Systems & Discovery Librarian – Libraries

The Systems & Discovery Services Librarian provides leadership in the configuration, maintenance, and ongoing enhancement of discovery, access, and productivity tools that support research, teaching, and learning across the University. They administer and provide oversight of WVUL’s discovery system and integrated library system, as well as library web-applications developed in-house, open-source software, and turnkey platforms that support resource discovery, learning and content management, user engagement, analytics, and system integration across the libraries’ digital environment. They also ensure the effective integration of these systems with other library technologies, through coordinating system workflows, leading troubleshooting efforts, monitoring and testing updates and enhancements, and providing timely communication to library employees regarding system status, outages, and releases. They evaluate user experiences with discovery platforms and other integrated applications on an ongoing basis, leveraging analytics, user research, and assessment activities to inform improvements and optimize system usability.

In addition, they supervise the Systems department’s student workers including responsibilities for hiring, training (along with technologists in Systems), scheduling, and performance evaluation.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

• Administer system-wide discovery tools, working collaboratively with units managing the ILS, knowledge bases, access tools, authentication services, and user interfaces to provide reliable access.
• Co-manage the ILS alongside KARM and Access Services, including overall ILS system administration and management of discovery-related settings; stay informed on updates, monitor staff feedback, and troubleshoot issues.
• Oversee library web applications and software, including in-house-developed tools and open-source or licensed platforms; monitor updates, manage users, and troubleshoot in conjunction with other Systems staff.
• Research, propose, and implement configuration recommendations for discovery systems to enhance user experience.
• Serve as a liaison with vendors for discovery, ILS, and library web applications, maintaining strong vendor relationships and advocating for enhancements or bug fixes as needed, as well as working with other departments to identify solutions and manage customizations or backend services.
• Communicate system updates, release schedules, and enhancements to library staff, including creating documentation and responding to questions.
• Explore emerging technologies and integrations to expand discovery, fulfillment, and resource sharing within the Libraries.
• Assess current and future library technologies in collaboration with relevant departments; recommend adoption, change, or retirement of systems.
• Coordinate with departments to identify collections for inclusion or removal from discovery and manage incorporation of metadata into discovery systems using collaborative project management approaches.
• Monitor, record, and report usage statistics and analytics, including overseeing Google Analytics for library platforms.
• Collaborate with the Systems department on library services, resources, and projects as needed, including with the Libraries’ UX designer on usability testing to improve usability, accessibility, and overall user satisfaction.
• Leverage web analytics and usability studies to drive data-informed enhancements for discovery, the ILS, and other library technologies.
• Advise and inform library departments and committees on:
  • System-wide policies to improve discovery.
  • Areas for usability testing and data-driven improvements.
  • Discovery updates affecting other departments and users.
  • Library web applications and software updates to enhance user services.
• Develop and deliver training materials for library employees on library web applications and discovery tools.
• Supervise the Systems department’s student workers (LITES), including recruiting, hiring, training, scheduling, and evaluating performance to ensure effective support of departmental projects, desktop computing, and classroom technology services.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited program for library and information sciences or equivalent
• At least three years’ experience related to discovery systems, integrated library systems, or other similar content or knowledge management systems with additional experience in library software, technologies, or user experience/usability preferred.
• Proven ability to build strong collaborations with internal and external stakeholders, including library departments and vendor partners.
• Knowledge of emerging discovery technologies and library software systems.
• Strong attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and quality in all aspects of work.
• Understanding how technology changes impact researchers, students, and library employees.
• Excellent communication and project management skills including the ability to create clear project plans, documentation, and training materials.
• Demonstrated commitment to user-focused discovery services and technology support.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or completed coursework in Computer or Information Science, Project Management, or related fields
• Experience evaluating and optimizing information access systems using user-centered design principles to improve user experience and search effectiveness
• Experience with OCLC’s WorldShare Management System and Worldcat Discovery
• Experience with EBSCOHost, EBSCO Discovery Service, or other library discovery platforms
• Experience with Springshare’s LibApps products, including LibCal, LibGuides, LibAnswers, and LibWizard.
• Experience with Google Analytics or other web analytics platforms
• Knowledge of open-source software development processes and management

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values – service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation – unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.