Romance Languages and Literatures Librarian

LOCATION:

Reference and Research Services Division

NOTICE OF VACANCY:

January 3, 2007

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

To ensure consideration, applications should be received no later than 5:00 p.m., Friday, March 2, 2007.

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 Romance Languages and Literatures Librarian reports to the Head of Reference and Research Services. Located in the Suzzallo and 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 Romance Languages and Literatures Librarian committed to providing a range of services and developing the collections. The position provides reference and information services in the Humanities and Social Sciences, with emphasis on research consultation and user education in French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese languages, literatures, and cultures. Responsibilities include developing and managing library services in support of the Division of French and Italian Studies, and the Division of Spanish and Portuguese Studies, and developing the print and electronic collections in those disciplines. French and Italian Studies has the largest number of French majors of any university on the West Coast, as well as one of the fastest growing Italian majors in the United States. The division supports study abroad programs in Paris and Rome. The Division of Spanish and Portuguese Studies sponsors study abroad programs in Cadiz, Spain and Oaxaca, Mexico. The Romance Languages and Literatures Librarian seeks grants as appropriate, manages several endowment funds, and works with donors.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Provides consultation and instruction services to the Division of French and Italian Studies and the Division of Spanish and Portuguese Studies.

Selects print, media, 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 Reference and Research Services 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.

Demonstrated commitment to diversity and understanding of the contributions a diverse workforce brings to the workplace.

Fluency (speaking, reading, writing) in French and Spanish.

Knowledge of resources and contemporary research issues in the field.

Evidence of a desire to continue learning in the areas of Romance languages, literatures, and cultures.

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

PREFERRED 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 French or Spanish languages and literatures, demonstrating broad knowledge across disciplines and with an emphasis on the culture (e.g., history, political science, literature).

Experience in developing collections in one or more of the Romance languages and literatures.

Experience providing library user education to students in Romance languages and literatures.

Reference experience (face to face and virtual) 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.

Ability to read and speak Italian.

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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