Deputy Librarian

Overall Role and Context

A member of the library management team, the successful candidate will contribute to the leadership and mission of the library in providing quality information resources, services, supports, resources and facilities to the University community.

• Part of a team of Deputy Librarians who collectively will contribute to managing the library service, implement library policy and progress library development and growth under the direction and guidance of the Heads of Library & Information Services.

• Shares strategic oversight of all the activities of the library with other members of the Library Management Team and will play a key role in the development of the library. Assist the Head Librarian in all academic, strategic and management affairs of the Library and may deputise for the Head Librarian as required.

• Co-ordinate cross library management processes – budget, people, strategic resource plans and be responsible for overseeing service improvement and quality at whole library level.

• Significant knowledge of library operations is required, with demonstrable experience of managing financial and people resources at a strategic level. The role holder will manage and lead substantial change and library service development programmes. Knowledge and experience should have typically been gained over a substantive period.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

The Deputy Librarian will be required to assist in the pro-active, cost effective and efficient running of the library and information service in support of the teaching, learning and research requirements of SETU. Management of teams will be a key component of the post.

This post involves oversight of key specific areas in the library including library technical and digital services; technological requirements and resourcing; managing and developing the learning support and teaching service; special collections, library outreach and development; library infrastructure, collection development and strategic planning.

The range of duties attached to the post is varied and subject to change, but includes inter alia:

• Contributing to the management of the library and its staff, under the guidance of the Head of Library & Information Services.

• To contribute to library oversight in respect of planning at strategic and operational level.

• Collection development, electronic and web-based resource management.

• Identification of opportunities to further improve the cost effective and efficient provision of information services to the University and wider community.

• To implement University policy rules and regulations to facilitate the appropriate and efficient use of library resources by students and staff.

• To identify and deliver opportunities for library community engagement, outreach and development that benefits the library and the University.

• To participate in the organisation of the ordering, procurement, acquisition, licensing and purchasing of all library material on behalf of the wider University.

• To identify and disseminate information concerning the availability of key materials in subject fields relevant to the research and teaching of the University.

• To promote and participate in both internal and external user education programmes.

• To develop a cohesive and outward facing and progressive library profile via the various library communication channels, website and external engagement.

• To research, develop and introduce new products and services including management and oversight of library LMS and suite of applications including EDS, ERM, Repository.

• To identify and where appropriate, be responsible for the training needs of staff.

• To assist in the development and implementation of new information systems.

• To assist in the planning for future needs and developments.

• To participate in all committees / groups on which the appointee is a member or is assigned.

• To prepare and assist in the preparation of such reports as are required from time to time.

• To undertake other duties as may be defined by the Head of Library & Information Services.

Principal Accountabilities

• As a senior Librarian accountable for the end results of the Library, needs to manage and motivate senior library professionals and staff to deliver.

• Within the context of developing a University Library Strategic Plan and Library Management Team discussions, advises on library priorities in consultation with Heads of Library & Information Services.

• Contributes to co-ordinating the library budget and workforce planning process, monitors Library level expenditure, resource allocation.

Academic Qualifications

Appropriate first- or second-class level 8 degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline from a recognised degree awarding authority.

Professional Qualifications

Recognised postgraduate professional library qualification.

Experience

At least 5 years relevant experience at professional librarian or equivalent level.

Specific Knowledge and Skills

Understanding of higher educational environment, current developments and future role of libraries, user needs, library resourcing, elevated service provision.

I.T. Skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Suite to include Word, Excel & PowerPoint. Highly developed I.T. skills relevant to library technological developments.

Specific Personal Qualities

Excellent interpersonal, organisational, communication (written and oral) and administrative skills. An analytical and strategic thinker. Strong communicator with presentation experience. Ability and experience of managing teams.

Hours of Work

The appointee will be required to work 35 hours per week including nights and weekends. The successful candidate will have to be available to work evenings and Saturdays.

Salary

Grade VII salary scale: €60,011 – €78,016

Annual Leave

29 days annual leave. Annual Leave will be in accordance with arrangements authorised by the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science from time to time.