Position: Director, Special Collections Directorate
Location: Library of Congress
Salary: $132,552 – $199,300

Full vacancy announcement available on USAJOBS.

The Director has overall responsibility, as well as delegated authority, for the oversight and administration of broad, emerging, and critical agency programs or operations. Is primarily responsible for the direction and management of the Directorate and is charged with developing, building, and curating the digital and physical collections, stewardship and management of the collections, and sharing the collections by providing resources for researchers seeking to use the vast collections of the Library. Has responsibility for creating and managing metadata according to national standards for archival collections and for cartographic, music, and graphic materials. Has responsibility for researcher focused services, including multiple reading rooms and websites, as well as special collections access guidance, orientation, and instruction.

Working closely with the Center for Learning, Literacy, & Engagement, the Office of Communications, and the Center for Exhibits & Interpretation, leads the Special Collections Directorate in creating and participating in outreach initiatives, exhibits, and special events to creatively share the Library’s collections. Represents Researcher & Collections Services on a broad variety of Library-wide programs and projects to engage visitors and audiences online and on-site with the Library’s unique, special, and rare collections.

Plans, directs, and ensures the security of the collections in collaboration with appropriate management staff in the Divisions and officials throughout the Library. Is responsible for the provision of effective service to Congressional and government offices, to other Federal, academic, and public libraries, and to general readers and lifelong learners from the U.S. and abroad. Plans and directs the production of authoritative information such as research guides.

Plans and directs activities financed by gift, trust or permanent loan funds associated with the Library’s collections. In collaboration with the Development Office and the Librarian’s Office, proposes, plans, and directs activities financed by grants from institutions and foundations, or carries out negotiations with donors or prospective donors. Is responsible for budget and personnel planning within the divisions under his/her direction to assure a coordinated program designed to meet the mission and goals of the Special Collections Directorate, RCS, and the Library.

Serves as the primary advisor to the AL-RCS on various programs and events of the Special Collections Directorate. Works closely with the Director of the Center for Learning, Literacy and Engagement, as well as the Center for Exhibits and Interpretation within the Office of the Librarian to create and promote engagement of users with the Library’s Special Collections. Counsels senior management and officials at multiple levels of the Library of Congress; senior staff of the Directorate; and private sector clients and vendors on agency matters.

Works closely with the Center for Learning, Literacy & Engagement and Office of Communications to plan, support, and implement events and programs to share the Library’s unique collections. Leads the Special Collections Directorate engagement activities, creating and participating in outreach programs, special events, multimedia, and social media. Represents Researcher & Collections Services on a broad variety of Library-wide programs and projects to engage visitors and audiences with the Library’s unique, special, and rare collections, as well as build new generations of Library users.

Establishes performance expectations for subordinate managers. Provides informal feedback and formally evaluates direct reports on organizational and individual performance. Provides advice and counsel to staff members and subordinate managers. Effects disciplinary measures. Reviews and approves or disapproves leave requests.

Promotes the spirit and practice of diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity programs, ensuring that the commitment to equal opportunity is carried forward in all aspects of Human Resources management. The Director is responsible for furthering the goals of equal employment opportunity (EEO) by taking positive steps to ensure the accomplishment of affirmative action objectives and by adhering to nondiscriminatory employment practices in regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or handicap. Specifically, the incumbent initiates non-discriminatory practices and affirmative action for the area under his/her direction in the following:(1) merit promotion of employees and recruitment and hiring of applicants; (2) fair treatment of all employees; (3) encouragement and recognition of employee achievements; (4) career development of employees; and (5) full utilization of their skills.

Qualifications
The competencies below are required for this position. Those marked with a double asterisk (**) are considered the most critical competencies for this position.

A candidate’s resume must show a proven record of accomplishment that clearly demonstrates he or she has:

Ability to lead and manage a program/area of responsibility**: The successful candidate has acquired and administered human, financial, material, and information resources to accomplish an organization’s mission. Accomplished strategic and operational goals for an agency/organization and in doing so had the following responsibilities: 1) developed program performance objectives/targets that support the organization’s mission and goals, 2) conducted regular reviews and prepared annual assessments of accomplishments and outcomes/results, 3) advised senior level officials, 4) oversaw day-to-day operations directly and through subordinate supervisors, 5) worked with both internal and national external organizations to achieve program goals, 6) evaluated current and proposed programs and operations and recommended actions to initiate, modify, or discontinue projects, 7) developed and integrated policies and processes for your area of responsibility, and 8) planned, acquired, and organized resources and people.

Knowledge of the principles, concepts, and techniques of library and archival practices**: The successful candidate has applied professional knowledge of library and information management principles, concepts and techniques to manage library functions and carry out library programs in a research library setting; using this knowledge to create content, organize material, and provide access to special and digital collections. Experience with the following: 1) setting priorities and policies for rare and special collections management, including archival processing; 2) cataloging or description of digital collection items; 3) evaluation of collection materials to determine strategies to organize and make accessible, including strategies to address large quantities of unprocessed collections; 4) providing leadership for a collection development program; and 5) working closely with library subject specialists in setting reference service priorities and targets.

Ability to build coalitions and professional networks**: The successful candidate has identified, built, and maintained relationships and professional networks to gain support and commitment from scholars and other learners; the publishing and creative community; and colleagues in the library and archival field. This includes: 1) participating in and representing the institution at professional association meetings; 2) working collaboratively with other departments, agencies and organizations to further agency goals and objectives; 3) establishing cordial relationships with donors and potential donors to obtain additions to Library collections; and 4) working with the archival and research library community to identify trends and issues related to the collections and services of the Library.

Ability to lead people and manage a diverse workforce: The successful candidate has led people to meet an organization’s vision, mission, and strategic goals, including ongoing improvements in customer services. Provided an inclusive workplace that fostered the development of others, facilitated cooperation and teamwork, and supported constructive resolution of differing opinions by using innovative approaches and future-oriented thinking. Performed human resources management functions such as: managed the budget and personnel planning for organizational units under his/her direction; established performance expectations for subordinate supervisors and staff; provided formal and informal performance feedback and evaluated staff; and promoted the goals of equal employment opportunity and ensured the office was free of discriminatory employment practices.

Ability to lead and inspire change: The successful candidate has the ability to lead and inspire change in developing and implementing agency values, principles, and direction. This includes the ability to think creatively and recognize innovation; promote ideas with enthusiasm, conviction, and assertiveness; resolve contentious situations; solicit and consider others’ opinions; gain support and commitment from others; motivate and inspire others; demonstrate flexibility; and promote a culture of change and growth.

Ability to present information orally through briefings, consultations, and other presentations: The successful candidate has conveyed analysis and information orally through briefings, consultations and other presentations, in both planned and extemporaneous situations. This included shaping the appropriate amount, form, depth and level of detail, and content of information to the needs of the receiver/audience.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing and review and assess the writing of others: The successful candidate has written clear, cogent, accurate, well-organized, and understandable written products in the area of information or library management, such as: 1) strategic planning and forecasting documents; 2) policies; 3) budget requests; 4) funding proposals; 5) program goals and objectives; 6) project plans; 7) contract statements of work; 8) program performance documentation; 9) annual reports; and, 10) library program information for the Congress. This includes targeting the amount, form, depth and level of detail, and content of the information to the needs of the receiver/audience. Evaluated the written products of others to meet the quality standards of the organization.

Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing: The successful candidate has the ability to effectively express ideas and recommendations other than in writing in various settings to peers, staff, managers, supervisors, and external audiences to both provide and seek information. This includes actively listening to or understanding communicated information and answering questions thoughtfully and completely.

Education
BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

All librarians must meet the requirements for professional education in library science or possess equivalent experience and education.

A. Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor’s degree;

or

B. A total of at least 5 years of a combination of college-level education, training, and experience. To qualify on this basis, the applicant must establish conclusively that the education, training, and experience provided knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and techniques of professional librarianship; a knowledge of literature resources; and the knowledge and abilities essential for providing effective library and information services.

You MUST submit a legible copy of your college/university transcripts to your online application. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at the time of application. Official transcripts will be required if selected. Failure to submit the required legible documentation at the time of application will result in disqualification of your application.

Foreign Education – Education completed outside the U.S. must be deemed equivalent to conventional/accredited U.S. education programs to be acceptable for Federal employment. If your college/university is outside the U.S., your transcripts must be accompanied by a report from a credential evaluation service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE). Failure to submit a foreign education evaluation report will result in disqualification of your application.

Position: Middle Eastern Studies Liaison & Reference Librarian, Research Services
Location: Georgetown University Library

Located in a historic neighborhood in the nation’s capital, Georgetown offers rigorous academic programs, a global perspective, exciting ways to take advantage of Washington, D.C., and a commitment to social justice. Our community is a tight knit group of remarkable individuals interested in intellectual inquiry and making a difference in the world.

Requirements

The Middle Eastern Studies Liaison and Reference Librarian supports the teaching and research activities of the University by developing and managing—in all relevant formats—the Library’s collection in Middle Eastern and Arabic Studies and other subject areas as assigned; by providing research, reference, and instructional services; and by coordinating the content and organization of appropriate Web pages.
Research and Instruction:

This position serves as the expert for all services related to sources for study of the Middle East and Arabic language and culture, and provides general reference and information services in the social sciences, business, and the humanities. Interprets and analyzes the information needs of students, faculty, and other library users. Recommends and directs users to appropriate sources of information including those in the Special Collections Research Center and digital collections. Teaches library research sessions in subject areas congruent with collection responsibilities and creates research guides and other instructional materials. Employs new technologies to enhance reference and instruction services—e.g., social networking tools, multimedia, and learning management systems—in order to reach users in an increasingly online environment. In addition, the Middle Eastern Studies Liaison and Reference Librarian is responsible for identifying, creating, managing, and maintaining the content of the Web pages and other online resources related to his/her field.

Collection Development:

This position serves as the Library’s principal liaison to faculty, graduate and undergraduate students engaged in the study of the Middle East and Arabic speaking world. For the assigned subject areas, the librarian will develop collections in line with the pedagogical and research needs of the University; work closely with faculty to understand and be responsive to their research and curricular needs; keep them informed of the Library’s activities, and integrate the Library’s collection and service resources into faculty research and curricular activities.

Additionally, the librarian contributes to the development of cooperative collection development initiatives with other libraries and library consortia; recommends annual allocations, manages vendor approval plans, and assists in monitoring the library materials budget in assigned disciplines.

Work Interactions
The Middle Eastern Studies Liaison and Reference Librarian reports to the Head of Research Services, along with ten other subject liaisons and reference librarians. This position works closely with other department colleagues and with the department’s gifts unit, with the Director of Copyright & Scholarly Communication, the curators in the Booth Family Center for Special Collections, and with staff of the ordering, receiving, and electronic resources & serials units of the Technical Services Department. The Middle Eastern Studies Liaison and Reference Librarian also engages with faculty, students, and staff in assigned areas, developing strong relationships and promoting the Library’s relevant services and collections. Work is performed primarily in an office environment.

Requirements and Qualifications
Degree requirement: Master’s Degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution

Required Qualifications:
Incumbent is expected to read print of various sizes, move book trucks weighing up to 40 lbs., retrieve books, and operate computers and peripherals.
A minimum of two years of experience working with students, faculty, and staff in a public service capacity (outreach and instruction) in an academic or research library environment
Reading fluency in Arabic with research-level knowledge of the Middle East or Arabic language and culture studies
Experience with collection development in an academic or research library, including familiarity with core print and e-resources relevant to the Middle East
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, and work collaboratively with a range of individuals
Expertise in or familiarity with current instructional and multimedia technologies
Expertise in or familiarity with web-authoring applications
Demonstrated interest in the application of information technologies in the social sciences
Strong service commitment to working with students, faculty, staff, and other communities
Commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace, and an ability to work effectively with a diverse faculty, staff, and student population
Either a bachelor’s degree in Middle Eastern Studies, Arabic language and culture or a related area; or experience with Middle Eastern Studies collections and research methods
Preferred Qualifications:
Second graduate degree in Middle Eastern studies, Arabic studies or a related field, equivalent years of work, and/or other equivalent expertise
Knowledge of scholarly publishing and research dissemination practices, ideally in the Middle East and North Africa
Record of participation or interest in professional development activities (presentations, participation in professional organizations, etc.)
Reading fluency in Turkish
Environment:
The Georgetown University Library is an agile organization located in the nation’s capital, committed to advancing Georgetown University’s global leadership in academics and research, while also addressing the requirements of the changing landscape of higher education and the evolving nature of scholarly communication. By providing preeminent services, collections and spaces, the Library contributes to the creation, dissemination and preservation of knowledge, as well as the transformation of learning and research.

The Library is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse staff dedicated to excellence in service, continuous learning, and leadership within the library profession. With diversity as one of its core values, the Library not only seeks to actively recruit and retain a diverse workforce, but also ensures the acquisition of a diverse collection of materials and a climate of openness and respect for all traditions, cultures, and ideas.

The Library actively promotes its values – lifelong learning, collaboration, leadership, quality, integrity, and diversity -in its daily tasks. Whenever possible, the Library offers flexible work schedules and telework options, and supports continuous learning opportunities in order to achieve the highest quality of service that can be offered.

The University offers a comprehensive benefit package which includes health insurance, tuition benefits for employees and their children, retirement benefits, as well as flexible work schedules and telework options.

Please note that COVID-19 has reshaped the way interviews and work locations will be managed at this time. The safety and well-being of our colleagues and applicants is our first priority. The Georgetown University Library anticipates conducting all interviews virtually. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the University’s need to limit the number of on-campus employees, the successful applicant may be asked to perform their job remotely for a limited period of time until the University can permit more employees to work on campus.

Current Georgetown Employees:

If you currently work at Georgetown University, please exit this website and login to GMS (gms.georgetown.edu) using your Net ID and password. Then select the Career worklet on your GMS Home dashboard to view Jobs at Georgetown.

Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any position at Georgetown University you must submit a cover letter and resume for each position of interest for which you believe you are qualified. These documents are not kept on file for future positions.

Need Assistance:

If you are a qualified individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please click here for more information, or contact the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Affirmative Action (IDEAA) at 202-687-4798 or ideaa@georgetown.edu.

Need some assistance with the application process? Please call 202-687-2500. For more information about the suite of benefits, professional development and community involvement opportunities that make up Georgetown’s commitment to its employees, please visit the Georgetown Works website.

EEO Statement:

Georgetown University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer fully dedicated to achieving a diverse faculty and staff. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and expression, and sexual orientation), disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Benefits:

Georgetown University offers a wide variety of comprehensive and competitive benefits. Benefits packages include comprehensive health, dental and vision plans, disability and life insurance coverage, retirement savings programs, tuition assistance, voluntary insurance options (including group legal, accident, and critical illness), and much more. Whatever your need, the Office of Faculty and Staff Benefits will be standing by to support you. You can learn more about the benefits offered to eligible faculty and staff at https://benefits.georgetown.edu or view the online interactive benefits guide for more information.

Position: Reference Librarian
Location: Alston & Bird (Washington, D.C. office or other office)

Originally posted on the SLA Career Center.

Description

COVID-19: Vaccination Requirement: One of the essential functions of this position is the ability to work on-site at one or more of Alston & Bird’s offices. Effective August 30, 2021, Alston & Bird requires all employees who access our offices to be fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. By submitting your resume for consideration, you acknowledge that you will comply with A&B’s vaccination and office access policies. Any questions about A&B’s vaccination requirement should be directed to Trevor Barker.

THE FIRM

At Alston & Bird, our people trust the people they work for, take pride in what they do, enjoy the people they work with, and serve the communities in which they live. Our environment has been praised as one of the most open and receptive in the United States, not only among law firms, but also among all businesses. Alston & Bird has been ranked by Fortune magazine as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For©” for 22 years in a row.

ROLE SUMMARY

*Position will be office based once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted

Professional position that provides both legal and non-legal research and reference assistance to all attorneys and staff for client-generated projects and Firm projects. Firm projects include, but are not limited to, marketing research, seminar development, pro-bono work, preparation of published material, and professional development.

Requirements

Essential Duties

Conducts research projects as requested by attorneys and staff
Provides research consultation to attorneys and staff
Assists in location of specific material including but not limited to case law, statutory law, regulations, legislative history, secondary sources, directories, periodicals and business information
Trains attorneys and staff in use of library materials and databases
Conducts online research using multiple resources including but not limited to Lexis, Westlaw, Intelligize, Checkpoint, StateNet, Manzama, WKCheetah, Bloomberg Government, and National Journal online
Provides current awareness services on specific subjects as requested by attorneys and staff
Provides direct research service to clients as requested by attorneys
Facilitates the indoctrination of new attorneys and staff and summer associates into Firm library procedures, services and resources
Provides special training and library assistance to summer associates
Undertakes specific projects as directed by the Director of Library Services. (Examples: annual updating of all Georgia county zoning laws; developing a library brochure, producing the library monthly newsletter; evaluating a new product; etc.)
Maintains ongoing professional development through review of legal and library publications, attending professional association seminars and meetings, receiving regular training from vendors
Promotes library public relations by maintaining a professional, service-oriented attitude and by keeping current on the needs and trends of the Firm
Operates independently and as a team as the needs demand
Operates with the advice and consultation of the Director of Library Services
Responsible to all library users including attorneys, staff and library colleagues
SKILLS NEEDED TO BE SUCCESSFUL

Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Extensive knowledge of legal and non-legal resources.
Ability to set priorities and make appropriate judgments.
Ability to work under pressure.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

A Master of Library Science from an ALA accredited school or a Master’s degree in a relevant area or equivalent degree, such as Business or JD.
An undergraduate degree in Business, Finance, Science or Healthcare.
2+ years of experience in legal and/or business research in the library or research group at a law firm, corporate or professional services firm. Legislative monitoring experience a plus.
Solid knowledge of standard legal and/or business research resources such as Lexis, Westlaw, D&B, Bloomberg, Intelligize, Lex Machina, etc.
Proficiency in the MS Office suite, including Excel and Power Point.
PHYSICAL EFFORT

Repetitive motions‑substantial movements of the wrists, hands and/or fingers
Crouching, kneeling, standing, climbing, stooping, walking, pushing, pulling and lifting
Talking‑expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken word
Ability to convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately
Hearing‑ability to receive detailed information through oral communication
Sitting most of the time

Alston & Bird LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer does not discriminate on the bases of any status protected under federal, state, or local law. Applicants will be considered regardless of their sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition (associated with cancer, a history of cancer, or genetic characteristics), HIV/AIDS status, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, or other protected category under the law on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, national origin, veteran status or disability in relation to our recruiting, hiring, and promoting practices.

The statements contained in this position description are not necessarily all-inclusive, additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned and requirements may vary from time to time.

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability you may contact us at brennan.fulton@alston.com.

Professional business references and a background check will be required for all final applicants selected for a position.

Alston & Bird is not currently accepting resumes from agencies for this position. If you are a recruiter, search firm, or employment agency, you will not be compensated in any way for your referral of a candidate even if Alston & Bird hires the candidate.