Head of Distinctive Collections and Collections Strategy

Position Title: Head of Distinctive Collections and Collections Strategy.
Department: Libraries and IT (LITS).                                 
Classification: Exempt.                             
FTE: 1.0.
Work Schedule: : The standard 40-hour work schedule is Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm; flexible work arrangements can be proposed and are subject to approval by the CIO and HR; occasional evening and weekend hours; travel up to 5% of the work schedule, which includes local (Twin Cities metro area) and national travel; overnight trips average 1-2 trips per year.
Work Location: Hybrid. Remote 1 – 2 days a week. Will work on campus fully for the first three months. 
Salary Range: $75,000 - $85,000.

Applications received by end of day January 12, 2026, will receive priority consideration. 

Essential Job Duties:

• Oversee the St. Olaf Archives (Shaw-Olson Center for College History) and Distinctive Collections
  • Develop and oversee the annual and long-range plans for the department in consultation with the Archivist and Distinctive Collections Engagement Librarian to curate the collections of original manuscripts, early editions, genealogical works, rare books, photographs, maps, and historical documents. 
  • Develop long range plans for conservation and preservation of both the physical and digital materials including assessment of the collections, identification of appropriate conservators, and management/monitoring of the storage environment.
  • Work with the Head of Acquisitions and Resource Management to oversee the ongoing development of the digital presence of the department which includes the Collective Access archives management system, website, Digital St. Olaf, etc. Work with the Head of Acquisitions and Resource Management to keep the sites updated and refreshed. 
  • Lead the development of engagement programs including instruction, exhibitions, reference services, outreach, strategic partnerships, etc. 
  • Lead the collaboration efforts with the Norwegian American Historical Association including the shared spaces, services, and shared staffing responsibilities.
• Set strategy and provide leadership for the ongoing development and management of the St. Olaf College library collection.
  • Establish and evaluate collection and access policies, standards, procedures, and goals with a focus on overall operational efficiency and effective patron access and service.
  • In consultation with the faculty and Research and Instruction Librarians, build balanced teaching collections that meet curricular and research needs. 
  • In consultation with academic departments, establish a bi-annual review of subscriptions.
• Manage the operating, capital and gift budgets for the general collection, Archives and Special Collections.
  • Develop annual and long-range budgets to meet the strategic priorities.
  • Seek outside funding opportunities to support operations, collections, and management of the collections.
  • Coordinate donor relations and development activities within Archives and Distinctive Collections. 
  • Write and manage grant proposals to develop new services and to enhance care of collections.
  • Work with the Advancement Division staff to cultivate strong relationships with alumni, friends, and corporations to develop opportunities for gifts. 
• Lead the department staff, fostering a team-based, inclusive, collaborative, and creative work environment.
  • Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise staff.
  • Develop and oversee department policies, procedures and workflows that are consistent with LITS and college policies.
  • Develop staff development and training programs to strengthen individual skills while also providing core training in other areas. 
  • Set policies for the recruiting, training, and supervision of student employees, interns and volunteers.
• Provide local, regional and national leadership.
  • Serve on the LITS Leadership Team and the Bridge Consortium Management Team.
  • Serve as the college representative at local, regional, and national meetings and events and represent the CIO as requested.
  • Work collaboratively and in tandem with peers at Carleton College to ensure that wor