University Librarian

The University Library is a student-centered R1 academic library that supports research, teaching, and learning across every discipline at Iowa State University. It includes Parks Library, the Veterinary Medical Library, and the Remote Library Storage Facility. With an annual operating budget of approximately $24 million, a $5 million endowment, and more than $500,000 in annual private support, the library partners closely with academic units, student affairs, and the broader community. Parks Library is the intellectual and social hub of campus, welcoming nearly one million visitors each year. It offers diverse study spaces, advanced technology, specialized learning and media production facilities, and collaborative environments that foster student success, innovative teaching, and wellbeing through initiatives such as Cyclone Support Central.

The Colonel Gary G. Swenson Ph.D. University Librarian, an endowed position reporting to the Senior Vice President and Provost, serves as the chief academic and administrative leader of the Iowa State University Library. The University Librarian advances the university's land-grant mission by championing student success, strengthening research excellence, and leading the strategic integration of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. As a member of the university's senior leadership team, the Librarian develops strategy, cultivates partnerships, secures internal and external support, and fosters a culture of innovation and excellence. The position oversees 103 staff, 100 student employees, and 12 library departments, ensuring outstanding services, collections, technology, and research support for the university community.

Required and preferred qualifications, and the complete job description are available in the full position profile linked here.

Academic Search is assisting Iowa State University in this search. All inquiries, nominations, and applications will be held in strict confidence. To learn more about this opportunity and discuss your qualifications and interest, potential applicants are encouraged to schedule a confidential conversation with our Senior Consultant, Stacey Morgan Foster, JD. Please contact IowaStateUL@academicsearch.org.

Applications may be submitted though www.academicsearch.org/IowaStateULApply. Please include a detailed cover letter, addressed to the Search Committee, addressing your interest in this position and the specific ways you meet the qualifications and expectations outlined in this search profile; a current full resume or curriculum vitae that includes relevant education, positions/titles, responsibilities, and accomplishments; and a list of five professional references, including their names, titles, organizations, phone numbers, and email addresses, noting your relationship with each reference. References will not be contacted until later in the search process upon the candidate's permission. The best consideration application deadline is September 10, 2026, with a start date of February 1, 2027 (negotiable).

Although nominations are not required to be considered for this position, leaders who know of outstanding candidate are welcome to submit confidential nominations by sending an email to IowaStateUL@academicsearch.org. Please include the nominee's full name, position, institution/organization, and email address. Academic Search will notify individuals of their nomination, provide details about the position, and encourage them to apply.