Description

The University of Alabama seeks a forward-thinking librarian with innovative ideas for learning-centered approaches to research and instructional services. Reporting to the Head of Information Services and Creative Media, this position works with campus faculty to develop instruction materials and library assignments and to identify needs and opportunities for outreach in assigned academic departments. The ideal candidate possesses a strong desire to teach and seeks out further knowledge in teaching and learning theories. They will be responsible for developing a robust instruction and outreach program, both in-person and online, while also offering software application training and support related to areas of liaison responsibilities for the disciplines assigned. This position also participates actively in instruction for the First-year Writing program. This position promotes collaboration and shared information experiences among students, assists with development and implementation of assessment initiatives aimed at improving services and collections, and creates and utilizes a variety of technologies and media for the advancement of library goals and objectives. This position collaborates with a broad range of stakeholders to conceptualize, define, and deliver contemporary services in support of cutting-edge approaches in instruction, research and reference, participating actively in in LibChat services and assessment activities. As part of the liaison role, this position will assist with instructional design initiatives and projects and continuously create and update digital learning objects in support of teaching and learning.  

This position may also provide outreach to non-academic units, such as student groups, to develop events and services that promote the University Libraries, and perform other duties/functions as requested. This position will work collaboratively within Gorgas Information Services and with Research Computing Services and Research Data Services to promote and integrate AI literacy, data services, data literacy, and data curation into library instruction, workshops, and digital learning objects across the disciplines. They will also participate in the data services workshop series program to develop and lead workshops throughout the academic year, such as qualitative data analysis software, citation managers, and data visualization.

The University of Alabama Libraries liaison program emphasizes outreach and seeking opportunities to work with campus faculty and students. Working in a team environment in the University Libraries, the successful candidate must be willing to continually learn, develop, and apply additional expertise through work related experiences and professional development opportunities. They will pursue grant writing opportunities and submission of projects relevant to the mission of University Libraries and the University of Alabama. They must also possess the ability to navigate change and ambiguity as they successfully solve the types of complex problems encountered in research settings.

Responsibilities of the position evolve as the library environment continues to change.

ENVIRONMENT:  The University of Alabama, The Capstone University, is the State of Alabama’s flagship public university, and the senior comprehensive doctoral level institution in Alabama.  UA enrolls over 38,320 students, with record breaking freshman classes for each of the past three years. UA has also increased graduate student enrollment by seven percent for Fall 2021. Ranked among the top 70 public universities in the nation by U.S. World and News Report’s annual college rankings for more than a decade, UA ranked 67th among public universities in 2020 rankings. UA made the Forbes list of America’s Best Employers for New Graduates in 2021. University of Alabama students continue to win prestigious national awards. Fifty-nine UA students have been named Goldwater Scholars. The University of Alabama has produced a total of 15 Rhodes Scholars, 16 Truman Scholars, 32 Hollins Scholars, and 11 Boren Scholars. The University of Alabama is a leader among public universities nationwide for enrollment of National Merit Scholars with more than 900 currently enrolled, the highest number in UA’s history. Under the leadership of President Stuart Bell, UA has launched a strategic planning process that includes an aggressive research agenda and expansion of graduate education.  There are currently 36 faculty who have received NSF Career awards, the nation’s most prestigious recognition of top performing young scientists. UA was also recognized as a top producer of Fulbright Scholars for the fifth time in six years in 2021-2022.  UA is located in Tuscaloosa, a metropolitan area of over 250,000, with a vibrant economy, a moderate climate, and reputation across the South as an innovative, progressive community with an excellent quality of life. Tuscaloosa provides easy access to mountains, several larger cities, and the beautiful Gulf Coast.

The University Libraries maintains memberships in the Association of Research Libraries, the Center for Research Libraries, the Coalition of Networked Information, centerNET, LYRASIS, HathiTrust, the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries, LOCKSS, the Network of Alabama Academic Libraries, and the Alabama Digital Preservation Network.  As a U.S. Government Documents Regional Depository since 1860, the UA Libraries serves Alabama libraries and the public.  The University Libraries homepage may be accessed at http://www.libraries.ua.edu

Prior to employment the successful candidate must pass a pre-employment background investigation.

SALARY/BENEFITS: 12-month tenure track faculty appointment at the Assistant or Associate Professor rank. Salary range is $65,000-$75,000, commensurate with qualifications, experience, and advanced degrees. Strong benefits, including professional development support, tuition fee waiver, and matching retirement contributions.

TO APPLY: Applications are accepted online only at https://facultyjobs.ua.edu. Click Search Positions, University Libraries in the drop down box.  Please include your application, Curriculum Vitae, Cover Letter, and names, addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses for three references, including one current supervisor.  

Position open until filled. Applications received by July 13, 2026, are assured of receiving full consideration.

The University of Alabama is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and is strongly committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff.  Applicants from a broad spectrum of people, including women, members of ethnic minorities, and disabled persons, are especially encouraged to apply. For questions regarding the search, contact Michael Arthur, Senior Associate Dean at [email protected]

THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

Requirements

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

•        Master’s degree in Library & Information Sciences from an ALA-accredited institution or doctoral degree.
•        Knowledge of reference/instructional services in an academic library setting.
•        Knowledge of trends and services in academic libraries to support undergraduate, graduate, and online education
•        Knowledge of current and emerging trends in information literacy instruction and information technologies.
•        Awareness of new and emerging technologies and how they can be utilized in an academic library.
•        Ability to successfully initiate, track, and manage projects.
•        Understanding of ways to market and promote instruction, collections, and services to assigned liaison areas and various programs.
•        Demonstration of ability, interest, and willingness to assume additional and/or new responsibilities, along with the ability to set and model high performance standards.
•        Proven interpersonal skills, evidenced by the ability to work cooperatively and maintain effective working relationshipswith colleagues, faculty, students, and staff. 
•        Ability to conceptualize, articulate, and implement short and long-range goals.
•        Excellent verbal and written communication, including associated skills such as listening, negotiating, and adapting. 
•        Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a complex and changing environment
•        Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively and complete tasks according to an established timeframe while managing multiple priorities and consistently meeting deadlines. 
•        Adaptability, flexibility, and willingness to engage in continuous learning to meet the changing needs of library users.
•        Ability to support and enhance a robust learning and working environment. 
•        Responsibilities change as the University Libraries continue to evolve.  
•        Ability to meet the requirements for tenure and promotion. 
•        Evidence of ability to engage in research, librarianship, and service consistent with the University’s and Libraries’ guidelines for faculty promotion and tenure.
•        Record of peer reviewed publications, scholarly presentations, and professional service.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

•                  Additional graduate degree.
•                  One to three years of experience providing reference/instructional services in an academic library setting.
•                  Teaching experience.
•                  Knowledge of funding sources and organizations for grant revenues.
•                  Experience submitting grant proposals.
•                  Experience developing LibGuides, tutorials, and digital learning objects.
•                  Experience with Blackboard or another Learning Management System.