5 Acquisitions Librarian Job Description Templates and Examples | Himalayas

5 Acquisitions Librarian Job Description Templates and Examples

Acquisitions Librarians are responsible for managing the selection, procurement, and acquisition of library materials, ensuring that collections meet the needs of their patrons. They collaborate with vendors, negotiate contracts, and oversee budgets to build and maintain a library's resources. Junior roles focus on assisting with procurement and cataloging, while senior roles involve strategic planning, team leadership, and overseeing acquisition policies.

1. Assistant Acquisitions Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are looking for a detail-oriented and proactive Assistant Acquisitions Librarian to join our dynamic team. In this fully remote role, you will play a critical part in supporting the acquisitions process, ensuring the timely procurement of resources that meet the needs of our diverse user community. Your expertise will help shape our collection development strategy and enhance the accessibility of resources.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in the evaluation and selection of library materials, including books, journals, and digital resources, in collaboration with faculty and staff
  • Maintain and update the acquisitions database, ensuring accurate record-keeping and inventory management
  • Coordinate with vendors and publishers to negotiate pricing and terms for new acquisitions
  • Monitor and analyze budget expenditures to ensure adherence to financial guidelines
  • Conduct market research to identify emerging resources and trends in library acquisitions
  • Facilitate communication between stakeholders to assess resource needs and gather feedback
  • Participate in collection development meetings, providing insights and recommendations based on data analysis

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent experience in acquisitions and collection development
  • 1-3 years of experience in library acquisitions or related roles
  • Proficiency in library management systems and electronic resource management tools
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data for decision-making

Preferred:

  • Experience with vendor negotiation and management
  • Familiarity with emerging trends in digital resources and open access
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in library services

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficient in using integrated library systems (ILS) such as Alma, Sierra, or similar
  • Experience with data analysis tools and reporting software
  • Familiarity with e-book platforms and digital resource management

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment
  • Proactive approach to problem-solving and resource management
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Passionate about enhancing library services and user experience

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Flexible work hours
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Health and wellness programs
  • Generous paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement savings plan with company match

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

Note: We encourage applicants who do not meet 100% of the listed qualifications to apply. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valuable to us.

2. Acquisitions Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and strategic Acquisitions Librarian to join our team in a fully remote capacity. In this role, you will play a critical part in managing and developing our library's collections by identifying, selecting, and acquiring resources that support our users' needs and our organizational mission.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct comprehensive market research to identify potential acquisitions that align with user needs and organizational goals.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with vendors, publishers, and other stakeholders to negotiate favorable terms and pricing for library resources.
  • Analyze and curate collection development policies to ensure a diverse and inclusive collection that reflects the interests of our community.
  • Collaborate with library staff and faculty to assess current collections and identify gaps that can be filled through acquisitions.
  • Manage the acquisitions budget, including tracking expenditures and forecasting future needs.
  • Utilize library management systems to process and track acquisitions, ensuring accurate record-keeping and reporting.

Required Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Library Science or a related field from an accredited institution.
  • 2+ years of experience in acquisitions, collection development, or related library services.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of library collection management principles and procedures.
  • Strong analytical skills and experience with data-driven decision-making.
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with a focus on building collaborative relationships.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with library management systems (e.g., Ex Libris, OCLC) and data analytics tools.
  • Familiarity with budgeting and financial management in a library context.
  • Knowledge of current trends in academic publishing and resource sharing.
  • Experience working in a remote or distributed team environment.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
  • Self-motivated with a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in library services and collections.
  • Adaptability to changing technologies and workflows in the library environment.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Full time offers may include:

  • Flexible work schedule and remote work arrangements.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) plan with company matching.
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
  • Professional development opportunities and support for continuing education.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, and we welcome applicants who may not meet all the listed qualifications to apply.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

3. Senior Acquisitions Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are looking for a detail-oriented and strategic Senior Acquisitions Librarian to join our dynamic library team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. This role is essential for managing the procurement of resources and ensuring that our library's collection meets the diverse needs of our community. You will leverage your expertise in acquisitions processes and vendor relationships to enhance our library's offerings, driving access to vital information and resources.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the acquisitions process for a wide range of materials, including books, journals, and electronic resources, ensuring adherence to budgetary constraints and collection development policies.
  • Establish and maintain strong relationships with vendors and publishers, negotiating favorable terms and conditions to optimize resource acquisition.
  • Conduct ongoing analysis of collection usage and trends, making data-informed decisions to improve resource selection and allocation.
  • Collaborate with library staff across departments to assess user needs and align acquisitions with institutional goals and community interests.
  • Oversee the training and development of junior staff in acquisitions processes, fostering a collaborative and innovative team environment.
  • Implement best practices in collection management, metadata creation, and cataloging of newly acquired materials.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Library Science or Information Science from an ALA-accredited program.
  • 5+ years of experience in library acquisitions or collection development, with a proven track record of successful vendor negotiations.
  • Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis tools to assess collection usage and inform decision-making.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred:

  • Experience with integrated library systems (ILS) and electronic resource management systems.
  • Familiarity with current trends in library acquisitions, including open access and digital resource procurement.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor library staff in a collaborative environment.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in library management software such as OCLC, Alma, or similar systems.
  • Experience with data analytics tools and library databases to support acquisitions decisions.
  • Strong knowledge of copyright and licensing issues related to library acquisitions.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, with a focus on stakeholder engagement.
  • Strong interpersonal abilities to foster collaboration among diverse teams and departments.
  • A proactive approach to problem-solving with a commitment to continuous improvement in library services.
  • Ability to adapt in a rapidly changing environment while maintaining a user-centered focus.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE].

Additional benefits may include:

  • Generous paid time off and flexible scheduling options.
  • Professional development opportunities, including conferences and workshops.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
  • Retirement savings plan with company matching.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by applicable law. We strongly encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Location

This is a hybrid position, requiring candidates to work from the office at least 3 days a week at [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

We encourage applicants to apply even if they don't meet all the requirements listed. Your unique experiences and perspectives could be a valuable addition to our team.

4. Head of Acquisitions Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Acquisitions to lead our efforts in identifying, negotiating, and integrating acquisitions that align with our growth objectives at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this critical role, you will be responsible for developing and executing acquisition strategies, managing stakeholder relationships, and driving the due diligence process to ensure successful outcomes.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement comprehensive acquisition strategies that align with the overall business objectives of [$COMPANY_NAME].
  • Identify and evaluate potential acquisition targets through market research, competitive analysis, and networking.
  • Lead negotiations with target companies to structure deals that maximize value and align with our strategic goals.
  • Oversee the due diligence process, coordinating cross-functional teams to assess financial, operational, and strategic fit.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including finance, legal, and operations, to ensure successful integration of acquired entities.
  • Monitor industry trends and maintain relationships with key stakeholders to identify emerging acquisition opportunities.
  • Report to executive leadership on acquisition progress, key metrics, and strategic recommendations.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • 10+ years of experience in mergers and acquisitions, corporate development, or related fields.
  • Proven track record of successfully leading acquisition processes from strategy formulation through to integration.
  • Strong financial acumen and proficiency in evaluating business models and valuation methodologies.
  • Exceptional negotiation skills and experience managing complex deal structures.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

Preferred:

  • Experience in [specific industry relevant to the company], with a deep understanding of market dynamics.
  • Master's degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
  • Experience in developing and implementing post-acquisition integration plans.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in financial modeling, valuation analysis, and data interpretation.
  • Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies.
  • Ability to leverage CRM systems for managing acquisition pipelines and stakeholder communications.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong leadership and mentorship skills, with a focus on team development and collaboration.
  • Proactive problem-solving mindset with a strategic approach to decision-making.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with changing priorities.
  • Authentic and transparent communication style, fostering trust and engagement.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Equity participation
  • Comprehensive health and wellness programs
  • Retirement savings plans with company matching
  • Flexible working hours and work-from-home arrangements
  • Professional development and learning opportunities

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

5. Director of Library Acquisitions Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Director of Library Acquisitions to lead our library's collection development efforts. This role is crucial in shaping the library's acquisitions strategy, ensuring that our collections are diverse, relevant, and aligned with the needs of our community. You will collaborate with various stakeholders to curate and manage resources that foster learning and research.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement collection development policies that align with the library's mission and community needs.
  • Oversee the acquisitions budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources to maximize collection quality and accessibility.
  • Lead a team of acquisitions specialists, providing mentorship and fostering a collaborative environment to achieve departmental goals.
  • Establish and maintain relationships with publishers, vendors, and other stakeholders to negotiate favorable terms and access to resources.
  • Monitor and analyze usage statistics and trends to inform collection decisions and strategies.
  • Conduct regular assessments of the collection to identify gaps and opportunities for growth, ensuring a balanced representation of diverse voices and perspectives.
  • Collaborate with library staff to integrate new acquisitions into library services and programs effectively.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in library acquisitions or collection development, with progressive leadership responsibility.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of current trends in publishing and collection management.
  • Strong analytical skills and experience with budget management.

Preferred:

  • Experience with digital resources and electronic licensing.
  • Familiarity with diversity, equity, and inclusion principles in collection development.
  • Strong networking skills and proven ability to build collaborative relationships.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in library management systems and acquisitions software.
  • Experience with data analysis tools to assess collection usage and impact.
  • Knowledge of cataloging standards and preservation practices.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
  • Strong leadership abilities, with a focus on team development and empowerment.
  • Innovative mindset with a passion for enhancing library services and collections.
  • Commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive library environment.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Comprehensive health benefits
  • Retirement plans
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Generous paid time off policies

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

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