University Libraries
seeks applicants for dean

The University Libraries includes a central library and five subject libraries at University Park and a library at each of 20 Penn State campuses throughout the Commonwealth. Collections include more than 3.75 million volumes, as well as extensive holdings of maps, microforms, government publications, archives, computer databases and audio-visual materials. There are approximately 390 staff, including 87 librarians with full faculty status. The dean has primary responsibility for budgets, strategic planning, personnel resources, leadership of the Libraries' faculty, library automation, fund raising and the development of collections, services and programs.

Candidates should have high-level management experience in a research library, based on in-depth experience in librarianship and including significant experience with integrated library systems and networked information technologies; an understanding of the major issues and trends affecting research libraries; strong leadership skills and the ability to promote cooperation in a multi-campus, collegial and consortia environment; and the ability to support the teaching, research and service missions of a large public university and the intellectual and service missions of its libraries. The successful candidate should have the vision to lead the University Libraries into the 21st century, a record of innovation and demonstrated record of success in fund-raising. It is expected that the dean will have a commitment to and sustained achievement in scholarship and research in librarianship or another discipline, commensurate with a tenured appointment in the University Libraries or one of the University's academic units; and national standing in the profession. A master of library science degree or its equivalent from an accredited program is required; an additional advanced degree is desired.

Nominations, applications and inquiries should be submitted to Susan Welch, chair of the Search Committee for the Dean of the University Libraries, The Pennsylvania State University, 201 Old Main, Box PSI, University Park, Pa. 16802. Applications and nominations will be reviewed beginning Dec. 15, and will be accepted until the position is filled. If you would like more information on the University Libraries, please refer to the Web pages at http://www.libraries.psu.edu.

In addition to Welch, other search committee members include: Deborah F. Atwater, head of the Department of African and African American Studies and associate professor of speech communications; Michael E. Broyles, distinguished professor of music; William D. Enscore, undergraduate student; Bonnie J. MacEwan, coordinator of collection development and associate librarian; Deena J. Morganti, associate librarian, Penn State Berks Campus; Linda R. Musser, head of Earth and Mineral Sciences Library and associate librarian; Kaushik Parthasarathi, undergraduate student; Jorge R. Schement, associate dean for graduate studies and research, College of Communications; Harold B. Shill III, head of Heindel Library, Penn State Harrisburg, and librarian; Sandra K. Stelts, library specialist; Leon J. Stout, librarian, University Archives/Penn State Room; Sara L. Whildin, associate librarian, Penn State Delaware County Campus; and Carol A. Wright, associate librarian, General Reference.