Collection Development Librarian

SAIT’s Student Services department unlocks learner potential within a vibrant campus culture. Join a team driven by student success, offering holistic services from academic support and counselling to financial advising and social engagement.   The Opportunity The Reg Erhardt Library, SAIT Archives, and Copyright team provide essential learning resources and innovative support services to help students and programs achieve academic excellence in a rapidly evolving post-secondary environment. We are looking a Librarian that is forward-thinking, collaborative professional to lead the development of high-quality library collections that empower SAIT students, faculty, and programs to succeed. As Collection Development Librarian, you will: - Report to the Manager, Library, Archives, and Copyright - Lead the Collections service and the Collections & Technical Services team - Oversee planning, development, evaluation, and continuous improvement of library collections - Negotiate licensing agreements with vendors and publishers to ensure access to top-tier resources - Expected to engage in both Library and Student Services initiatives that enhance the student experience The Role

Collection Development 

Oversee all areas of the library’s Collections service that supports students, faculty, and program success

Lead the planning, development, maintenance, organization, access and discovery of the library's collections

Lead and oversee the work of the Collections and Technical Services team in the selection, acquisitions, management and evaluation of the library's collections  

Oversee and configure the library's discovery system to enhance resource accessibility and the user experience

Explore and integrate emerging technologies, such as AI functionality, into collection strategies

Contribute to budget planning for library collections with the Manager and oversee funding allocations for print and electronic collections

Conduct regular assessments and ensure collections remain current and relevant to SAIT programs.

Analyze and report on collection data to support evidence-based decisions to the Manager and as needed for program and institutional reporting 

Identify best practices and emerging collection trends and develop and maintain relevant collections management policies and procedures

Establish and maintain policies, procedures, and workflows for efficient collection management, in collaboration with the Coordinator of Technical Services

Evaluate and negotiate new electronic resources in consultation with relevant teams

Build and maintain relationships with vendors, publishers, library consortiums and other clients, negotiating contracts and pricing

Engage Library Liaisons in resource identification and collection review

Promote and build awareness of the library’s collections

Stay informed on trends and best practices in academic library collections and technologies through ongoing professional development

Library Liaison and Instruction 

Actively engage with academic programs, faculty and Academic Chairs in the assigned School(s) to support their curriculum maintenance and development

Develop and deliver information literacy instruction sessions, workshops, and presentations to the assigned liaison area(s) and other schools as needed, both in person and online 

Provide in-depth reference services to students, faculty, and staff in the assigned School and other areas as needed

Identify potential resources relevant to the assigned School(s)

Participate in the strategic direction and initiatives planning as part of the library’s leadership team 

Participate in library reporting for SAIT programs and other reports as needed and directed by the Manager

Information Desk and Other Initiatives

Provide circulation and reference services at the Information Desk

Collaborate with Librarians, Library Technicians, faculty and staff on other projects as needed

Participate on committees and working groups as needed

Required Qualifications

Minimum            

Master’s degree in Library Information Science/Studies from an American Library Association accredited program or equivalent

3 to 5 years of professional library or relevant experience  

Preferred

Experience with library collections planning and development

Experience working with vendors/publishers and license agreements

Experience or strong interest in teaching

Experience working on multiple projects, cross-functional teams, and managing competing priorities.

Experience working in large complex work environments and engaging with a range of users

Familiarity with library issues and trends, especially those related to collections, systems, and emerging technologies

Proficiency with technology, integrated library systems, web development tools and e-resources (e.g. LibGuides, Learning management systems, eBooks)

A demonstrated awareness and commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion

Required Skills

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build and maintain relationships with vendors and other departments

Demonstrated supervisory and coaching skills including the ability to foster trusting and productive relationships amongst staff

Ability to understand and synthesize complex information

Strong organizational and planning skills

Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills

Capacity to thrive in an environment of change and respond effectively to shifting needs and priorities