Director of Library Services

Holy Family University is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth founded in 1954. The University is a private institution in the Catholic tradition with campus locations in Philadelphia and Newtown PA. The main campus is nestled in the heart of a historic residential neighborhood in Northeast Philadelphia that is vibrant and just minutes from the excitement of Center City. The Newtown campus is located in Bucks County surrounded by nature and a step away from parks, farmers' markets and great dining.

One of the best parts of Holy Family University is our inclusive atmosphere--and that's not by chance. Our mission centers on creating an environment that is welcoming and encourages all members to get to know one another, learn from one another, and experience a range of perspectives and worldviews. Our diversity is what makes us a strong community.

University Benefits

Holy Family University takes pride in offering a range of meaningful and flexible benefits designed to promote the health and wellness of our employees and their dependents. Our comprehensive benefits and resources focus on physical, mental and financial wellness to include medical, prescription, dental and vision. We did not stop there; we also offer our employees the following fringe benefits and more.

1. Commuter Benefits: Transit and park benefits through pre-tax payroll deductions
2. Half-Day Fridays: Enjoy half day Fridays in the summer
3. 403(b) Retirement: Discretionary match up to 5%; vested immediately
4. Time Off: 12 Paid Holidays, Vacation, Personal, Sick Days and a week off for Winter Break
5. Tuition Benefits: Employees or dependents pursuing a first Undergraduate Degree receive 100% tuition remission; employees pursuing a first Master's or Doctoral degree, receive 100% tuition remission; eligible dependents pursuing a first Master's or Doctoral degree, receive 50% tuition discount.
6. Alpha House: 50% Discount for Nursery, Pre-K and Kindergarten

Position Summary

Holy Family University seeks a visionary and innovative Director of Library Services to lead our library into the future. The ideal candidate will be a forward-thinking information professional who can reimagine the library's role as a dynamic hub for knowledge creation, digital literacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This transformative leader will spearhead initiatives leveraging emerging technologies, fostering open access, and creating immersive learning experiences. This individual will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight of all library operations and enhancing resources and services that support academic programs, research initiatives, and student success. The director will cultivate partnerships across the university and beyond, positioning the library as a catalyst for innovation in teaching, research, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a future-focused strategic vision that aligns with the university's mission and evolving information needs.
• Lead the digital transformation of library services, integrating AI, data analytics, and emerging technologies to enhance user experience and operational efficiency.
• Oversee all aspects of library operations, including the university archives; and the acquisition, organization, and dissemination of information resources.
• Cultivate a culture of innovation, experimentation, and continuous learning among library staff.
• Spearhead initiatives in open educational resources (OER), digital scholarship, and data management to support next-generation research and learning.
• Forge strategic partnerships with academic departments, IT services, and external organizations to create collaborative, technology-rich learning spaces.
• Lead efforts to ensure the library collection meets the diverse needs of students and faculty, expand digital resources, improve access to online databases, and support faculty in integrating digital tools into their curricula.
• Explore innovative funding models and pursue grants to support cutting-edge library initiatives.
• Champion information literacy and digital fluency initiatives that prepare students for success in the digital economy.
• Promote and enhance library services, including information literacy instruction, research consultations, and faculty collaboration.
• Take lead in developing a strategic plan for implementing open educational resources (OER) in the HFU curriculum
• Maintain statistical records of library services and consolidate data into appropriate reporting formats for accrediting bodies, government agencies and other university needs.

Required Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in an academic library, with progressive leadership and management experience.
• Demonstrated success in leading library initiatives, strategic planning, and advancing library services in a digital age.
• Strong understanding of current trends in scholarly communication, open access, and digital preservation.
• Proven ability to foster innovation, lead change, and inspire teams in rapidly evolving environments.
• Excellent digital literacy skills and ability to adapt to new technologies quickly.
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in all aspects of library services and operations.
• Ability to manage budgets, resources, and personnel effectively.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with library technology platforms, including integrated library systems, digital repository systems, and instructional technologies.
• Track record of successful grant writing and project management for innovative library initiatives.
• Awareness of emerging trends in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and their applications in library services.
• Knowledge of trends in open educational resources (OER), digital humanities, data management service and the changing landscape of academic libraries.

Non-Discrimination Statement

Holy Family University seeks to foster an inclusive and healthy educational and work environment based on respect, the dignity of each person and the oneness of the human family. Holy Family is dedicated to ensuring an environment free of discrimination or harassment of any kind, and promotes equal opportunity and inclusion in its employment and education.

For more details on our commitment to nondiscrimination click HERE

We invite qualified applicants to view our open positions and apply directly at our career center by submitting a cover letter, resume and a brief statement (500 words max) outlining your vision for academic libraries.