Harvard Divinity School Librarian

Job Summary

Harvard Divinity School (HDS) and Harvard Library seek a collaborative, inspiring leader to direct the Divinity School Library. Working directly with the Harvard Divinity School and with colleagues across Harvard Library, the Harvard Divinity School Librarian provides leadership in the ongoing evolution of unparalleled scholarly resources services supporting the study of religion at Harvard. The library staff cultivates a welcoming, user-oriented environment for teaching, learning, and collaboration among students, scholars, and librarians.

Reporting to the Dean of the Divinity School and working closely with the Vice President for the Harvard Library and University Librarian or delegates, the Librarian is a member of the school’s senior management team and the Harvard Library leadership team.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

• Oversee the management of the collections to ensure the selection and maintenance of well-balanced, innovative collections to support the teaching and research programs at Harvard.
• Advise and work closely with the Dean and Administrative Dean of the Divinity School on library matters.
• Prepare and recommend annual budget; monitor budget expenditures; assist with grant preparation and writing.
• Develop strong partnerships and collaborations across Harvard Library and with other University schools and academic programs to meet the teaching and research needs of faculty, scholars, and students.
• Through robust assessment and user engagement, develop effective strategies, programs, and library services to meet ever-changing user needs.
• Oversee the ongoing preservation and access of HDS’ unique collections, in collaboration with Harvard Library colleagues.
• Promote continuous learning and improvement through staff recruitment, retention, professional development, and mentoring. Supervise HDS library staff.
• Maintain strong organizational health and effectiveness at the HDS Library through planning and assessment.
• Participate in library fund raising, working with the HDS development and communications offices; build strong partnerships with donors.
• Contribute to HDS leadership by active participation in the administrative council and other senior management committees.
• Chair the HDS Library Committee to strengthen support for faculty initiatives in teaching, learning and research.
• Demonstrate professional leadership and commitment and conduct outreach and advocacy in appropriate regional, national, and international professional organizations.
• In partnership with HDS Facilities and Operations manage the HDS Library facilities.