"Associate Director of Access Services"

Job Details

The University Libraries at Colgate University invite applications for an Associate Director of Access Services. Reporting to the University Librarian, the associate director provides leadership and expertise for planning and management of the borrowing services operations of the University Libraries that are inclusive, high-touch, and outcomes driven. This role also focuses on the development and implementation of programs and services to support the student experience within the University Libraries.

The associate director leads and manages an experienced borrowing services team responsible for day-to-day operations of the department to facilitate access to the University’s extraordinary print and digital collections. The department is responsible for circulation, reserves, interlibrary loan, the science library, the automated storage and retrieval system (LASR), and stacks maintenance. The associate director takes an active role in convening meetings for the department and any associated committees, task forces, and working groups as appropriate. Core responsibilities include providing leadership, strategic planning, and policy development for the borrowing services team and supporting the University Librarian in vetting new ideas, initiatives, and strategic plans.

The associate director provides comprehensive support for students by planning and coordinating library participation in orientation activities and other student engagement events on campus, as appropriate. They will work collaboratively with access services staff to identify and develop sustainable, high-impact library initiatives that engage and support undergraduates. In addition, the associate director plans, develops, and implements the Libraries’ social media presence and newsletter to communicate the Libraries’ services to students, faculty, and the broader community.

All library faculty at Colgate are expected to engage in University service and sustain an active record of professional service and scholarship in the field of Library and Information Science.

Colgate is a vibrant liberal arts University of 3,200 students situated in central New York state. Colgate faculty are committed to excellence in both teaching and scholarship. Learn more about University Libraries. Applicants with dual-career considerations can find postings of other employment opportunities at Colgate and at other institutions of higher education in upstate New York at this website.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for circulation, interlibrary loan, collaborative resource sharing, print and electronic reserves, the automated storage and retrieval system (LASR), and stacks maintenance.
• Continue the library’s exploration, implementation, and assessment of new approaches to access, resource sharing, and outreach services.
• Work closely with and supervise the Circulation and Integrated Library Systems Manager; convene and attend regular departmental meetings.
• Advise the University Librarian regarding the libraries’ participation in resource sharing partnerships.
• Develop creative and compelling content to encourage student use of the Libraries’ vast resources and collections in pursuit of maximizing Colgate’s liberal arts education.
• Create innovative library programs (e.g. group study sessions, study breaks, co-curricular resource highlights, etc.) that promote the library as a welcoming and inclusive space in support of students’ academic success at Colgate.
• Partner with staff in the Dean of the College division to develop and provide outreach services and programs to engage students with and promote the Libraries’ resources and services.
• Collaborate with librarians on the Outreach and Engagement team to integrate input from liaison areas into user experience efforts.
• Develop and maintain Libraries social media presence and newsletter to highlight people, events, and initiatives within the University Libraries.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the University Librarian.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• An MLS/MLIS from an ALA-accredited institution or equivalent
• At least five years of experience working in an academic or research library
• At least three years of administrative experience with direct supervision of full-time personnel
• Knowledge and understanding of trends and best practices in access services and student success

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with one or more aspects of borrowing services, e.g. circulation, reserves, resource sharing, automated storage and retrieval systems (LASR) and stacks maintenance.
• Familiarity with systems and software used within the borrowing services unit (ALMA/PRIMO, ILLiad, Moodle, Sling)
• Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities
• Strong ability to manage multiple projects at the same time
• Excellent writing, grammar, and copyediting skills, with specific interest and experience in writing for social media using relevant conventions and voice
• Experience in multimedia asset creation and editing that includes photo and video
• Experience with library statistical standards, data, tools, and assessment of library services
• Deep and broad understanding of core concepts related to diversity and inclusion, with an awareness of current issues in academic libraries

Salary Range of Pay Grade

The minimum starting salary is $81,000. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Application Instructions

Applications for the position should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references should, submitted through Interfolio. In your cover letter, please outline your scholarship and professional development plans and goals. Also, tell us how you envision Colgate University Libraries supporting you and contributing to your success in accomplishing these goals. Colgate strives to be a community supportive of diverse perspectives and identities, as reflected in the University’s Third Century Plan. In their cover letter, candidates must describe how their practice as a librarian might support the University’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Review of applications will begin on September 25, 2025, and continue until the position is filled.