Search | Directories | Reference Tools
UW Home > Discover UW 
Library Positions

Natural Sciences Information Services Librarian

LOCATION:

University of Washington, Natural Sciences Library

NOTICE OF VACANCY:

December 13, 2004

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

To ensure consideration, applications should be received no later than 5:00 p.m., Monday, February 28, 2005

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Among the largest academic research libraries in North America and winner of the 2004 ACRL “Excellence in Academic Libraries Award,” 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. Yet beyond the strength of local collections and networked resources, excellent service programs, knowledgeable staff, diverse facilities and size of budget, the Libraries is known for innovation, responsiveness and an integrated planning and assessment process that makes the user-centered library not just a goal, but a reality. 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 NATURAL SCIENCES LIBRARY

The Natural Sciences Library provides the UW Libraries’ primary collection and information resources for general science, biology (including botany and zoology), earth and atmospheric sciences, forest resources, speech and hearing sciences, and history of science. Located in the large Suzzallo/Allen Libraries Building, its collection exceeds 300,000 volumes plus access to thousands of electronic journals. With over 35 workstations, a reserve operation, and other services, it provides a unique and rich learning environment for students and faculty.

THE POSITION:

The University of Washington Libraries seeks an innovative, user-oriented, dynamic and technically capable librarian for the Natural Sciences Library to provide a range of information services.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Provide scheduled reference service in person, electronically and by telephone.

Design and teach sessions for faculty, staff, and students in the use of UW and Web resources.

Maintain the unit’s website as well as support for the subject pages.

Enhance the library’s ability to offer services digitally that will support top notch research and curriculum.

Serve as a liaison in a natural sciences subject area including consultation, referral, current awareness, instruction, and collection development.

Assist in the planning, developing, and sustaining of collaborative relationships with faculty, students and staff.

Create print and digital tools to assist users in managing information.

Maintain a good understanding of library systems that are used to collect and produce information.

Perform professional responsibilities in teaching, scholarship and service, demonstrating evidence of continuing professional growth.

REQUIRED QUALFICATIONS:

  1. Graduate degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association or an equivalent graduate library science/information studies degree.
  2. Minimum of two years post MLS (or equivalent) professional experience working in a library or library-related position.
  3. Demonstrated reference and instruction experience; strong commitment to user-centered services
  4. Experience with website design and maintenance.
  5. Ability to work independently and with others in a demanding and rapidly changing environment.
  6. Evidence of initiative and resourcefulness in past activities
DESIRED QUALFICATIONS:
  1. Experience with knowledge information and data management software, including EndNote and Excel.
  2. Degree or coursework in a science subject area.
  3. Experience in a science library and/or working with science information resources.
  4. Experience or interest in working with users from diverse backgrounds, interests, and abilities possessing a wide range of educational goals.
  5. Demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills. Evidence of strong written and oral communication skills.
SALARY:

$39,600 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.

Library Positions