Medical Librarian - School of Medicine

Reports To: Director of Library Services, MU and Senior Associate Dean for Student Experience, MUCFVH School of Medicine 

General Responsibilities:

The Medical Librarian will oversee and manage the library resources and services that support the educational and research needs of medical students, faculty, and staff. This role will require close collaboration with the Methodist University librarian to ensure comprehensive access to medical literature and resources. As part of a dynamic new medical school, housed within the vibrant environment of an established liberal arts college, the Librarian will play a pivotal role in shaping a library that meets the unique needs of our medical community and fosters a culture of inquiry and scholarship.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Library Management:
  • Oversee the daily operations of the medical library, ensuring a conducive learning environment for medical students.
  • Develop and implement policies and procedures for library services, including circulation, reference, and information literacy.
• Resource Development:
  • Collaborate with faculty and students to identify library resource needs, ensuring a collection that supports the curriculum and research initiatives.
  • Manage library budgets and resources, allocating funds efficiently to acquire essential medical texts, journals, and electronic resources.
• User Support:
  • Provide expert reference services and instruction in the effective use of library resources, including databases, e-books, and journals.
  • Develop and implement user education programs to enhance the information literacy of medical students and faculty.
• Collaboration and Partnerships:
  • Liaise with the Methodist University librarian to integrate library services with broader university initiatives and resources.
  • Foster partnerships with regional and national medical libraries to enhance access to shared resources and services.
• Technology Integration:
  • Lead initiatives to incorporate technology into library services, such as online databases, virtual reference services, and digital archives.
  • Evaluate and implement new technologies to improve library services and access to information.
• Assessment and Improvement:
  • Conduct regular assessments of library services and resources to ensure they meet the evolving needs of the medical school community.
  • Develop strategies for continuous improvement of library services based on user feedback and assessment results.
• Committee Participation:
  • Serve on relevant committees related to medical education and library services, providing insights into resource needs and student engagement.
  • Participate in the Medical Student Promotions and Professionalism Committee as needed to address academic resource-related concerns.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's degree in library science (MLS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited institution.
• Experience in academic library settings, preferably in health sciences or medical education.
• Strong knowledge of medical information resources and library technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to provide effective user services and instruction in an academic environment.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a commitment to collaboration and service.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong organizational and leadership skills to manage library operations and staff.
• Ability to assess user needs and develop services that enhance library engagement.
• Familiarity with medical education processes and the unique resource needs of medical students and faculty.
• Proficiency in utilizing library management systems and digital resource platforms.

Other Duties as Assigned:

• The Medical Librarian may perform other related duties as required by the Dean of the School of Medicine or the university administration.