Lead Librarian for Academic Engagement

Full-time

The Lead Librarian for Academic Engagement will be a pivotal figure in shaping the academic and social experience of Southern Virginia University students. This role goes beyond traditional library duties, focusing on instruction, research services, community engagement, and academic programming. The successful candidate will not only provide high-level research support and instruction but also design and implement programs that foster a sense of belonging and intellectual community among our students. A primary goal of this position is to contribute to student retention by ensuring the library is a vital hub for learning and connection.

Responsibilities
  • Instruction and Research Services:
    • Develop and deliver engaging library instruction sessions for various courses and disciplines.
    • Provide expert research assistance to students and faculty.
  • Community Engagement and Programming:
    • Plan, promote, and execute innovative events and programs that promote information literacy, including the informed use of AI, scholarly exploration, and a sense of community within the library.
  • Student Success and Retention:
    • Actively collaborate with faculty and staff to integrate library services into the academic curriculum.
    • Create opportunities for students to develop their identity as scholars and feel a stronger sense of belonging on campus.
  • Outreach:
    • Serve as a key liaison to academic departments and student organizations to ensure library services are responsive to the needs of the university community.
  • Manage Student Library Aides:
    • Train and manage student library aids to assist in basic reference services as well as to provide support for programming on a peer level.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS, MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program
  • Experience in academic libraries with a focus on instruction, reference, and outreach
  • Demonstrated ability to design and implement creative programming
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills
  • A passion for working with and mentoring university students
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with integrated library systems (ILS) and various library technologies
  • Familiarity and experience with library promotion
  • Experience with assessment of library services and programming

Applications

Applications should include a CV, a letter of interest (addressing the desired qualifications, the university’s mission, and evidence of teaching effectiveness), and a list of 3 professional references.
These materials should be sent as a single PDF to provost@svu.edu. A sample of research may also be included in a separate PDF.

Application Review Start Time

We will begin a formal review on January 15, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

About Southern Virginia University

Southern Virginia University is a private, faith-based institution of higher education aligned with the restored gospel of Jesus Christ as taught by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a university, we gather faithful Latter-day Saints and those who share our values, lift intellectually, socially, and spiritually, and launch into successful lives and careers. Applicants are invited to learn more about the university at svu.edu/mission.