The Ohio University Libraries seeks applications and nominations for an

innovative and collaborative professional to provide leadership and direction

for preservation and conservation efforts throughout the University Libraries.

The successful candidate will be joining the Libraries at an exciting time;

development of a new strategic plan is currently underway, with a vision of the

Libraries as a “dynamic gateway for the discovery, creation and exchange of

knowledge, enabling students, faculty and staff to realize their promise and

achieve excellence.”

The collections of the Ohio University Libraries currently include

approximately 2.25 million print volumes and 750,000 digital volumes, with

notable strength in Southeast Asian and African materials, fine arts, and

special collections related to contemporary history and journalism. The

Preservation Department includes a spacious and well-equipped conservation lab

located in the Southeast Ohio Regional Library Depository building, and funding

for preservation includes support from one of the Libraries’ largest

endowments.

The Southeast Ohio Regional Library Depository is located two miles from

campus, and is managed and staffed by the Ohio University Libraries. It is

part of a network of high density remote storage facilities that are managed

cooperatively by Ohio’s state universities. This facility holds

approximately 750,000 volumes in climate-controlled conditions; depository

staff delivers material to the Ohio University campus daily.

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Assistant Dean for Collections and Access, this position

manages the activities of the Preservation Department (1.5 FTE non-exempt

staff), and oversees the high-density collection storage facility (1 FTE

administrative staff and 1 FTE non-exempt staff). The department head must

also work closely and collaboratively with most library departments,

particularly with the staff of Stacks and Media Management, the Mahn Center for

Archives and Special Collections, the Fine Arts Library, Digital Initiatives,

the Center for International Collections, and the Music Library. Specifically,

the head of the Preservation Department:

• Establishes guidelines for appropriate physical storage and maintenance of the Libraries’ collections in all locations.

• Evaluates conservation needs of items from the Libraries’ general and special collections, and determines optimal treatment.

• Treats rare and special collections materials, including books and non-print materials

• Hires, trains, and manages performance of Preservation Unit employees, and oversees operation of Southeast Ohio Regional Library Depository.

• Educates library staff on preservation issues; leads disaster preparedness & response planning efforts related to library collections.

• Responds to disasters which threaten and/or damage library collections; coordinates the salvage and treatment of damaged materials.

• Advises on digital preservation initiatives in the University Libraries.

• Pursues and administers grant proposals for preservation projects.

• Assists with special projects related to management of campus and depository collections.

• Engages in regular professional development activities as part of

continuing commitment to increasing effectiveness.

Qualifications

Required

• A master’s degree in library/information science from an ALA-accredited institution, or a master’s degree in another relevant subject such as public history

• Formal training and experience in conservation techniques on a wide range of library materials (demonstrated through a portfolio of the applicant’s work)

• Minimum 3 years progressive responsibility in conservation work in a library, museum, or archival setting

• Demonstrated commitment to data-informed decision making processes

• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Preferred

• Demonstrated knowledge of current and emerging trends in academic libraries as well as in digital and print preservation

• Successful supervisory experience

• Experience in leading teams and fostering collaborative relationships

• Experience writing and administering grants

Salary & Benefits

Salary is commensurate with experience and education. Ohio University employees

enjoy a liberal benefits package, including 22 days annual vacation, generous

insurance, and Ohio state employee or alternative retirement.

Review of applications begins September 26; however applications will be

accepted until a suitable candidate is identified. Position available

immediately.

Ohio University is committed to the diversity of faculty, staff and students.

Applicants who will enrich the diversity of our campus are especially

encouraged to apply.