A dynamic organization devoted to library services for the East Asian studies communities in North America since 1958.

University of Minnesota Libraries: Librarian for East Asian Studies

The University of Minnesota Libraries invites applications for a liaison librarian who is excited to collaborate with scholars in the humanities and across the University utilizing Chinese, Korean, and Japanese Language materials and the East Asian Library. We seek applicants who are energized by the opportunity to work with creative and innovative colleagues. The position will primarily support the scholarship of students, faculty, and staff affiliated with the Asian and Middle Eastern Studies department and the Institute of Linguistics. Liaison librarians combine skills in outreach, teaching, technology, and collection development with their knowledge of scholarly practices in assigned disciplines to partner with academic departments.

This position is part of the Area Studies & Humanities department and reports to the Area Studies & Humanities Director. The Libraries’ culture is deeply collaborative, and the Libraries rely on the diverse expertise of library staff to work on strategic initiatives and service development. The successful candidate will participate in intraorganizational groups that tackle evolving information challenges. The individual in this role will also contribute to the knowledge base of the profession through research, publication, and professional engagement, as they work toward continuous appointment status.

Institutional Context
The University Libraries is an integral part of campus life.  Recognized in 2017 with the IMLS National Medal, the Libraries is a significant contributor of resources and programs within the metropolitan area, the state, and beyond.  The Libraries provides a highly collaborative environment, distinguished by new models for teaching/learning, research support, and scholarly communication.

The Libraries is known for its advanced web services, significant collaborative digital library development, and a record of innovative partnerships. Outreach is strengthened by unparalleled infrastructure for resource sharing and information access within the state and region provided by the University Libraries-based Minitex program.  The Libraries is a member of the Association of Research Libraries, the Big Ten Academic Alliance, the Center for Research Libraries, the Digital Library Federation, and the Coalition for Networked Information, and is a founding partner in the HathiTrust.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop strong relationships with faculty, and staff affiliated with the Asian and Middle Eastern Studies department and the Institute of Linguistics, identifying opportunities for deeper partnerships.
  • Integrate information literacy and other research skills in the departmental curriculum.
  • Connect scholars at all levels with the expertise they need to be more effective researchers through strong outreach, research consultations, and excellence in teaching.
  • Build and manage collections and services that advance the work of disciplines supported by the East Asian Librarian with attention to cross-disciplinary and collaborative collection development opportunities.
  • Support the full lifecycle of student and faculty research through connecting scholars with information on researcher identity and impact management; research dissemination options; research material management; open access; and copyright.
  • In conjunction with the Access Services Department, shape the East Asian Library to be a hub of activity and resources for researchers in the Twin Cities.
  • Contribute to the goals and strategic initiatives of the Libraries through leadership of and/or active participation in committees.
  • Add to professional scholarship through research.

This is a full-time, 12-month, continuous-appointment track, academic professional position with probationary appointment at the Assistant or Associate Librarian level. The salary range for this position is $57,500 – $75,000.  The Libraries offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience.  Excellent benefits and substantial moving allowance.

Qualifications

Required:

  • American Library Association accredited Master’s degree in Library/Information Science or equivalent combination of advanced degree and relevant experience.
  • Proficiency in Chinese language.
  • Demonstrated ability to support, respect and commit to embracing diverse backgrounds, values, and points of view in order to foster an inclusive community.
  • Facility with technology and its application in academic contexts.
  • Demonstrated ability to teach.
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with faculty and students in a research-intensive environment.
  • Evidence of excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred:

  • Undergraduate or graduate degree in a field related to East Asian language and culture.
  • Proficiency in Korean and/or Japanese language.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of East Asian Studies research practices and research management of East Asian language materials in multiple formats.
  • Experience developing and managing partnerships with academic departments and external communities.
  • Demonstrated involvement in professional activities, including evidence of ability to contribute to librarianship, research, and service as well as capacity for leadership within the profession.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Please attach the following documents in Word or PDF Format:  (DO NOT copy and paste.)

  •  Cover Letter (identify cover letter with UL423).  
  • Names, addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of three current references. 

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your “My Activities” page and uploading documents there.  Review of applications begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu.

Background Check Information

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.