Job Posting: Science Librarian, York University Libraries

Come work instead of me!

Below is a posting for a 3-year contractually limited appointment in my unit. I'm chair of the search committee, so feel free to ask away with any questions about the position. I'll answer them to the best of my ability given the limitations of being on the committee.

As it happens, I'll no longer be the department head of Steacie Science & Engineering Library during the three year period of the appointment. For the first year, the successful candidate will be replacing me while I do a one-year acting Associate University Librarian appointment. The second year, I'll be back at Steacie but no longer as department head (my term is up) and the position will be replacing one of my colleagues while he is on sabbatical. The third year will be replacing me during my sabbatical.

This is a reposting:

Position Rank: Contractually Limited Appointment
Discipline/Field: Science Librarian
Home Faculty: Libraries
Home Department/Area/Division: Steacie Science and Engineering Library
Affiliation/Union: YUFA
Position Start Date: August 1, 2012
Position End Date: July 31, 2015

Science Librarian - Contractually Limited Appointment

York University Libraries seek a self-directed and public service-oriented Science Librarian based in the Steacie Science & Engineering Library.

York University is the leading interdisciplinary research and teaching university in Canada. York offers a modern, academic experience at the undergraduate and graduate level in Toronto - Canada's most international city. The third largest university in the country, York is host to a dynamic academic community of 62,000 students, faculty and staff, as well as 240,000 alumni worldwide. York's 10 Faculties and 28 research centres conduct ambitious, groundbreaking research that is interdisciplinary, cutting across traditional academic boundaries.

The Science Librarian will be responsible for faculty liaison, collection development and the delivery of information literacy programs for assigned disciplines and will participate in research consultations and outreach activities to departments and research centres. Responsibilities include selection of information resources, collection management and evaluation in such fields as engineering, computer science, mathematics, kinesiology and science and technology studies. He/she will work individually and as part of a team to develop and provide reference services and information literacy programs to York's community of users taking full advantage of the online learning and web environments. She/he will also participate in project and committee work for York University Libraries and the University. Some evening and weekend work is required.

Steacie Science and Engineering Library is one of four libraries within York University Libraries. The Steacie Science and Engineering Library attracts a half million visitors a year and provides specialized resources, and reference and information literacy sessions to the science, engineering, and health programs of York University. The Library takes pride in its extensive information literacy program and online learning support initiatives. Four full-time librarians and seven full-time support staff are currently based in the Steacie Science & Engineering Library.

Qualifications:

  • An ALA-accredited MLS or equivalent.
  • Educational background in or library experience relevant to science or engineering.
  • Knowledge of science and technology literature and reference resources, and awareness of emerging trends in scholarly communication.
  • Understanding of concepts, goals, and methods of information literacy instruction.
  • A potential for excellence in teaching and an ability to teach in a variety of settings and formats.
  • Demonstrated expertise with online content management platforms such as WordPress or LibGuides.
  • Strong client-centred service philosophy and evidence of professional initiative and leadership.
  • Ability to handle multiple responsibilities and projects concurrently.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively and collegially with a diversity of colleagues and clients.
  • Interest in research and professional development

This is a 3-year, contractually-limited appointment with the designation of Adjunct Librarian and is appropriate for a librarian with up to five years of post-MLS experience. Librarians and archivists at York University have academic status and are members of the York University Faculty Association bargaining unit (http://www.yufa.org/). Salary is commensurate with qualifications. The position is available from August 1, 2012. All York University positions are subject to budgetary approval.

York University is an Affirmative Action Employer. The Affirmative Action Program can be found on York's website at www.yorku.ca/acadjobs or a copy can be obtained by calling the affirmative action office at 416-736-5713. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents will be given priority. Temporary entry for citizens of the U.S.A. and Mexico may apply per the provisions of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

York University's resources include centres relating to gender equity, race and ethnic relations, sexual harassment, human rights, and wellness. York University encourages attitudes of respect and non-discrimination toward persons of all ethnic and religious groups, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

Deadline for the submission of applications is June 18, 2012. Applications should include a covering letter that relates qualifications to the requirements of the position, a current curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of three referees. Applications should be sent to:

Chair, Steacie Librarian Appointment Committee
York University Libraries
310 Scott Library
4700 Keele Street
Toronto, Ontario M3J 1P3
Fax: 416-736-5451
Email: yulapps@yorku.ca

Applications should be sent by mail, or by email or fax with a hardcopy following.

Posting End Date: June 18, 2012

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A few questions about the position.

So, if I were hired I'd be the department head for a year?

What types of projects are typical for the position?

Do you have a large number of applicants?

When do notifications for interviews go out? Somewhat related: I also applied to the Reference and Instruction Librarian position a Scott Library, would you know if they've selected people for interviews yet?

I'll probably have more questions down the road. I've been looking for a librarian job for almost two years now since I graduated from UWO with my MLIS. It has been incredibly frustrating!

For jobs in science, i would strongly recommend VRS Scienctific Recruitments.
For more info please visit: http://vrs-uk.net/