Job Description

The Boston University Libraries seek a Head Librarian for Science and Engineering to serve as the engagement lead with BU’s academic programs serving the sciences, engineering, computing and data sciences, health and rehabilitation sciences and other related disciplinary and interdisciplinary research and learning programs across Boston University. Reporting to the University Librarian, Head will oversee the work of four subject librarians to design and deliver excellent, disciplinarily appropriate library services in connection with robust collections supporting the research and learning needs of the community. Through engagement within the colleges and broader research community, the Head supports and directs the work of subject librarians and identifies initiatives in emerging areas of library activity, including advanced support for research data. As a member of the library leadership team, the Head collaborates with peers both in and out of the libraries, participating actively within professional networks and supplying support and mentorship to librarians engaged in related activities.

The Head Librarian for Science and Engineering will:

• Actively engage supported research communities to learn about research needs and identify opportunities for new or expanded collections. Support comprehensive collection coverage through regular review of new materials and engagement with major publishers and vendors in the supported disciplines. Connect across the BU community through outreach to academic leadership in the designated colleges and schools, directing comprehensive resources to the identified needs of the research and learning partners.
• Oversee, support, and inform the collection development and instructional activities of the subject librarians serving the academic research and teaching communities in the sciences and social sciences, engineering, health and rehabilitation sciences, and computing and data sciences. Serve as an active engaged mentor for library staff, supporting professional growth and advancement.
• Provide leadership and direction for the subject librarians and library liaisons serving the sciences and engineering schools and disciplines at BU. Establish policies, programs, and services to advance the BU Libraries priorities and strategic objectives. In collaboration across other academic engagement units in and out of the libraries, develop long-range and short-term plans to implement programs and services as well as to mentor and support the development of liaisons and library staff.
• Collaborate in the broader professional academic library community. Pursue professional development and skills training to meet emerging and ongoing needs from the university community. Actively participate in relevant professional communities, including subject and functionally focused organizations. Participate in working groups, committees, and other service opportunities as a representative of library research services. Collaborate on intramural events with departments or programs.

Required Skills

• Master’s degree in library science, information science, or a related field.
• 5-8 years of experience in libraries or similar setting related to academic research and learning.
• 3 years of management experience.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Additional master’s degree or other advanced degree.

For consideration, please submit a cover letter, CV, and list of professional references. The libraries will begin review of candidate applications on September 13, 2024. This position will remain open until filled.

Working at Boston University Libraries

Boston University Libraries is a learning organization that supports BU librarians, archivists, and information and subject specialists seeking and sharing knowledge, practices, and perspectives that advance library collections services, and their own professional development. In a collaborative, supportive, and engaging work environment, BU Libraries expert staff assist multidisciplinary research and exploration, build distinctive collections and archives of enduring research value, and empower users to thrive amid an ever-changing information environment.

The BU Libraries are at the center of BU’s vibrant academic experience, serving as a community connector, provider of vital research and instructional services for faculty and students, and access point to a wealth of timely scholarly resources. Recognizing this central role the library plays in its robust research and learning agendas, Boston University has made the BU Libraries a focal point of its BU2030 Strategic Plan, investing in core services, innovative programs, and plans for significant renovations of its central branch.

Located in the heart of Boston, the BU Libraries are embedded in numerous vibrant regional and national library and information specialist networks. The BU Libraries are active members within the Boston Library Consortium (BLC), the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), the Northeast Research Libraries Consortium (NERL), HathiTrust, and the Coalition for Networked Information (CNI), and library staff at BU serve as engaged thought-leaders on a wide breadth of library management and service areas across diverse communities.

Boston University, a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), is one of the leading private research and teaching institutions in the world, with three primary campuses in the heart of Boston and programs around the globe. Chartered in 1869, the University is home to more than 33,000 students from more than 130 countries, 375,000 living alumni, 10,000 faculty and staff, and 17 schools and colleges.