The Asia Library of the University of Michigan is one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of East Asian materials in North America, and our Japanese Collection is one of the top collections in the nation. The University of Michigan Library seeks a Japanese Studies Librarian with a strong background in collection management in Japanese Studies, with deep understanding of Japanese Culture. The Japanese Studies Librarian will assume direct responsibility for the development and maintenance of the Japanese Collection, evaluation and selection of information sources related to Japanese Studies, reference and research consultation in supporting instructional programs designed for Japanese Studies, and serve as liaison with the Center for Japanese Studies and respond to the Center’s needs in coordination of its activities and projects.
RESPONSIBILITIES
As a member of Asia Library, the individual hired for this position will provide academic support services to faculty and students who are engaged in the Japanese Studies. Under the general direction of the Head of Asia Library, the successful candidate will assume these responsibilities:
Collection Development and Acquisitions
- Provide leadership for collection development and ongoing collection management of the Japanese Collection. Establish and maintain collection policies and priorities for the Japanese Collection.
- Identify budget needs for collection and make recommendations to the Head of Asia Library for budget allocation for the Japanese Collection. Manage and monitor the appropriate accounts.
- Partner with the Head and the Coordinator for Asia Library Technical Services to establish cataloging priorities for Japanese materials.
- Participate in fund-raising for the Japanese Collection. Seek and encourage donors of funds and materials relating to Japanese studies as appropriate.
Reference and Information Services
- Provide instruction and reference services to faculty and students, as well as patrons outside the university community on topics related to Japanese Studies.
- Publicize significant acquisitions in Asian and Japanese Studies in various formats.
- Receive official guests as requested. Provide assistance for visiting Japanese Studies scholars and librarians.
- Maintain professional contacts with libraries and research institutions in Japan as well as the community of East Asian or Japanese collections in North America. Represent the University Library in regional and national organizations of Japanese collections.
QUALIFICATIONS
- ALA accredited Master’s degree in Library or Information Science, or an equivalent combination of a relevant advanced degree and experience.
- Experience providing reference services to faculty and students. Knowledge of scholarly resources for Japanese studies, reference tools, and electronic resources.
- Up-to-date knowledge of library application of computer technology and knowledge of computing in the Japanese language and script.
- Proficiency in communicating with Japanese libraries, institutions, publishers, vendors, and donors in both written and spoken Japanese.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively and collegially with a staff of diverse cultural, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Previous work experience in an academic or research library is preferred.
- Advanced academic degree in Japanese Studies.
BENEFITS, RANK, and SALARY
Final rank and salary are dependent on experience and qualifications. Professional positions receive 24 days of vacation a year, 15 days of sick leave a year with provisions for extended benefits, as well as opportunities for professional development and travel.
Further information regarding benefits can be found at http://benefits.umich.edu/benefitgroups/faculty.html .
RETIREMENT OPTIONS:
TIAA-CREF and Fidelity Investments options available.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Email a cover letter and CV as attachments to libhumres@umich.edu addressed to:
Jane Havens
Head of Library Human Resources
404 Hatcher Graduate Library North
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1190
For further information, call 734-764-2546 between 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Monday-Friday.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Review of applications will begin on 12/10/11 and continue until the position is filled.
The University of Michigan is a non-discriminatory, affirmative action employer.
Jidong Yang
Head, Asia Library
University of Michigan
913 S. University Avenue
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1205
Phone: 734-936-2354
Fax: 734-647-2885
