Sender: Rare book and manuscripts <EXLIBRIS-L@LISTSERV.INDIANA.EDU>
Head of Special Collections (Librarian 4)
Bridwell Library, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist
University, Dallas, Texas
Introduction:
The Bridwell Library invites applications for the newly created
position, Head of Special Collections. Bridwell Library of the Perkins
School of Theology is Southern Methodist University's primary resource
for research collections in the fields of religion and theology. The
library is well known for its remarkable rare book and manuscript
collections, outstanding exhibitions and award-winning exhibition
catalogs.
Included in the library's special collections, dating from the sixth to
the twenty-first century, are over 50,000 rare books and manuscripts and
nearly 2,400 linear feet of archives. Particular strengths lie in the
fields of theology, church history, scripture, philosophy, history,
typography, graphic arts, and literature. Among its holdings are
distinctive collections of early and fine printing (including over 1,000
incunabula), significant editions of the Bible, reformation literature,
Wesleyana and Methodistica and devotional literature. For more
information about Bridwell Library and its collections visit
http://www.smu.edu/bridwell/.
Position Summary:
This position reports to the Director of Bridwell Library and provides
direction for all aspects of special collections including acquisition,
cataloging, conservation, preservation, and promotion of the
collections.
Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
* Effectively manage the department by establishing, implementing
and assessing goals, priorities, policies and procedures;
* Provide leadership for, mentor and evaluate staff;
* Guide departmental collecting priorities in consultation with
the library director;
* Assume primary responsibility for selection, acquisition,
cataloging and research services for one or more distinct collecting
areas;
* Chair the Exhibitions Committee and have oversight for
exhibition planning and publications;
* Collaborate with other library staff on planning public
programs;
* Have oversight for protecting and preserving the library's
special collections through systematic and appropriate conservation and
preservation techniques;
* Engage in strategic planning for the department in concert with
the overall goals of the library;
* Participate in donor outreach efforts.
Qualifications:
Masters degree from an ALA-accredited program in library/information
science or an advanced degree in an academic field related to Bridwell
Library holdings (for example: religion, theology, history, philosophy,
etc.). A Ph.D. in an academic field related to the library's special
collections is preferred.
A minimum of five years work experience including three or more years of
professional experience within rare books, manuscripts or special
collections departments, is required. Experience in an academic or
research library or equivalent setting is preferred. Previous
supervisory experience is required.
Candidates must possess knowledge of the antiquarian book and manuscript
market. Must possess knowledge of traditional and digital methods for
acquiring, preserving, describing, and making accessible special
collections.
Candidates must possess strong interpersonal skills with a commitment to
public service. Must also demonstrate strong oral presentation and
written communication skills. Candidates must possess strong
organizational skills with a focus on accuracy and attention to detail.
Experience in planning exhibitions is strongly preferred. Experience in
preparing publications is highly desirable. Knowledge of at least one
modern or classical foreign language is a plus.
Salary and Benefits:
Salary commensurate with experience with minimum salary in the low
$60,000's. SMU offers a comprehensive benefits package including
retirement plan with immediate vesting and tuition benefits for
employees and their families.
Application:
Priority consideration will be given to submissions received by March 1,
2008. The position will remain open until filled. SMU is AA/EO employer
committed to excellence through diversity. Please visit
www.smu.edu/hr/recruit to apply or submit resume and cover letter to:
Search Committee 008006, SMU, P. O. Box 750232, Dallas, TX 75275-0232.
(job id 921).