Department Head, Research and Learning Services

Reporting to the Associate Dean for Library Operations, the Oklahoma State University Libraries seeks a dynamic Department Head to lead the Research and Learning Services (RLS) unit, a dedicated team of eight faculty librarians who strengthen their communities through thoughtful engagement with information systems, services that directly impact the campus community, innovative scholarship, and ethical practices.

This tenure-track position will provide strategic direction and agile leadership for research and learning support services, which encompasses innovative information literacy services for first-year and transfer students, undergraduates, and graduate students; the subject specialist and liaison program; and a robust initiative for scholarly communications, data management services, and research engagement.

The successful candidate will foster relationships with other library and university departments. This collaborative approach will be instrumental in planning and delivering new initiatives, growing partnerships, and enhancing access to library services in response to the evolving university and higher education landscape. A strong emphasis on the mentorship of faculty librarians is integral to this role.

Required qualifications:

• A master’s degree in library and information science (MLS, MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program
• At least five years of professional experience in academic libraries, preferably in roles involving faculty/student engagement, research support, instruction, or user services
• Demonstrated leadership and management experience with an emphasis on mentorship
• Demonstrated collegiality and the ability to foster a collaborative environment that encourages creativity
• A broad understanding of the contribution of libraries to the research, teaching, and outreach mission of land-grant universities
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communications skills
• Evidence of previous scholarly activities including publications, presentations, and/or professional association participation at the regional, national, and/or international level
• Ability to meet university standards for tenure-track faculty in scholarship, creative activity, and service

Preferred qualifications:

• A second master’s degree or a doctoral degree

Candidates are encouraged to view Dean Sheila Johnson’s expectations for Library leaders: https://library.okstate.edu/about/dean-of-libraries. For general information about the OSU Libraries, see https://library.okstate.edu.

Salary is a minimum of $92,000 annually for a 12-month appointment with a generous holiday schedule, health care plans, and retirement options. As part of this role, you will receive start-up funding for research or professional travel and have access to the library’s grant writer and development team.

Deadline: Application review begins February 16, 2026, and continues until the position is filled. For consideration of your application materials, apply through the university’s website at https://hr.okstate.edu/employment-opportunities. Along with the listed qualifications, please indicate any other professional experiences, certifications, or accomplishments you would bring to this position in your cover letter. Questions about the application process may be directed to Jessica Cottom, Assistant Director of Business Operations, at jessica.cottom@okstate.edu or 405-744-6324. The successful candidate will be required to submit to a background check.