Head Librarian - Emerging Technology and Systems

Overview

The Eugene McDermott Library seeks an innovative and collaborative Head Librarian for Library Systems to provide leadership and technical expertise for the Libraries’ integrated library systems and discovery environment. This position serves as the technical lead for the Libraries’ primary services platform, including Ex Libris Alma, Primo VE, and Leganto
, and related systems that support resource discovery, access, and operations. The Head Librarian for Library Systems leads system optimization, workflow improvement, integrations, and training, working closely with library colleagues, campus partners, vendors, and consortia organizations to deliver reliable, user-centered library services that support research, teaching, and student success. This position reports to the Dean of McDermott Library. Occasional weekend work could be required.

Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution and three (3) years of relevant supervisory experience in a library setting comparable to the level of Senior Librarian.

• Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with Ex Libris Alma, Primo VE, and/or Leganto.
• Experience with EZproxy or Open Athens and authentication protocols such as Shibboleth and SAML.
• Supervisory or project management experience in an academic library.
• Experience working in a consortial library environment.
• Knowledge of library metadata, technical services, and electronic resources workflows.
• Experience with APIs, web services, and system integrations.
• Working knowledge of scripting or programming languages (e.g., Python, PHP), databases, and SQL.
• Familiarity with library technology standards (e.g., Z39.50, OpenURL, NCIP, OAI).
• Commitment to user-centered services, accessibility, and continuous improvement.
• Alma/Primo administrator certification.

To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.

Essential Responsibilities

Systems Leadership and Operations

• Serve as technical lead for the Libraries’ integrated library services and discovery platforms (Alma, Primo VE, Leganto), including configuration, troubleshooting, maintenance, analytics, documentation, and training.
• Provide strategic oversight of discovery, remote authentication, and system integrations to ensure secure, efficient access to resources.
• Test, evaluate, and implement system upgrades and new features; assess workflows and recommend improvements.
• Administer remote authentication systems such as EZproxy.
• Oversee the management and integrity of library systems data, supporting discovery, access, and operational workflows across platforms.

Collaboration, Governance, and Supervision

• Chair or co-chair cross-functional library systems and discovery governance groups.
• Supervise systems support staff and coordinate the division of systems responsibilities.
• Collaborate across library departments to improve discoverability, usability, and accessibility of library systems.
• Communicate system changes and issues clearly and effectively to library stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary liaison with vendors and customer support partners.

Integration, Discovery, and User Experience

• Lead integrations with third-party systems and services (e.g., OCLC, GOBI, Tipasa, Archives Space).
• Analyze user behavior and search patterns within discovery platforms to improve system configuration, relevance, accessibility, and overall user experience.
• Collaborate with colleagues on metadata standards and practices (e.g., MARC, Dublin Core, RDA, BIBFRAME).
• Work with library technologists and campus IT on API-based integrations and custom solutions.
• Prepare reports and statistical data to support evidence-based decision making.

Professional Engagement

• Participate in library-wide planning and organizational initiatives.
• Serve on internal,…