Department: Library Services
Rank: Associate Librarian
Search #: 26-020
Specialization: Head of Special Collections and Archives
Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) is a diverse and student-centered university dedicated to academic excellence, access, and service for the public good. Southern provides a supportive and welcoming environment for all members of its community through a campus-wide commitment to social justice. SCSU is the only R2 institution in the State of Connecticut and a top producer of Fulbright U.S. Scholars. Founded as a teacher’s college in 1893, Southern has evolved over the past century into a comprehensive public university of approximately 9,000 students, offering graduate and undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and professional disciplines. We seek to instill in all students the value of discovery with the liberal arts and sciences serving as a foundation for professional development and life-long learning. The University is located in New Haven, Connecticut, a city rich and vibrant with arts and culture, and home to many universities and with easy access to New York City and Boston.
Brief Description of Duties/Responsibilities
Hilton C. Buley Library at Southern Connecticut State University is seeking a Tenure-Track Associate Librarian, Head of Special Collections and Archives. The successful candidate plans, develops, organizes, manages, promotes, and provides access and reference services for the Special Collections and Archives Division of Buley Library, both in person and online. In addition to public services related to special collections, the librarian provides specialized technical descriptions of rare and unique items in the collection in tandem with Technical Services. The librarian strengthens the pedagogical and research potential of the collection through direct instruction, through engagement programming with materials exhibited, and through advisement to the administration and staff on issues relating to bibliography, printing history, and archival science. Collection responsibilities include gift receipts and purchase in multiple formats. The Special Collections Librarian administers the preservation and disaster programs for Buley Library.
Required Qualifications
• An earned doctorate or a terminal degree appropriate to the field from an accredited college or university.
• Five years’ of full-time service in a college or university in a rank of Assistant Professor or above.
• Demonstrated ability to work creatively and collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and colleagues.
• Instructional experience in primary source material and exhibit programming.
• Knowledge of the theory and practice of special collections and archives & manuscript administration as well as emerging technologies appropriate to the fields.
• Knowledge of current cataloging and description standards for rare materials.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Active professional attendance and creative activity.
Preferred Qualifications
• Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited library school (or foreign equivalent) or accredited archives or historical management program.
• Grant application and management experience.
• Experience with donor relations.
• Experience coordinating exhibits and/or public programming.
• Experience with ArchivesSpace, DSpace, Islandora, and/or similar digital platforms.
• Experience with special collections or archives experience in an academic library or other research institution.
• Experience in non-academic archives, research centers, private libraries, and the antiquarian book trade may be considered as alternative qualifications.
Application Process
Send cover letter, resume, and three references to Search Committee Chair, Jacqueline Toce, librarysearch@southernct.edu. Evaluation of files will begin on February 1, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.