Nordic Studies Librarian

LOCATION:

Reference and Research Services Division

NOTICE OF VACANCY:

March 1, 2006

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

To ensure consideration, applications should be received no later than 5:00 p.m., Friday, April 28, 2006.

THE LIBRARIES:

Among the largest academic research libraries in North America, the University of Washington Libraries has a collection of more than six million cataloged volumes, an equal number in microform format, more than 50,000 serial titles, and several million items in other formats. Students and faculty recognize the value provided by the Libraries and rank the Libraries as the most important source of information for their work. The Libraries also receives the highest satisfaction rating of any academic service on the surveys of graduating seniors conducted by the Office of Educational Assessment. The Libraries was commended in the University’s 2003 accreditation review for its rich collection, well-qualified staff, and “exceptional service to students, staff development, and a commitment to planning and assessment of service.”

THE REFERENCE AND RESEARCH SERVICES DIVISION:

The Nordic Studies Librarian reports to the Head of Reference and Research Services. Located in the Suzzallo/Allen Libraries, the Reference and Research Services Division contains the largest and most comprehensive collection of reference resources for the humanities and social sciences fields within the University of Washington Libraries. The Division is the main reference service point for: Anthropology, Cinema Studies, Classics, Communications, Economics, Education, English Language and Literature, Ethnic Studies, Geography, Germanics, History, Linguistics, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, Romance Languages and Literatures, Scandinavian Studies, Sociology, South Asian Studies, and Women Studies. The Division has been a leader in the development and implementation of digital reference services.

THE POSITION:

The University of Washington Libraries seeks an energetic Nordic Studies Librarian committed to providing a range of services and collections. The Nordic Studies Librarian works with one of the premier departments of Scandinavian Studies in the United States. The Department has come to expect that this librarian will have a high degree of accessibility and visibility, actively disseminating information to students and faculty and collaborating on projects and curriculum initiatives. The Nordic Studies Librarian typically attends faculty meetings and other departmental events, and is available for tours and activities involving visitors to the campus. The Libraries enjoys a strong relationship with the Scandinavian community, and the successful candidate will be expected to sustain this connection. The Nordic Studies Librarian seeks grants as appropriate, manages several endowment funds, and works with donors. The position collaborates and interacts regularly with the Baltic Studies Librarian.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Provides consultation and instruction services to the Department of Scandinavian Studies.

Selects print and electronic resources for the collection.

Creates and maintains web pages to support instruction and research.

Participates in providing general reference service through desk and virtual services.

Participates in the Libraries digital initiatives efforts.

Contributes to the Division's programs and services.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduate degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association or an equivalent graduate library science/information studies degree.

Fluency in at least one of the Scandinavian languages and reading knowledge of the other Scandinavian languages.

Knowledge of resources and contemporary research issues in the field.

Evidence of a desire to continue learning in the area of Scandinavian Studies and Languages.

Ability to work independently and with others in a demanding and rapidly changing environment where consultation, collaboration, and cooperation are essential.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum of two years post MLS (or equivalent degree) professional experience working in a library or library-related position.

Undergraduate or graduate degree in Scandinavian Studies, demonstrating broad knowledge across disciplines and with an emphasis on the culture (e.g., history, political science, literature).

Experience in developing collections and providing instruction in Scandinavian Studies.

Reference experience in an academic library and evidence of planning and providing user education programs.

Demonstrated experience working creatively, collaboratively, and effectively with colleagues, faculty and students.

Knowledge of current and emerging information technology as it contributes to meeting the needs of researchers in the disciplines.

Fluency in at least one of the Baltic languages and reading knowledge of the other Baltic languages.

Demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills; evidence of strong written and oral communication skills.

Evidence of contributions to the profession.

Evidence of initiative and resourcefulness in past activities.

SALARY:

$40,000 minimum. Starting salary commensurate with qualifications and background.

BENEFITS:

Librarians are academic personnel and participate in the University of Washington Retirement Plan (TIAA-CREF, The Vanguard Group, and/or Fidelity Investments) on a matching basis. Vacation is accrued at the rate of 24 working days per year; sick leave at the rate of 12 working days per year. No state or local income tax.

APPLY TO:

Charles E. Chamberlin
Senior Associate Dean
University of Washington Libraries
482 Allen Library
Box 352900
Seattle, Washington 98195-2900

Applicants should submit a letter of application, a full resume, including a work telephone number and e-mail address, salary requirements, and the names, mailing addresses and telephone numbers of at least three references who are knowledgeable of the applicant's qualifications for this position.

University of Washington Libraries Home Page address is:

http://www.lib.washington.edu

The University of Washington, an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, is building a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourages applications from female and minority candidates.

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the University is required to verify and document the citizenship or employment authorization of each new employee.

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