Dean of Libraries and Carol Grotnes Belk Distinguished Professor for Library and Information Studies

Appalachian State University invites nominations and applications for the position of Dean of Libraries and Carol Grotnes Belk Distinguished Professor for Library and Information Studies. 

The University seeks an inspiring, visionary library leader with excellent interpersonal skills and a record of scholarship in her/his field of expertise.   The Dean will foster a work environment that welcomes change and innovation to meet new challenges and that balances traditional library values with the evolving roles for libraries in higher education.  We seek an engaging and articulate leader to advocate for the library, its faculty and staff, and its mission to assist those who pursue knowledge.

The successful candidate must have an ALA accredited master’s degree as well as an additional advanced degree.  A doctoral degree is preferred.  Ten years of appropriate experience and an outstanding reputation in scholarship and professional service are also required.  Preferred qualifications include commitment and skills in communication and collaboration with a consultative and transparent management style, fundraising and financial management, collection and special collection management, information literacy and public services, faculty and staff human resource issues, experience with extensive programming and outreach efforts, and a demonstrated commitment to diversity. 

Located in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian State University (www.appstate.edu) is a member institution of the University of North Carolina system and enrolls over 17,000 students.  Low student-teacher ratios, a strong focus on student support, and an emphasis on student research and creative endeavors make the University a first-choice campus throughout North Carolina and the Southeast. 

Opened in 2005, the main library facility, the Belk Library and Information Commons (www.library.appstate.edu), is distinctive for its beautiful design and popularity with students.  The Library plays a central role in the campus and distance learning communities and seeks to broaden the learning experience, encourage creativity and scholarship at all levels, deepen campus engagement with the community and world, and develop an effective organization that can meet current and future information needs.

The Libraries feature outstanding physical and e-resource collections, including nearly 1 million volumes, Special Collections such as the W. L. Eury Appalachian Collection, Stock Car Racing Collection, Rare Books and Manuscripts Collections, University Archives and Records, a large Instructional Materials Center, and the Erneston Music Library.  The Libraries offer an ambitious information literacy curriculum (over 800 classes taught last year) and one-on-one consultations with students and faculty.  Technology is key to the Libraries, with a state-of-the-art Digital Media Studio, hundreds of desktop and laptop computers for campus use, and multiple e-learning projects and initiatives. 

Review of completed applications will begin on January 7, 2013 and will continue until the position is filled.  The preferred start date is July 1, 2013.  Applicants should submit the following documents electronically in PDF format:

• A cover letter of application
• A current vitae
• A list of five references (including name, relationship to applicant, phone, email, mailing address)

All documents should be emailed to Sherrye Perry, perrysj@appstate.edu.  Other correspondence should be directed to the committee co-chairs, Georgie Donovan (donovangl@appstate.edu | 828.262.7571) or Tim Burwell (burwellth@appstate.edu | 828.262.2070). 

Appalachian State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.  The University has a strong commitment to the principles of diversity and inclusion, and to maintaining working and learning environments that are free from all forms of discrimination.  Candidates from underrepresented ethnic and racial groups are particularly encouraged to apply.  Individuals with disabilities desiring accommodations in the application process should contact the committee co-chairs at the email addresses listed above.  Proper documentation of identity and employability will be required before the hiring process can be finalized.  Any offer of employment to a successful candidate will be conditioned upon the University’s receipt of a satisfactory criminal background report.

Web link: http://hrs.appstate.edu/employment/epa-jobs/717