5 Collection Development Librarian Job Description Templates and Examples

Collection Development Librarians are responsible for curating, managing, and maintaining a library's collection of resources, ensuring they meet the needs of the community or institution they serve. They evaluate, select, and acquire materials such as books, digital resources, and other media while considering budget constraints and user demands. Junior roles focus on assisting in material selection and cataloging, while senior roles involve strategic planning, policy development, and overseeing collection management teams.

1. Assistant Collection Development Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking an Assistant Collection Development Librarian to join our dynamic library team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this role, you will support the strategic development and management of our library's collections, ensuring that we meet the diverse needs of our community and promote equitable access to information resources.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in the evaluation, selection, and acquisition of library materials across various formats and subjects, ensuring alignment with the library's collection development policies.
  • Conduct regular assessments of existing collections to identify gaps and recommend enhancements based on user needs and emerging trends.
  • Collaborate with faculty, students, and community members to gather input on collection priorities and to promote library resources and services.
  • Utilize data analytics and user feedback to inform collection decisions and develop targeted outreach strategies.
  • Participate in the management of budget allocations for collection development, ensuring fiscal responsibility and effective resource utilization.
  • Stay current with library and information science trends, including digital resources and open access initiatives.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program.
  • Demonstrated understanding of collection development principles and practices.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects effectively.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to user-centered service.

Preferred:

  • Experience working in a library setting, particularly in collection development or academic librarianship.
  • Familiarity with data analysis tools and collection management systems.
  • Knowledge of current trends in publishing, digital resources, and scholarly communication.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in using integrated library systems (ILS) and online databases.
  • Experience with collection analytics tools and methodologies.
  • Familiarity with library classification systems and metadata standards.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in library services and collections.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
  • Proactive approach to problem-solving and a willingness to embrace new challenges.
  • Passion for fostering a vibrant and welcoming library community.

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Flexible work schedule and remote work options.
  • Professional development opportunities and support for continuing education.
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
  • Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Location

This is a remote position within [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply, even if you do not meet every single qualification. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valuable to us!

2. Collection Development Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a knowledgeable and proactive Collection Development Librarian to join our team. In this fully remote role, you will play a critical role in shaping and enhancing our library's collection by selecting, acquiring, and managing resources that meet the diverse needs of our community. Your expertise will help ensure that our collection remains relevant, accessible, and reflective of the values of our organization.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct ongoing assessment of the library's collection to identify gaps and opportunities for growth
  • Develop and implement collection development policies and procedures that align with the library's strategic goals
  • Collaborate with library staff and community stakeholders to gather input on collection needs and preferences
  • Evaluate and select materials in various formats, including print, digital, and multimedia, ensuring a balanced and inclusive collection
  • Manage vendor relationships and oversee the acquisition process, including budget management and resource allocation
  • Monitor trends in publishing and information access to inform collection strategies
  • Provide training and support to library staff on collection development practices and resources
  • Engage with patrons to understand their needs and promote the library's collection

Required Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent
  • 2+ years of experience in collection development or library management
  • Strong understanding of current trends in library collections, including digital resources and emerging technologies
  • Proficient in using library management systems and collection analysis tools
  • Excellent research and analytical skills to assess collection performance and usage
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with diverse and inclusive collection development practices
  • Familiarity with budgeting and financial management in a library context
  • Knowledge of community engagement strategies to enhance collection relevance
  • Experience with vendor negotiations and contract management

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficient in library management software (e.g., ILS systems, discovery platforms)
  • Experience with data analysis tools for collection development
  • Familiarity with digital resource platforms and e-book acquisitions

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively engage with stakeholders
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities
  • Ability to adapt to changing technologies and library practices
  • Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in library services and collections

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Flexible work schedule
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Health and wellness programs
  • Retirement savings plan
  • 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 is a fully remote position.

3. Senior Collection Development Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a strategic and experienced Senior Collection Development Librarian to join our innovative library team. In this role, you will lead the development and management of our library collections, ensuring that they meet the diverse needs of our community while promoting equitable access to information and resources.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement collection development policies and procedures that align with the library's mission and goals.
  • Conduct thorough assessments of current collections and identify gaps and opportunities for new acquisitions.
  • Collaborate with library staff, faculty, and community stakeholders to understand evolving information needs and preferences.
  • Oversee budgeting for collection development initiatives, ensuring prudent allocation of resources.
  • Utilize data analytics and usage statistics to inform collection decisions and strategy.
  • Advocate for diverse, inclusive, and culturally relevant materials within the library's collections.
  • Supervise and mentor junior librarians and support staff in collection development practices.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program.
  • 5+ years of experience in collection development or related library services.
  • Strong knowledge of current trends in library materials, technology, and information access.
  • Demonstrated experience in managing budgets and financial resources effectively.

Preferred:

  • Experience with data-driven collection assessment tools and methodologies.
  • Familiarity with diverse collections, including multicultural and multilingual resources.
  • Proven track record of collaboration with academic or public library stakeholders.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficient in library management systems (e.g., ILS, discovery tools) and collection analysis software.
  • Experience with digital resources and electronic collections management.
  • Ability to leverage technology for improving access to library materials.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on user-centered approaches.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in library practices.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and build positive relationships across teams.

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Full-time offers include:

  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Retirement plan with employer matching contributions.
  • Professional development opportunities and support for continuing education.
  • Flexible work arrangements and remote work options.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by applicable law. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply, even if they do not meet all the listed qualifications.

Location

This is a remote position within [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

4. Head of Collection Development Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a strategic and innovative Head of Collection Development to lead our efforts in curating, managing, and enhancing our collection strategy. This role is vital in shaping our collection policies, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and driving engagement with our diverse user base while leveraging data-driven insights to enhance our offerings.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute a comprehensive collection development strategy that aligns with the organization’s mission and goals.
  • Lead a team of collection specialists, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and professional development.
  • Analyze and assess collection usage data to inform decision-making and optimize resource allocation.
  • Engage with stakeholders across departments to ensure the collection meets user needs and enhances their experience.
  • Establish best practices for collection curation, acquisition, and management, ensuring adherence to industry standards and ethical considerations.
  • Drive initiatives for collection promotion and outreach, leveraging digital platforms to increase visibility and access.
  • Monitor trends in collection development, emerging technologies, and user preferences to adapt strategies accordingly.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master’s degree in Library Science, Information Science, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in collection development or library management, with a proven track record of leadership.
  • Strong understanding of collection management principles, trends, and best practices.
  • Experience with data analysis and usage metrics to inform collection decisions.

Preferred:

  • Experience in a senior role within a library or information organization.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and implement innovative collection strategies.
  • Familiarity with digital collections and emerging technologies in the library landscape.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency with library management systems and digital resource platforms.
  • Experience with data analytics tools and software for collection assessment.
  • Familiarity with digital content management and preservation practices.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging with a variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong leadership and team-building abilities, with a focus on mentorship and professional growth.
  • Creative problem solver, able to navigate complex challenges with innovative solutions.
  • Passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion within collection development.

Benefits and Perks

Salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]

As a full-time employee, you will enjoy:

  • Flexible work hours and a fully remote working environment.
  • Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, and vision.
  • Generous paid time off and holiday policies.
  • Retirement savings plan with company matching.
  • Professional development opportunities and funding for ongoing education.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences, and we encourage individuals who may not meet all qualifications to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

Note: Your application may be subject to data privacy regulations. By submitting your application, you consent to our data processing terms as outlined in our privacy policy.

5. Director of Collection Development Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are looking for a strategic and innovative Director of Collection Development to spearhead our collection strategies and initiatives. This role is crucial for shaping our library's collection policies, ensuring alignment with our mission, and maximizing the impact of our resources. You will lead a talented team in evaluating, selecting, and acquiring materials that resonate with our diverse community, while also leveraging data-driven approaches to enhance collection effectiveness.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive collection development strategy that aligns with the organization's mission and community needs
  • Lead and mentor a team of collection development professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement
  • Conduct analysis of current collection trends and usage data to inform acquisition decisions and policy development
  • Establish and maintain relationships with vendors, publishers, and other stakeholders to enhance collection offerings
  • Oversee the budget for collection acquisitions, ensuring optimal allocation of resources
  • Design and execute outreach initiatives to engage the community in collection development processes

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Library Science or a related field
  • 7+ years of experience in collection development within a library or information organization
  • Proven track record of strategic planning and execution in collection management
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data to guide decision-making

Preferred:

  • Experience with digital collections and emerging technologies in library services
  • Familiarity with diverse cultural perspectives and community engagement strategies
  • Leadership experience in managing cross-functional teams

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in integrated library systems (ILS) and collection management tools
  • Experience with data analysis software and reporting tools
  • Understanding of current trends in publishing and information dissemination

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative approach to leadership
  • Ability to navigate complex organizational structures and foster partnerships
  • Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in collection development
  • Innovative mindset with a passion for enhancing user experiences through collections

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Full-time employees can expect a robust benefits package including:

  • Flexible work hours and fully remote work options
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Wellness programs and resources

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to creating a diverse environment and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to apply, even if they do not meet every qualification listed.

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