Dean & University Librarian

Dean & University Librarian 

You belong at a university that’s leading the way!

The University of Florida (UF) seeks a dynamic and visionary Dean of University Libraries to lead the George A. Smathers Libraries in advancing research, learning, and innovation. Reporting to the Provost and serving as a member of the Council of Academic Deans, the Dean will oversee evolving library technologies, maintain excellence in collections and services, and collaborate with campus and library leaders to meet the needs of UF’s academic community. The Dean plays a pivotal role in supporting faculty and student research while ensuring UF’s libraries remain a world-class resource.

About the University of Florida

The University of Florida, the state’s flagship institution, is a top-ranked public research university located in Gainesville. With 16 colleges, a major academic health center, and championship-winning athletics, UF is a leader in education, research, and innovation. Its 2,000-acre campus integrates historic charm with state-of-the-art facilities and preserved natural spaces, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Ranked 7th among U.S. public universities in the 2025 U.S. News Best Colleges rankings, UF continues to drive advancements across multiple fields.

With over 60,000 students, 32,000 employees, and a $10 billion annual budget, UF is among the largest and most well-funded universities in the nation. A member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), UF boasts 6,600+ faculty, including National Academy members and award-winning scholars. In 2024, UF research expenditures surpassed $1.26 billion, demonstrating a strong commitment to discovery and technological advancement. The university leads in artificial intelligence education, incorporating AI into 200+ courses taught by 350 faculty, supported by HiPerGator, the most powerful university-owned supercomputer in the U.S.

UF’s strength lies in its comprehensive academic offerings, robust state support, and forward-thinking vision. With continuous growth and transformation, UF is dedicated to its mission “to be a premier university that the state, nation, and world look to for leadership.” For more information, visit www.ufl.edu.

About the George A. Smathers Libraries

The George A. Smathers Libraries are a leading academic resource, serving as members of prominent library organizations such as Association of Research Libraries (ARL), Association of Southeastern Research Libraries (ASERL), Center for Research Libraries (CRL), and Coalition for Networked Information (CNI). Within Florida, they are part of Council of State University Libraries (CSUL) and Members Council on Library Services (MCLS), representing all 40 public state universities and colleges. The library system includes seven campus libraries and multiple off-campus facilities, making it the largest academic information resource in Florida. These libraries, including the Architecture and Fine Arts Library, Education Library, Health Science Center Libraries, Library West, Marston Science Library, and Smathers Library, report to the Dean of University Libraries, while the Lawton Chiles Legal Information Center is overseen by the Dean of the Levin College of Law. The system is supported by a staff of over 70 tenured and tenure-track faculty, more than 180 professional and technical staff, and approximately 150 student employees. For more information, visit UF Libraries.

The Smathers Libraries house over 5.37 million print, microform, and tangible volumes, alongside access to 4.3 million external online resources, including full-text journals, e-books, streaming media, databases, and government documents. The University of Florida Digital Collections (UFDC) provide open access to more than 1.2 million items for preservation and scholarly use. These libraries also feature nationally and internationally significant research collections, such as the Latin American & Caribbean Collection, the Price Library of Judaica, the Baldwin Library of Historical Children's Literature, the Map & Imagery Library, and the P.K. Yonge Library of Florida History. In the 2023-2024 academic year, the Smathers Libraries welcomed over 3.12 million a students, faculty, staff, and members of the greater community, reinforcing their role as a hub for research and learning at UF.

About the Opportunity

The Dean of University Libraries serves as the chief academic and administrative officer for the George A. Smathers Libraries and reports directly to the Provost. The Dean will lead the university’s library system in advancing research, teaching, and learning while ensuring the highest level of service to faculty, students, and the broader academic community.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing a strategic vision for the future of UF’s libraries in order to anticipate and meet the changing needs of our faculty, students, staff, and greater community.
• Managing a $47 million budget and a staff of over 250 library professionals, faculty, and support personnel.
• Expanding digital and print collections to support interdisciplinary research and scholarship.
• Strengthening partnerships with campus stakeholders and external organizations to enhance UF’s research enterprise.
• Advocating for library resources and services at the university, state, and national levels.
• Leading fundraising efforts, securing grants, and cultivating donor relationships to enhance library programs and initiatives.
• Dedication to fostering practices that advance UF’s core values.

The ideal candidate will be a forward-thinking leader with a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of academic libraries. The anticipated start date for the new Dean will be August 2025. 

Commensurate with Education and Experience

The University of Florida offers a competitive salary commensurate with similar positions and includes a full benefits package. Click here to view the university’s Total Rewards Benefits plans.

• Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS), Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program, or earned terminal degree in an appropriate relevant field.
• A strong record of leadership and administrative experience in a research library, academic institution, or similar enterprise.
• Demonstrated success in budget management, fundraising, and strategic planning.
• Experience with digital scholarship, open-access initiatives, and innovative library technologies.
• Be qualified for an appointment at the rank of Assoc/University Librarian

• A Ph.D. in Library Science, MBA, or other advanced degree in a relevant field.
• National or international recognition in academic library leadership and scholarship.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Why Gainesville?

Gainesville is home to Florida's largest and oldest university, as well as a vibrant hub of education, healthcare, culture, and sports in the state. The University of Florida and UF Health Shands Hospital are major employers, providing jobs for many residents of surrounding counties. The Greater Gainesville area serves as the cultural, educational, and commercial heart of the north central Florida region. Gainesville offers a full range of municipal services, including cultural and administrative support. Renowned for its preservation of historic landmarks and natural beauty, the city boasts numerous parks, museums, and lakes that attract thousands of visitors. With its lush urban forest and Tree City USA® designation, Gainesville stands out as one of Florida's most picturesque cities. Its central location provides convenient access to both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, offering easy exploration of Florida's famed beaches, springs, and nature reserves. Explore Gainesville in 60 Seconds.

Nomination and Application Instructions

Join us at UF and help shape the future of academic libraries! We welcome nominations of and applications for individuals who would bring unique perspectives and experiences to support UF’s mission of excellence in education, research, and student life. Inquiries and nominations can be sent to the Strategic Talent Group.

Candidates must apply online at Careers at UF. For full consideration, applications must be submitted by Sunday, April 6^th  2025, at 11:55 p.m. with the following required documents:

• Cover Letter summarizing experience, qualifications, and interest in this role
• A complete CV
• List of references for at least three (3) professional contacts that includes:
  • Full name
  • Current position
  • Email address
  • Telephone number

Applications received after Sunday, April 6^th  2025, at 11:55 p.m. will be reviewed at the discretion of the search committee. The position posting will remain open and accept applications until a competitive pool of applicants is established. Anticipated start date of August 2025.

Our Commitment

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.