The University of Toledo, Dean, University Libraries
Monday, February 13, 2017 12:00 AM

Title: The University of Toledo, Dean, University Libraries

Location: Toledo, OH

Department: Libraries

Description of Institution and Library

Founded in 1872, The University of Toledo (UT) (www.utoledo.edu) is one of 14 public universities in Ohio. UT currently has an enrollment of approximately 20,600 students (16,200 undergraduate and 4,400 graduate). The University is comprised of 13 academic colleges and an academic medical center. UT's 255-acre main campus is adjacent to one of Toledo's finest residential neighborhoods, providing a suburban atmosphere while allowing access to cultural and entertainment venues in Toledo. The campus, featuring its iconic bell tower, is frequently recognized for its beauty. The University's professional health care programs and medical center are located at its Health Science Campus. Specialized programs and activities are located at the University's other four campuses: Scott Park Campus, Center for the Visual Arts at the Toledo Museum of Art, Lake Erie Center and Stranahan Arboretum.

The mission of The University of Toledo is to improve the human condition; to advance knowledge through excellence in learning, discovery and engagement; and to serve as a diverse, student- centered public metropolitan research university. The University of Toledo aims to be a transformative force for the world. The University is proud to offer more than 120 undergraduate majors and more than 150 professional and graduate programs, offering students a wide array of career paths and specialization. Many of its programs are nationally ranked.

Overview

A unique opportunity for a forward-thinking, collaborative Dean to lead the University of Toledo Libraries consisting of: Carlson Library, Mulford Health Science Library, McMaster Engineering Library, Canaday Center for Special Collections. The position also works closely with the University's LaValley Law Library. The University of Toledo is both globally engaged and a founding member of OhioLINK. Carlson Library has just undergone $3+ million renovations with an additional $3 million set to begin in the spring. The libraries have become state-of-the-art facilities, highly utilized by students and faculty for studying, research, collaboration, and academic and art exhibits. 

The Dean serves as the chief academic and administrative officer for the University Libraries, oversees the University of Toledo Press, and reports directly to the Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. 

The successful candidate is a visionary leader and prominent advocate who understands and provides the strategic direction necessary to meet the evolving needs of libraries within an urban research public university setting.

Library Vision and Mission

  • Establish a shared vision that promotes the University's and the University Libraries' missions
  • Implement a clear and concise strategic plan to advance that vision
  • Communicate internally and externally regarding the University Libraries
  • Provide energetic leadership in integrating new and emerging technologies with traditional library resources and services
  • Support faculty and students with resources and services which support research and academic advancement
  • Seek ways to promote the library as a center for student learning

Library Administration, Collaboration, and Development

  • Serve as the chief administrative and fiscal officer of the University Libraries
  • Foster faculty engagement and development as part of UT's goal to attract and retain faculty
  • Shape library and university policies and regulations in collaboration with other deans
  • Create an environment which supports professional advancement of library personnel
  • Develop strong relationships with the Provost, administrators of other units, as well as students, faculty, staff, and community
  • Collaborate with university stakeholders to assist with development of new programs and resources related to library academic services
  • Work closely with the Office of Advancement to identify and cultivate external relations related to opportunities to enhance the university libraries' collections and facilities.
  • Lead the executive board of the Friends of the Library, an organization that provides resources to enhance the Libraries' collections and to encourage gifts, endowments and bequests

Required Qualifications and Experience

  • Masters in library science degree from an American Library Association-accredited program or equivalent, or a terminal degree in a related discipline
  • Credentials to qualify for tenure as a full professor in the University Libraries
  • At least three years of experience in university library administration
  • Knowledgeable about higher education policies and shared governance
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with faculty and academic leaders
  • Ability to identify traditional and evolving technologies in research, teaching, and service and enhance library services to support faculty, staff, and students accordingly
  • A record that shows meaningful commitment to inclusiveness, diversity, and shared governance

Desired Qualifications

  • An earned doctorate degree
  • Experience in strategic planning
  • Exemplary problem-solving skills; able to identify problems and implement solutions
  • Commitment to professional and traditional education and scholarship; with the ability to respond to changing needs of disciplines within the university
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills
  • Administrative experience in a shared governance environment

How to apply
Please visit the full job description for application details.