Director--University Library System

Job Description

Job Description

St. Ambrose University seeks a Director of the University's Library System. This is a full-time, 12-month position. The Director of the University Library System leads and administers the University library System (and archives) across and the Mount Mercy and St. Ambrose University campuses. If and when additional institutions are added to the network, the Director will oversee the integration of those affiliate libraries into the system. Core functions include: strategic oversight of the libraries' programs, services, and collections; direct supervision of associate directors and direct supervision of select library employees (i.e., on the SAU campus); preparation of budgets and the forecasting of expenditures; facilities management work; and collaboration with campus constituencies to ensure alignment with the University's curriculum, mission, and vision. Serves as a faculty member at the anticipated rank of Associate Professor.

Key Responsibilities

• Provides leadership and guidance to the University library system, currently distributed across the St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy campuses (as well as the archives on each campus). Ensures that the campus libraries and archives operate under a common and consistent set of policies, procedures, rules, and expectations.

• Aligns library collections, services, and programs with the university's curriculum. Works to support the university's mission and vision through library initiatives.

• Works to ensure that a consistently high-quality experience is provided to all library users across all campuses and service modalities.

• Directly supervises and evaluates associate librarians and a subset of library employees. Hires, and (as necessary) disciplines or terminates library employees in consultation with the Office of Academic Affairs and the Office of Human Resources.

• Prepares library budgets and forecasts expenditures in consultation with the Office of Academic Affairs and the Office of General Accounting. Oversee library spending.

• Monitors library facilities and initiates action as necessary.

• Evaluates the library's effectiveness and efficiency. Embraces a program of continual quality improvement based on data.

• In consultation with library employees, work to suggest and encourage appropriate plans for professional development for library personnel.

• Represents the library in professional organizations, consortia, etc.

• Seeks development opportunities in consultation with the Office of Advancement.

• Cultivates collaboration, cohesiveness, and respect among library staff working across a multi-campus library system.

• Develops pathways for leadership advancement across a multi-campus library system.

• Works to recognize potential efficiencies across a multi-campus library system.

• Performs other duties as requested by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Qualifications :

• Graduate degree from an ALA-accredited institution or an ALA-approved foreign equivalent.

• Additional master's degree OR doctorate (preferred).

• 10 years of professional experience in an academic or research library.

• 5 years of senior-level administrative experience in an academic or research library.

• Administrative experience in a multi-library system is preferred but not required.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan with employer match
• Tuition remission benefits
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• A supportive and collaborative work environment
• Access to campus amenities, cultural events, and recreational facilities

St. Ambrose University and its affiliate campuses are an inclusive, Catholic and diocesan community of learners empowering all members of that community to act courageously, to seek wisdom through faith and reason, to work for justice and mercy, and to lead lives of service. St. Ambrose is an equal opportunity employer.

Interested individuals should apply online at by submitting a letter of application, vitae or resume, and contact information for three professional references. Applications received by March 6, 2026 will be ensured full consideration. See for further information. EOE.