Systems & Discovery Librarian

Position Overview

Position Title

Systems & Discovery Librarian

Department

299050 - Connelly Library

Position Type

Regular

Position Classification

Full-Time, 12 months

Grant/Gift Funded (all or a portion)?

No

If Temporary or Grant Funded, Start Date and End Date

Position Description/Posting Details

Posting Number

S1467P

Position Summary

The Systems and Discovery Librarian oversees the systems and processes that make library materials discoverable and accessible. This includes cataloging, discovery, and authentication systems. The SDL establishes policies and procedures for the creation, maintenance, and enrichment of metadata representing the library’s digital, physical, and virtual collections. The SDL manages the ongoing work of the Technical Services Department and is responsible for the processing of materials in all formats, including print and digital resources. The SDL administers, maintains, and supports all modules of the library management system (FOLIO) and coordinates the operation and maintenance of other systems and networks used in the Library (EDS, OpenAthens, LibKey, etc.). The SDL serves as the Library’s primary liaison with the University’s IT Department. The SRDL may serve on Library or University faculty committees as required.

Essential Duties

General:

• Hires, trains, supervises, and evaluates staff in accordance with University policy.
• Develops policy, goals, and procedures for the department.
• Serves as liaison with other library departments, and as authorized by the Director, with the University community on matters relating to systems cataloging.

Specific to Discovery and Access:

• Responsible for oversight of all aspects of record quality and catalog integrity.
• Performs original and copy cataloging, creates and maintains metadata for library materials in all formats, including books, serials, audio-visual, digital, and electronic resources.
• Creates original bibliographic and non-MARC metadata records following professional standards.
• Updates the Library’s discovery service as needed.
• Works with fellow librarians and pertinent vendors and consortial partners to optimize the discovery experience for library users.
• Develops training materials and documentation for library staff in the maintenance of catalog records and the discovery platform.
• Provides appropriate backup for librarians to ensure that electronic resources are activated and communicates with vendors as needed to resolve issues.
• Maintains knowledge of and engages in continuous professional development to keep up with current and developing standards and practices.

Specific to System Operations:

• Serve as liaison with all system/service providers for the library management system, discovery service, cataloging platform(s), authentication, and the University’s IT Department.
• Plans and supervises system policy and coordinates with the Director of Library Operations and other Library staff as necessary.
• Troubleshoots patron-reported problems with accessing electronic resources.
• Plans and supervises system training for library staff.

Secondary Responsibilities

• Serves on Library and University committees and task forces including appointments made by the Faculty Senate.
• Participates in the work of regional and national professional organizations and societies in relevant systems, resource discovery, and cataloging areas.
• Attends professional development meetings and workshops as able to develop relevant job skills.
• Participate in University activities as able.
• Perform other duties and tasks as assigned.

# of Direct Reports

1

Required Qualifications

• ALA-accredited professional library degree, or its professional equivalent.
• Minimum of two years’ experience in technical services in an academic library.
• Previous experience with integrated library systems or unified resource management systems, and online bibliographic utilities.
• Strong service orientation and awareness of end user needs as related to resource discovery and access.
• Knowledge of and commitment to the mission of La Salle University.

Preferred Qualifications

• Two years’ experience supporting a library management system, discovery service, and technical services in an academic library setting is preferred.
• Previous experience with academic library cataloging and metadata creation of material in all formats, including electronic/digital resources.
• Experience in supporting library specific systems and software, e.g., OCLC cataloging and resource sharing products, MarcEdit, and library specific hardware, e.g. label printers, scanners, etc.
• Experience with or understanding of metadata issues related to the discovery of electronic resources with next-generation discovery platforms and other web-based search tools.

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours

• 50% in a stationary position, operating a computer and other office productivity machinery.
• Occasionally move about inside the library to access file cabinets, bookshelves, etc.
• Must be able to exchange accurate information. The person in this position frequently communicates with vendors and university staff departments to discuss issues related to library systems. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.

Special Instructions to Applicant

La Salle University is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and respectful environment where all individuals can thrive. We seek candidates who will contribute to a positive, inclusive, and supportive community, and who are committed to working collaboratively with students, fostering critical thinking, supporting their success, and helping them realize their full potential.

La Salle University offers its eligible employees comprehensive medical and dental plans, employer paid life and disability insurance, retirement benefits, generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays), and tuition benefits such as no cost undergraduate and graduate degree programs for its employees (with no wait period) and no cost undergraduate degree programs for its employees’ dependents (after completing the required years of service).

Posting Information

Application Open Date

10/08/2026

Application Close Date

11/30/2026

Application Open To

Internal and External Applicants