Librarian

LABI COLLEGE

JOB DESCRIPTION

Title: Head Librarian

Hours: Monday – Friday (Hourly –40 Hours Required).

Vacation Accrual: TBD

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Head Librarian reports to the Provost/Vice President of Academic Affairs and oversees all aspects of library operations, including planning, budgeting, technology, staffing, and program development. This role ensures the Library’s resources effectively support the teaching, research, and academic needs of students, faculty, and staff while maintaining compliance with ABHE accreditation standards. The Head Librarian also fosters partnerships with external institutions and professional organizations. A key responsibility of this role is engaging with students—providing research assistance, supporting academic success, managing learning resources, and ensuring the Library remains a welcoming and resourceful space for learning. The Head Librarian plays an active role in student support by overseeing the Writing Center, mentoring students, and ensuring library services align with student needs. The Head Librarian also contributes to institutional planning, serving on the Provost’s or President’s cabinet as needed, and participating in strategic initiatives, accreditation efforts, and quality improvement measures. Additionally, this role may involve teaching courses as assigned. This is an at-will employment position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Student Engagement & Support: Actively assist and mentor students, providing research guidance and academic support to enhance their learning experience.
• Library Operations: Manage daily operations, including budgeting, technology, and supervision of possible additional library staff and/or student workers.
• Strategic Planning & Assessment: Develop and implement initiatives to improve library services, support accreditation efforts, and enhance student satisfaction.
• Partnerships & Collaboration: Strengthen relationships with faculty, external libraries, and academic organizations to expand resources and opportunities.
• Administrative Leadership: Oversee library staff, contracts, evaluations, and record-keeping. Prepare reports and strategic plans in collaboration with the VPAA and CFO.
• Instruction & Program Development: Coordinate library programs, learning resources and experiences, provide training on research methods, and develop initiatives to support student success.
• Project & Resource Management: In collaboration with the Provost/CFO, develop and manage library budgets, improve service offerings, and implement innovative solutions for student and faculty needs.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

• A student-centered approach with a strong desire to assist and engage with students in their academic journey.
• Christian worldview—approaches people, challenges, and opportunities with a biblical perspective.
• Visionary leadership—inspires and mobilizes teams toward a shared mission.
• Problem-solving ability—analyzes issues effectively and develops creative solutions.
• Strong communication skills—able to present ideas clearly in writing and speech; bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Technological proficiency—knowledge of library software, research databases, and digital tools.
• Interpersonal & collaboration skills—able to foster positive relationships with students, faculty, staff, and external partners.
• Organizational expertise—manages multiple projects efficiently and meets deadlines.
• Commitment to innovation—identifies opportunities for growth and implements creative programs.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

Master of Library Science (MLS), Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), or equivalent degree, or current enrollment in an MLS program is required. A minimum of 2 years of relevant library experience is needed for consideration.