Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from The University of Kansas
Job overview
The Spencer Public Engagement Librarian at The University of Kansas leads community engagement efforts to connect diverse groups with the Kenneth Spencer Research Library's collections and services, promoting access and use through programming and outreach.
Responsibilities and impact
The librarian designs and delivers educational programming, develops lesson plans and online resources, conducts outreach and tours, assists with reference, and collaborates with faculty and community groups to promote library collections and services.
Compensation and benefits
The position offers a minimum salary of $60,000 with final determination based on experience, and includes benefits typical of a full-time tenure-track faculty role at a university.
Experience and skills
Candidates must have an ALA-accredited master's degree in Library/Information Science or equivalent, or a PhD in LIS from an accredited program, with experience in teaching with primary sources and community engagement in library or archival settings.
Career development
The role is a tenure-track faculty position with opportunities for scholarly research, publication, and professional service, supporting career advancement within the university library system.
Work environment and culture
KU fosters a culture of care, respect, and inclusion, valuing diverse perspectives and supporting continuous learning and growth in a collaborative academic environment.
Company information
The University of Kansas is a major public research university with a commitment to community engagement and cultural preservation through its libraries and special collections.
Team overview
The librarian reports to the director of Kenneth Spencer Research Library and works collaboratively with colleagues across KU Libraries and community partners.
Job location and travel
The position is based at the Kenneth Spencer Research Library in Lawrence, Kansas, requiring some evening, weekend work, and occasional travel.
Application process
Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume/CV, and three professional references via an online application by August 17, 2025, with review beginning August 18, 2025.
Unique job features
This role uniquely combines academic librarianship with community outreach and experiential teaching using rare and special collections, emphasizing public engagement and educational programming.
Company overview
The University of Kansas (KU) is a major public research university located in Lawrence, Kansas. Established in 1865, KU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various fields such as engineering, business, law, and medicine. The university generates revenue through tuition fees, state funding, research grants, and donations. KU is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, with significant contributions to fields like aerospace engineering and pharmaceutical sciences. The university's athletic teams, known as the Jayhawks, have a rich history and are a key part of its community and culture.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to highlight experience in community engagement, teaching with primary sources, and collaborative outreach, emphasizing your ability to design and deliver innovative programming with rare books and archives at The University of Kansas' Kenneth Spencer Research Library.
Emphasize skills in developing lesson plans and online educational resources for K-12 audiences, as well as experience in coordinating outreach activities and promoting library collections to diverse community groups.
Apply through multiple platforms including The University of Kansas' official careers site and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility for the Spencer Public Engagement Librarian role.
Connect with current librarians and staff within the Spencer Research Library and KU Libraries on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like inquiring about recent community programs they've led or expressing enthusiasm for KU's strategic goals in community engagement.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'community engagement,' 'primary sources,' 'programming,' 'K-12 education,' 'outreach,' and 'collaborative relationships' to ensure your application passes initial screenings.
Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature can automate tailoring your resume, identify the best application channels, and find LinkedIn contacts for networking, allowing you to focus your time on preparing for interviews and deepening your knowledge of KU Libraries.
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