JOB: Curator, Univ. of Minnesota

Curator, Children's Literature Research Collections (UL280)

University of Minnesota Twin Cities

Duties/Responsibilities: The University of Minnesota Libraries invites applications for visionary, strategic, and creative leadership for the position of Curator for the Children's Literature Research Collections (CLRC). The CLRC curator fosters collaborations within the University and actively seeks external partnerships to support and further the mission and activities of CLRC, the Libraries, and the University. The CLRC curator reports to the Elmer L. Andersen Director of Archives and Special Collections and is one of eleven archives and special collections units on the Twin Cities campus. Shared services and programs enable rich exhibits, online services, and collection support. Key responsibilities include engaging with instructors as partners in integrating special collections and archival research and methods into the curriculum; actively seeking books in first printing, manuscripts, art, correspondence with editors and personal papers (archival materials) to serve the current and future research, teaching, and learning needs of University of Minnesota clientele and broader community; and supervising staff, students, volunteers, and interns. The curator is an ex-officio member of the Board of the Friends of the Kerlan Collection. The successful candidate will be deeply engaged in achieving department goals and furthering Libraries' strategic directions; and will contribute to the profession through scholarship and service while working toward continuous appointment.

Required/Preferred Qualifications: Required Qualifications: ALA-accredited Masters degree in Library/Information Science or an advanced degree with relevant experience Knowledge of the history and research trends in the field of children's literature Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills Ability to work effectively both independently and in cooperation with colleagues in a service-oriented, collaborative environment Ability to work successfully with a Friends Board Demonstrated creativity, initiative, self-direction, and innovative thinking Flexibility and openness to change Demonstrated understanding of pedagogy and educational practices, current and emerging collection development issues and processes, and emerging service models Facility in use of technology Preferred Qualifications: Background or training in archival practices Significant relevant experience working in a special collection Experience in developing working partnerships with academic departments and other campus communities Experience working with digital collections Experience with assessing the effectiveness of library collections and services Demonstrated creative approaches to promoting library services Demonstrated involvement in professional activities Experience in grants development and fund-raising activities