University Librarian

Washington and Lee University

University Librarian

Washington and Lee University invites nominations and applications for the position of University Librarian.  Reporting to the Provost, the University Librarian leads the library in support of the intellectual life of the university and plays the critical role of library advocate within and beyond the university community.  The next University Librarian will complete and implement the library’s strategic plan in support of the university’s mission.  Working in partnership with the university’s Chief Technology Officer and in collaboration with the Law Library, the University Librarian will lead the library’s ongoing transformation within an increasingly complex digital environment, and will build upon the continued momentum that has successfully brought together library services, technology, and other university services.  The responsibilities of the University Librarian include overall management of operations, services, and collections for Leyburn Library and the Telford Science Library.  The library has a current budget of $2.45 million, a staff of 9 librarians and 14 administrative/support staff, approximately 726,000 volumes and roughly 12,000 subscriptions.   A 2.5 million dollar renovation of the main floor of Leyburn Library was completed in the winter of 2009.    

Established in 1749, Washington and Lee is the ninth oldest institution of higher learning in the nation.  A private liberal arts university with just under 1800 undergraduates and 400 law students, Washington and Lee is located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley.  Among the nation’s top liberal arts colleges W&L is unique in having accredited programs in business, journalism and accounting, as well as a graduate school of law.   The university has recently launched a 500 million dollar capital campaign in support of a strategic plan that gives high priority to financial aid, faculty and staff compensation, curricular innovation, and the renovation of historic academic buildings. Additional information about the university and its library services can be found at http://www.wlu.edu and http://library.wlu.edu/

Candidates for University Librarian will: i) have earned an advanced degree with preference for an MLS from an ALA accredited institution; ii) demonstrate a record of significant leadership experience in an academic library, especially in areas of planning, budgeting, administration, staff development and team building; iii) possess a thorough understanding of the relationship between libraries and information technologies for higher education, and the background required to provide strong leadership in all areas of modern information delivery services.  Review of applications will begin April 15, 2011.  The ideal candidate would assume duties on July 1, 2011.  Because this search is taking place late in the academic year, consideration will be given to candidates who need flexibility in setting an appropriate starting date.  Nominations and applications (which should include a letter of application, resumé, and names of three references) should be sent electronically or in hard copy to:

Robert A. Strong, Associate Provost

University Librarian Search Committee Chair

Washington Hall 24

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA 24450

strongr@wlu.edu

Washington and Lee University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Women and minority candidates are strongly urged to apply.