Head of Public Services
The Leigh H. Taylor Law Library is seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking Head of Public Services—an essential leadership role for a librarian who values collaboration, innovation, and excellence in service. As part of the library’s management team, the Head of Public Services partners with the Library Director and Head of Collection Services to shape strategic priorities and ensure exceptional public-facing services. This position leads a team of reference librarians, support staff, and student assistants who deliver expert reference, circulation, access, and interlibrary loan services. The Head of Public Services plays a vital role in legal research instruction—managing and teaching in both the first-year research curriculum and upper-level advanced research electives. This is a highly collaborative role that blends strategic planning, daily operations oversight, teaching, and outreach in a dynamic academic environment. This is a hybrid position with limited remote work.
Primary Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the Library Director to support the library’s mission and ensure compliance with ABA and AALS standards.
- Lead and manage day-to-day operations for reference, circulation, access, and interlibrary loan services.
- Supervise, mentor, and develop library staff and student workers.
- Design and teach legal research courses for first-year and upper-level students.
- Deliver guest lectures and workshops for doctrinal courses and student organizations.
- Serve on faculty and law school committees as appointed.
- Provide expert reference services, including potential evening and weekend coverage.
- Contribute to collection development and participate in broader library initiatives.
- Engage in outreach activities that enhance the visibility and value of the library.
- Represent the library in professional associations like AALL.
Minimum Job Requirements
- J.D. from an accredited institution.
- M.L.S. (or equivalent) from an ALA-accredited program.
- At least 5 years of experience in public services, preferably in an academic law library, with a demonstrated ability—or strong potential—to lead and manage librarians and staff.
- A minimum of 4 years of experience teaching legal research in an academic setting.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to excellent service and collaboration.
- A confident, outgoing presence, comfortable speaking to large audiences, leading tours, and representing the library in public-facing events.
- Experience or interest in collection development and technical services.
- A record of professional engagement through scholarship, teaching, and/or service.
- Candidates with prior experience in state or federal legal practice are especially encouraged to apply.
A Career with Purpose, Growth, and Flexibility
At Southwestern, we believe in nurturing our people. Our leadership is deeply committed to supporting your interests, whether you're passionate about teaching, technology, access to justice, or scholarship. The Head of Public Services is a valued educator, mentor, and colleague.
To apply: For full consideration, submit a cover letter, CV, and three professional references to jobs7@swlaw.edu.