Director, Office for Research and Statistics

                            

The American Library Association is seeking an individual for the position of Director, Office for Research and Statistics.  This position provides leadership and expert advice to ALA members and staff and the public on all matters related to research and statistics about libraries and librarians; represents the Association to federal and state agencies on these issues; and initiates projects needed to expand the knowledge base of the field through research and the collection of useful statistics. 

The ORS Director, in line with our mission, provides “leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.”

The Director applies for grant funded research initiatives and provides management of funded projects; provides liaison services with off-site researchers, committees and agencies that collect statistics (e.g. National Center for Education Statistics, Association of Research Libraries); and provides support to several membership units and committees.  Other responsibilities include conducting research for ALA, monitoring research related to libraries and librarians, writing and disseminating information as appropriate.

Qualifications:  PhD and MLS preferred.  Practical understanding of social science research methods in general, especially survey research and descriptive statistics. Record of accomplishment as a researcher, writer and speaker.  In-depth knowledge of libraries, library research and statistics.  Working relationships with NCES, IMLS, ARL desirable.

Proven ability to manage staff and budgets.  Record of accomplishment in conducting quantitative and qualitative research; possesses knowledge of web-based research.  Must be able to work collaboratively with ALA staff, members, library research community, and library statistical agencies.  Ability to communicate with individuals at all levels ranging from research/statistical experts to the lay person.  Competent in designing research that can creatively solve problems in all types of libraries.  Requires travel.

Salary:  Negotiable from $91,000, based on experience.

Closing Date:  September 30, 2011 or until position is filled.

Please use a Word document to apply online at www.ala.org at JobList or click on education & careers; employment; work at ALA to access the job link.