Systems Librarian for Electronic Resources and Services

Requirements

The Systems Librarian for Electronic Resources and Services coordinates the management of the Library’s collection management and discovery platforms, including the Ex Libris Alma/Primo VE Integrated Library System; supports the integration of the system with other platforms used within the Library; and serves as a leader in designing, implementing, and maintaining additional tools and platforms for user discovery and management of Library resources. Working both independently and as a team member, they develop, implement, and assess Library tools and services by focusing on usability, accessibility, sustainability, and performance; and provide expertise and work collaboratively with staff across the Library to develop scripts or programs that automate tasks and workflows and optimize user discovery experiences. Reporting to the Head of Law Library Technology, the Systems Librarian has duties that include but are not limited to:

Manage the Library’s Integrated Library System

  • Serve as the administrator and main technical lead for the Library’s collection management and discovery systems, primarily Ex Libris Alma/Primo VE Integrated Library System (ILS), as well as specialized systems such as ArchivesSpace
  • Manage incoming data feeds including but not limited to: acquisitions and other data; complex bibliographic, holdings and item data; and patron data
  • Test new functionality and system upgrades, and evaluate current utilization of system modules and workflows to recommend modifications to workflows and system configurations as needed to increase efficiency
  • Troubleshoot problems with the managed systems and act as a liaison between the vendor and Library staff members to report problems and ensure their resolution
  • Act as the Library’s representative to various local and national user groups
  • Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of new tools, strategies, and services for management of Library resources
  • Conduct usability testing and user-centered design research to assess the user discovery experience, and use those assessments to develop and implement new solutions that integrate existing tools with new technologies and approaches to create an effective and seamless discovery experience for users

Document, Enhance, and Coordinate Library Systems

  • In close collaboration with the public services departments working directly with our end users, monitor system capabilities and functionality, and forward requests for system modifications and/or enhancements to the vendor as appropriate
  • In close collaboration with the Digital Initiatives and Special Collections departments, facilitate the full integration of archival collections and digital materials into the Library discovery platform, coordinating with Main Campus and other partners as needed
  • Lead the incorporation of both externally and internally developed systems into an organized and interconnected ecosystem
  • Lead the development of systems policies and procedures as needed to ensure the efficient use and management of Library systems
  • Gather and report statistics and data from Library systems to inform decision making related to Library services
  • Provide training and create documentation for internal and external users related to the ILS and other Library systems

Foster New and Innovative developments

  • Assist in the development of new Library systems and services through an iterative and data-driven process that emphasizes sustainability, end-user functionality, and accessible design that supports all of our users
  • Develop scripts or programs that enable automation of routine Library workflows and tasks, and develop enhancements to new and existing Library applications

Engage in Institutional, Local, and National Service

  • Participate in library committees and forums, search committees, task forces, etc. to contribute to the overall welfare of the library operations or to represent the unit; and may perform work for other departments or sections as part of library- wide efforts in cross-training and personal development.
  • Participate in professional organizations such as the American Association of Law Libraries, American Library Association, and the [local organization] as a library representative; actively participate in the advancement and promotion of the librarian profession; and serve in various leadership capacities within these groups
  • Maintain current awareness of new technologies and library trends by following news sources and participating in workshops and classes

Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Library or Information Science or equivalent
  • 5 to 8 years of library experience – preferably in an academic library
  • Demonstrated experience managing an integrated library system, a content management system, or other discovery systems – preferred experience with Ex Libris Alma/Primo
  • Experience managing technical projects or initiatives
  • Experience developing and/or supporting systems and strategies for automated library workflows
  • Familiarity with user-centered design to support usability testing of Library systems and services
  • Knowledge of current and recent industry trends in search, discovery, and delivery systems.
  • Understanding the different user information–seeking and information – using behavior of graduate-level libraries and services within the academic library setting
  • Firm understanding of current metadata and cataloging standards and processes
  • Familiarity with library technology standards and protocols such as FRBR, Z39.50, OAI/PHM, MARC, and RDA
  • Familiarity with XML and XSLT
  • Familiarity with EZproxy as well as remote access and authentication workflows
  • Experience creating scripts or programs to automate tasks using a high-level scripting and programming language such as JavaScript, Python, or PHP
  • Experience using APIs to integrate complementary library systems
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to effectively communicate technical issues and solutions to a diverse set of stakeholders
  • Commitment to fostering a diverse educational environment and workplace and an ability to work effectively with a diverse faculty and student population

Preferred qualifications

  • Academic library experience
  • Experience with Ex Libris Alma/Primo

9