Head Special Collections and University Archives

About This Role

Lead the Robert S. Cox Special Collections and University Archives Research Center of the UMass Amherst Libraries, providing strategic direction, managing a team, and ensuring the acquisition, preservation, and access to unique collections. This role focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion within SCUA operations.

Responsibilities

• Exercise full supervision over a team of professional and classified staff members, part-time staff, and student assistants in the Special Collections and University Archives Department
• Acquire, develop, manage, and preserve unique and distinctive collections, both physical and digital, including manuscripts, University records, and rare books
• Develop policies and procedures for the acquisition, arrangement, and description of collections to ensure access
• Provide leadership and strategic direction for SCUA’s development activities in collaboration with the Dean of Libraries
• Pursue grants and other funding opportunities to further SCUA’s mission
• Maintain a regular and convenient service schedule for public access, in-person and online, to the collections
• Plan, coordinate, and direct staff activities and workflows in the Special Collections and University Archives Department
• Provide oversight for the University records management program
• Oversee staff managing distinctive collections, research services, instruction, and digital technologies
• Facilitate collaborative working relationships within the Libraries, across campus, with consortial partners, and with outside groups
• Actively promote the use of SCUA’s collections to the University community and to a national and international audience
• Organize and participate in colloquia, seminars, exhibits, and other public events to promote SCUA and its collections

Requirements

• Master's degree in library science from an ALA-accredited program
• 8-12 years of increasing responsibility working with special collections (rare books, archives, records management, manuscripts)
• Training in areas such as archives, manuscripts, rare books, and/or special collections librarianship
• Record of successful management experience
• Demonstrated commitment to staff development and fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace
• Proven record of accomplishment in collection development and donor relations
• Experience in planning, organizing, and supervising the work of others and in project management
• Strong commitment to public service
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse population
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Strong written and oral communication skills and ability to communicate clearly in presentations

Qualifications

• Master's degree in library science from an American Library Association-accredited library and information studies program
• 8-12 years of increasing responsibility working with special collections, such as rare books, archives, records management, and manuscripts.

Nice to Have

• Advanced degree in a relevant field
• Successful grant writing experience
• Experience implementing digital technology and tools related to special collections
• Ability to articulate a clear vision for the role of special collections and university archives