STEM Librarian

The Pennsylvania State University Libraries invite applications and nominations for the position of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Librarian at the Penn State Harrisburg Library. The campus library seeks a proactive, creative, and inventive librarian to fill a tenure track, faculty position as part of Penn State University Libraries. The primary assignment of the STEM Librarian is to provide reference, instruction, and collection development with particular emphasis on supporting the information needs of Penn State Harrisburg’s School of Science, Engineering, and Technology, one of five academic schools at the College. Additionally, the STEM librarian will oversee collection management projects at the Harrisburg Campus Library and support data and technology initiatives with the University Libraries.

Major responsibilities of this assignment include: managing reference and general collections in the fields of engineering, computer science, mathematics, biology, environmental science, and general sciences; developing and presenting course-related bibliographic instruction and information literacy workshops in STEM liaison areas; outreach to STEM-related constituencies on campus; developing online library guides and tutorials for STEM faculty and students; providing instructive reference services both face-to-face and online; and partnering with other University librarians, the World Campus, and other units on campus and within the University to support learning and literacy in STEM disciplines. Responsibilities as collections and data coordinator include: assisting the Harrisburg library director and other librarians in collection analysis and assessment; coordinating major collection management projects; providing user support for citation management software and data management software; and collaborating in University-wide information/data initiatives. In addition, the STEM Librarian is expected to participate in library, college, and university governance. The STEM librarian is also expected to remain abreast of current developments in library and information sciences and devote time to research, scholarly activity, and service to the University, the public, and the profession. New faculty benefit from the strong mentoring program developed by the University Libraries to support new faculty in tenure-track appointments in fulfilling expectations in the areas of librarianship, research, and service. The University Libraries values diversity of thought, perspective, experience and people, and is actively committed to a culture of inclusion and respect. We encourage candidates to apply who thrive in a welcoming multicultural environment. More information on Penn State’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusive Excellence, can be found by visiting http://equity.psu.edu/psu-diversity-statement.

REQUIREMENTS: This position requires a Master of Library Science degree from an ALA-accredited institution (or equivalent); experience with reference and instruction; knowledge of STEM print and electronic information resources; excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work independently and collaboratively; strong commitment to diversity, equity, respect and inclusion; and the potential to achieve the requirements for tenure and promotion in the areas of librarianship, research, and service. Some evening and/or weekend work is required. Preferred qualifications include at least one year of post MLS experience with relevant reference and instruction experience at an academic or research library. An advanced degree or graduate level study in the sciences, technology, engineering or mathematics is also desirable. Early career librarians are encouraged to apply.

ENVIRONMENT: Penn State Harrisburg is located in Middletown, Pennsylvania. The campus is just east of Harrisburg, the state capital, and about one and one half hours from Philadelphia and Baltimore, and two hours from University Park and Washington, D.C. The three-story, 115,000-square-foot, technologically advanced academic research library includes 300,000 volumes, more than 200 journals, and 1 million microforms. With access to nearly 750 databases and 110,000 online full-text journals through the Penn State University Libraries, the facility provides extensive support to online and remote users. The college offers 35 baccalaureate degree programs, 25 master degree programs, and three doctoral programs. Penn State Harrisburg also offers the first two years of study leading to more than 160 baccalaureate majors offered throughout the Penn State system. There are approximately 5,000 students. More details about the Penn State Harrisburg Library can be found at http://www.hbg.psu.edu/library. Information about the college and surrounding area can be located at http://www.hbg.psu.edu//hbg/generalinfo.html.

The Penn State University Libraries are a strategic asset to Penn State, advancing intellectual discovery, information literacy, and lifelong learning, all in support of the University’s strategic goals in teaching, research, service, and outreach. The University Libraries is ranked among the top 10 research libraries in North America, according to the Association for Research Libraries investment rankings, and provides services at University Park and 22 other campus locations throughout Pennsylvania as well as online. We serve more than 6,400 faculty and 46,800 students at University Park, and approximately 97,500 students university-wide. More than 120 faculty librarians in the University Libraries benefit from extensive technological resources and research support services. Penn State, a land-grant institution, is a member of the Big Ten Academic Alliance and the Association of American Universities. The University Libraries is a member of the Association of Research Libraries, the Association of College and Research Libraries, and the international Center for Research Libraries. For information on the University Libraries Framework to Foster Diversity Strategic Plan, visit https://libraries.psu.edu/about/diversity.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Salary and rank are dependent upon qualifications and experience. Fringe benefits include liberal vacation, excellent insurance and health care coverage, State or TIAA retirement options, and educational privileges. In addition, faculty in the University Libraries are afforded funds for professional development travel annually. Faculty may be asked to travel as official representatives of the Libraries to certain events and those trips are reimbursed at full cost within limits established by the University.

Applications and all supporting materials must be submitted online. To apply, please visit https://libraries.psu.edu/STEMlibrarian. To be considered for the position, interested candidates should upload a letter of application, resume or C.V., and the names and contact information of three professional references (including email addresses). Review of applications will begin January 22, 2018 and continue until position is filled. Questions may be addressed to Lindsey Harter, Faculty Search Coordinator, at lap225@psu.edu.

Employment will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to minorities, women, veterans, disabled individuals, and other protected groups.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: For more about safety at Penn State, and to review the Annual Security Report which contains information about crime statistics and other safety and security matters, please go to www.police.psu.edu/clery/, which will also provide you with detail on how to request a hard copy of the Annual Security Report.