Purdue University Libraries Diversity Residency Program 2008-2010

The Purdue University Libraries Diversity Residency Program is seeking two early career library and information science professionals who are committed to a career in academic librarianship. The Residency Program is designed to encourage and promote professional development and research contribution of entry-level librarians and to increase the diversity of professionals who will become partners in leading a transformation within the field. The two-year residency provides a broad-based awareness of foundational principles and practices in academic research librarianship as well as specialization experiences. For further information about the program, visit http://www.lib.purdue.edu/diversity/residency08.html

In year one, the Resident participates in a rotation through several libraries/units, based on Resident’s interests; assists in collaborative planning and assessment of libraries programs and services; and becomes familiar with research methods and analysis. In year two, the Resident engages in an in-depth, concentrated experience in an area or areas of specialization, and develops and implements a capstone project. Throughout the Residency Program, the Resident develops a cumulative portfolio of all work; may serve on system-wide committees and working groups within the Libraries or the University; and is strongly encouraged to engage in professional committees and organizations, present results of research or other professional initiatives, and write for professional publications. The Resident is matched with a mentor who will help acclimate the Resident to the Libraries environment, the campus community, and the Greater Lafayette community, while providing general guidance and support.

Requirements: Master's degree in library/information science (ALA-accredited), received within the past three years and by August 31, 2008. Possess a strong interest in developing a career in academic librarianship; demonstrated commitment to and knowledge of diversity through study or life experience; strong service orientation and commitment to library user needs; excellent communication and presentation skills; strong analytical skills and organizational abilities. Interest in and desire to develop research skills and methodologies. Candidates must be motivated, flexible team players, self-directed, comfortable with change.

Desired: Experience in a library environment, teaching, or in public service. Experience in developing and implementing programs to diverse users groups. Fluent in a second language.

Salary: $43,000 annually.

Status and benefits: Non-tenure-track faculty status and responsibilities at the rank of Visiting Assistant Professor of Library Science. Twelve-month appointment with annual vacation of 22 working days. TIAA-CREF retirement; must have vested, employer-funded contract from previous higher education employment for participation. Flexible benefit programs. Annual stipend to support participation in workshops, seminars, and other professional development offerings, including support to attend national conferences and symposia.

The Libraries and the University: The Purdue University Libraries have embarked upon a dynamic new role within the University, emphasizing a closer integration of the Libraries into the academic mission of Purdue. The Purdue University Libraries system, which consists of the Hicks Undergraduate Library, Archives and Special Collections, and 11 disciplinary libraries, has holdings of over 2.5 million volumes and provides extensive access to electronic resources. Staff totals more than 200, including 70 faculty and professionals. An innovative information literacy instruction program promotes collaboration with teaching faculty, employing multiple approaches to integrate active learning into the University curriculum and prepare students for lifelong learning. A dynamic research program is focused both within the discipline of library science and interdisciplinarily. The Libraries homepage may be viewed at www.lib.purdue.edu/ Purdue University is a national leader in the areas of business, engineering, science, and technology. Liberal Arts is now the second largest college at the University. Purdue is experiencing unprecedented growth in research funding and recently completed a $1.7 billion capital campaign. Purdue has the second largest public university international student enrollment in the nation. www.purdue.edu/ West Lafayette/Lafayette is a growing, vibrant, historic community located about one hour from downtown Indianapolis and less than two hours from Chicago. www.lafayette-in.com/

Application process: Letter stating interest and briefly discussing your ability to meet the requirements of the position, résumé, and list of references should be sent by e-mail or surface mail to: Thomas L. Haworth, Human Resources Administrator, Purdue University Libraries, 504 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2058, Phone: (765) 494-2899; email: thaworth@purdue.edu Review of applications begins February 15, 2008; start date August 11, 2008.

Purdue University is an equal access/ equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce.