The Librarian for Science, Engineering, and Connected Computing is part of the Science and Engineering Library (SEL) at Vanderbilt University and is a key individual contributor responsible for supporting the teaching and research in the Vanderbilt School of Engineering, the science disciplines in the College of Arts and Sciences, and the forthcoming College of Connected Computing. Reporting directly to the Associate Director, Science and Engineering Library, the Librarian for Science, Engineering, and Connected Computing will work as a member of the SEL’s team-based model for liaison librarianship.

 

The SEL team has developed a robust program of undergraduate instruction embedded within science and engineering curricula, with all members of the team doing significant teaching within this program.  SEL librarians work closely together as a team, and have a shared service model around outreach, instruction, collections and research engagement. The Librarian for Science, Engineering, and Connected Computing will contribute to the development of successful programs to support the emerging
curriculum of Vanderbilt University’s forthcoming College of Connected Computing, an interdisciplinary college dedicated to computer science, AI, data science and related fields. Vanderbilt University is a residential campus for undergraduates, and most teaching and research laboratories located within the main campus; this is a year-round, 12-month position, with most duties being performed on site.

 

About the Work Unit:

The Librarian for Science, Engineering, and Connected Computing works in the Stevenson Science and Engineering Library, one of nine campus libraries within the Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries. It is the only library open 24 hours per day and is the busiest library in the system. Located in Stevenson Center, the library’s primary user base can be found within the Stevenson complex as well as in Featheringill Hall, Buttrick Hall, Olin Hall and the Engineering and Science Building. Support staff manage the day-to-
day operations of the library facility, while the librarians focus on delivering services to science and engineering users in locations across campus. They visit faculty and students in their offices, classrooms and laboratories providing instruction and consultations that support research and coursework. The librarians work closely as a team, planning and delivering services to their constituents and making collections decisions together.

 

The Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries are fundamental to the university’s goal of advancing scholarship and learning. We collect, preserve and make accessible a wide variety of resources, we partner with faculty and students to shape research, and we encourage the development of informed scholars and engaged citizens.

 

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Collaborate with team members to implement and continuously refine a user-centered library service model for engineering, the sciences, and emerging programs in connected computing. Actively engage with faculty and students in their classrooms, offices and labs to bring librarian expertise to users where they work. Develop research support programs and offerings at all stages of the research life cycle. Deliver a curriculum-integrated information literacy program that creates scientists and engineers who are sophisticated users of technical information and data. Contribute to collections strategies that are sustainable and responsive to user needs. Participate in holistic quantitative and qualitative assessments of library services and programs. Represent the library locally, regionally, and nationally. Actively contribute to the library science profession in the areas of science and engineering librarianship. Participate in library system-wide and institutional initiatives and committees.

 

Supervisory Relationships:
This position does not have supervisory responsibility. This position reports administratively and functionally to the Associate Director, Science and Engineering Library.
 

Education and Certifications
A Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science (or equivalent degree) from an ALA accredited institution (completed by May 2025) is required.

Experience and Skills:

0-3 years’ experience in an academic research library is necessary. Outstanding communication skills and a demonstrated ability to effectively teach and present is necessary. Knowledge and/or active interest in using emerging technologies to enhance the delivery of information services is necessary. Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively on teams is necessary. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic and changing environment is necessary. Experience working in an academic research library is preferred. Knowledge of, or demonstrated interest in, current research practices and issues, including generative computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, research ethics, or computer science is preferred.

 

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are.  We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education. 
Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. 
Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.