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Dean of Library Services

Carson-Newman University is a Christian, liberal arts-based University built upon the Lordship of Jesus Christ as evidenced historically and revealed in the Scriptures. 

Job Title: Dean of Library Services

Department: Library

Reports To: Provost

Location: On-site

FLSA Status: Exempt

Time Requirements: 11-month contract

Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervises Library Employees  

Summary Description: . The Dean, who will hold faculty rank, is responsible for coordinating and supervising library services, as well as selecting and acquiring new and retrospective materials in various formats in order to build strong collections in support of the curriculum. This Dean is also charged with supervising the annual allocation of the library materials budgets, providing access to information through databases and electronic delivery systems, and maintaining awareness of emerging technologies in library systems and service

Essential Functions: 

  • As an intentionally Christian academic community, Christian employees are hired to advance the mission of Carson-Newman as expressed in our strategic plan, Acorns to Oaks.
  • Supports the research and informational needs of traditional and online programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and the College of Professional Studies
  • Fosters a welcoming environment for students, faculty, staff, and the greater community
  • Provides leadership for all functions of the library in collaboration with other academic departments, faculty, staff, and students
  • Oversees the library’s campus presence through programming, displays, events, and outreach
  • Provides vision for the library’s long-term goals and projects
  • Collaborates with faculty in the assessment and development of the library’s various collections, including open educational resources
  • Advocates for the library to university administration
  • Serves the library by maintaining partnerships with building and campus stakeholders and by acting as steward of the library’s facilities
  • Supervises library faculty and staff
  • Serves on Academic Council, Graduate Programs and Standards Committee, and other relevant university committees and task forces
  • Maintains membership in and serves on statewide, regional, and/or national professional organizations
  • Responsible for completing reports and assessments relating to the library, its services, and accreditation compliance
  • Responsible for managing library budget
  • Works with university Advancement for funding opportunities
  • Remains current in knowledge of best practices in academic libraries
  • Willingness to work weekends and evenings

Education:  A master’s degree in library science, information science, or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program

Experience:   Five years’ experience in an academic library setting, including at least 3 years of leadership experience

Required Skills:  ● Sound professional judgment, flexibility, and willingness to learn and implement new technologies ● Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills ● Demonstrated ability to work well with others in a team environment ● Supports a culture of collegiality and collaboration ● Ability to multitask and balance multiple responsibilities in an environment with interruptions and shifting priorities ● Commitment to personal and staff professional development ● Strong problem solving skills ● Proficiency with relevant technology program 

Physical Demands:  The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to use a computer for long periods of time

General Information:  This description is designed to describe the general nature of the job and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, and duties. It is the responsibility of the supervisor for this position to formally outline in writing any performance expectations including specific duties for which the employee assigned to this position will be held accountable in terms of performance evaluation.

Employee Expectations:  The University expects all employees to conduct themselves in a manner that is appropriate for a Christian institution and to be worthy examples in moral conduct and behavior for the students of the University and fellow employees.