Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis Dance Collection. We seek an innovative candidate comfortable implementing change; eager to engage stakeholders in a dynamic, fast-paced environment; and committed to working effectively with students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds.

Responsibilities
The Head of Arts & Archives provides leadership and direction for a new department consisting of the Fine Arts Library, the Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections and the Music/Dance Library. Specifically, the department head promotes and advances collection prominence; fosters and develops relationships with units on campus to further integrate art and archival collections and services into research and the curriculum; serves as a mentor and supervisor for professionals in the department; coordinates, promotes and sustains collaborations between departmental units and with other units in the libraries such as digital initiatives, technical services, and the Center for International Collections; participates in grant-writing, fundraising initiatives and donor relations to further the goals of the department and libraries; establishes improvement goals for departmental units in conjunction with the libraries’ strategic initiatives; and serves as the subject librarian for one or more areas related to the arts. Reports to the Assistant Dean for Research and Education Services.

Qualifications
Required
• A master’s degree from an ALA accredited institution or a master’s degree in history (or other relevant subject) with formal coursework or training in archival management and theory
• At least 3 years professional work experience in an academic library
• Demonstrated success leading, promoting teamwork, and fostering collaborative relationships
• Experience supervising professional librarians or archivists
• Experience managing multiple, simultaneous projects
• Experience with reference, instruction and collection development in an academic library
• Experience with archival collections
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Knowledge of current and emerging trends in academic libraries and special collections, including digital archival collections

Preferred
• Experience with collections in the arts
• Undergraduate degree in the arts
• Experience with institutional archives
• Experience writing and administering grants
• Knowledge of records management and university archives processes

Ohio University Libraries is a member of the Association of Research Libraries, the Center for Research Libraries, and OhioLINK. The Frederick & Kazuko Harris Fine Arts Library includes resources for the study of all aspects of the visual arts, with particular strength in photography and the history of photography and is home to the Yao Collection, a unique collection of North Vietnamese cultural art and artifacts. The Robert E. and Jean R. Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections is the principle repository for three areas – University Archives, Manuscript Collections, and Rare Books and Special Collections. The collections of the Mahn Center document the life, culture and development of the first higher education institution in the Northwest Territory, nearly two centuries of the peoples of southeastern Appalachian Ohio, and nationally significant scholars, artists and leaders. The Music/Dance Library is a full-service branch library located in Glidden Hall, home of the School of Music. More information about Ohio University Libraries can be found at http://www.library.ohiou.edu/.

Established in 1804, Ohio University is a comprehensive, state-assisted institution classified by the Carnegie Foundation as a Research University (high research activity). It is located in Athens, a scenic, culturally rich community 75 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio. With 20,000 students enrolled on the Athens campus and over 8,000 students on five regional campuses, the university offers a diverse, dynamic and collegial atmosphere to its students, faculty and staff.

Salary & Benefits
Salary is commensurate with experience and education. Ohio University employees enjoy a liberal benefits package, including 22 days annual vacation, generous insurance, and Ohio state employee or alternative retirement.

Review of applications begins July 19. However, applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is identified. Position available September 1, 2010.

Please apply online at http://www.ohiouniversityjobs.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=56804.

Ohio University is committed to the diversity of faculty, staff and students. Applicants who will enrich the diversity of our campus are especially encouraged to apply.