UBC Library

The University of British Columbia Library is one of the largest academic libraries in Canada, ranked 14^th among the Association of Research Libraries. The Library consistently ranks among the top university research libraries in North America. UBC Library has 14 branches and divisions, two campuses (Vancouver and Kelowna), one off-site hospital library, and the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre – a multi-purpose teaching and learning facility. 

The Library’s collection of over 7M items includes 1.4M ebooks, 229,020 electronic journals, 850,000 maps, audio, DVD/video and graphic materials, and 1,703 bibliographic and fulltext databases.

More than 300 knowledgeable employees – librarians, management and professional staff, support staff and student staff – provide users with the excellent resources and services that they need to further their research, teaching and learning.

The Chapman Learning Commons is a collaborative and innovative learning space that brings together learners of all types –students, faculty staff and community members – making the most of technology to support and enhance learning and teaching at UBC.   More information about the Chapman Learning Commons can be found under http://learningcommons.ubc.ca/

The UBC Library Strategic Plan 2010-2015 can be viewed at www.library.ubc.ca/strategicplan/.

OVERVIEW OF THE POSITION

Reporting to the Associate Director, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre (IKBLC) and working with the Library and Learning Centre staff, and stakeholders across the University, the Managing Librarian, Chapman Learning Commons provides leadership and management, directly and through staff, for all areas of Learning Commons operations including development of partnerships, programs, services, policies, budget and assessment so that it contributes successfully to the vision and mission of the UBC Library, IKBLC and stakeholders across campus.

Qualifications

A graduate degree from an ALA accredited program in library and information science is required. Experience in developing and providing information services to a broad community of users, preferably in a learning commons or related context. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as experience teaching individuals and groups, are required. General knowledge of online information resources and systems, as well as an understanding of current trends in student learning is also required to be successful in this role. Experience in developing partnerships and evidence of successful collaboration around the provision of programs and services is a key asset. To be organized, able to contribute to the operationalization of the visions of the Learning Commons and the IKBLC, able to successfully manage a diverse set of responsibilities, and possess a demonstrated commitment to the provision of information resources and services to benefit a wide and diverse community of users. Ability to demonstrate flexibility, innovation and to work as a member of a team.

Duties:

• Responsible for the planning, implementation and assessment of learning support programs and services offered through the IKBLC, with a focus on the Chapman Learning Commons. Contributes to assessment of programs and services in other related areas;
• Manages the Learning Commons staff and student team, including performance reviews, development and review of job descriptions, and annual setting of goals and objectives; participates in unit recruitment;
• Supervises the on-going development and maintenance of the Learning Commons website and virtual services using a variety of software including open source products;
• Provides instruction for students, staff, faculty and community members, using a variety of methodologies (e.g. in-person workshops, web-based tutorials);
• Provides in-person and virtual information services through the Chapman Learning Commons and other service points;
• Applies new technologies such as Web 2.0 to the development of resources and delivery of services;
• Working with Learning Commons professional staff team, collaboratively designs and delivers staff training related to Learning Commons services, including the help desk;
• Liaises with colleagues across the UBC Library, units within the IKBLC, UBC departments and programs, and other organizations and community groups in the development of services and partnerships;
• Monitors developments and trends in learning commons service models;
• Monitors changes in teaching and learning activities across University faculties;
• Participates in the planning and implementation of policies, procedures and services that support the goals of the Learning Commons, IKBLC and UBC Library;
• Develops an ongoing assessment plan for programs and services provided through the Learning Commons;
• Coordinates and supervises staff, services and special projects as required.

Working Relationships: 

Reports to and works closely with the Assistant Director, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, and collaborates with UBC Library units, other IKBLC units, UBC departments and other institutions and organizations in the development of programs and services for Learning Commons and IKBLC users.

Term of appointment and salary

This is a fixed term opportunity from October 2014 – November 2015.

We are seeking applications from Librarians with up to 5 years of experience. However, all internal candidates will be considered regardless of years of experience and are encouraged to apply. Salary will be commensurate with experience and academic/professional qualifications.

UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. The University especially welcomes applications from visible minority groups, women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, and others with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities.We encourage all qualified applicants to apply. However, Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.

Applications will include: a letter of application that includes a statement of citizenship/immigration status and indicates the candidate’s education, training and work experience in the areas listed above; a detailed and current curriculum vitae.

To view the complete job description and to submit an application, please visit the UBC Careers page at http://facultycareers.ubc.ca/19054 by midnight on September 11, 2014.