Associate Director for Collections, Bentley Historical Library
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About University of Michigan
The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future. Founded in Detroit in 1817, the University of Michigan moved to Ann Arbor in 1837 and began enrolling students in 1841, making it the oldest institution of higher education in Michigan and one of the earliest research universities in the United States. Women were allowed to enroll as of 1870. Today over 45,000 students are enrolled at the Ann Arbor, Dearborn and Flint campuses and over 30,000 employees make the University one of Michigan’s top 5 largest employers. The University of Michigan is a top ranked research institution, with nationally recognized faculty, small class sizes, tremendous athletic and cocurricular programs, and provides an exceptional return on investment for its students.
The Role of Associate Director for Collections, Bentley Historical Library
The Bentley Historical Library at the University of Michigan seeks talented applicants for the role of Associate Director for Collections. Overseeing some of the oldest documents of Michigan as well as the archives of the University of Michigan, the Bentley is a pre-eminent research archive, open to all and serving the needs of researchers and students worldwide. The Associate Director for Collections will help plan for the future of these great collections, steering their focus and scope for maximum impact.
The Bentley Historical Library, a vital part of the University of Michigan, is dedicated to collecting and promoting the study of the histories of the State of Michigan and the University of Michigan. Open to the public without fee, the Library welcomes researchers of all backgrounds. The Bentley holds over 11,000 research collections, made up of ~80,000 linear feet and ~320 TBs of collection material, including the papers of Michigan governors, records of student and faculty life, and the complete historical archive of Michigan's intercollegiate athletics. The Bentley provides a rich resource for historical research and features a state-of-the-art conservation lab where expert archivists and conservators teach and preserve materials such as books, maps, and architectural drawings. Additionally, the historic Detroit Observatory on the University’s central campus is a division of the Library, further enhancing its resources and outreach.
Reporting to the library director, the AD for Collections manages a team of 6 professionals (5 archivists and 1 research associate) who acquire collections, explore and implement post-custodial approaches, engage with campus and local communities, provide specialized reference services, and support teaching, learning, and programming centered on the collections. This person both establishes a vision and sets goals for the collections team and oversees day-to-day operations. Their focus is on effective and ethical stewardship in the context of a library and university committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Contact Information
Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. The salary range for this role is $100,000-$120,000 with a generous benefits package. To learn more about University of Michigan-Ann Arbor’s benefits, please see their website https://hr.umich.edu/working-u-m. Note that the final salary will reflect internal equity and the selected candidate’s individual experiences and qualifications. The mode of work for this position is in person with the option of one day per week hybrid.
Storbeck Search has been exclusively retained for this engagement, which is being led by Matthew Bunting and Susan Kart. Express interest in this role by filling out our Talent Profile: https://talent-profile.dsgco.com/search/v2/21830. Please send all inquiries and nominations to: [email protected]. All inquiries and discussions are strictly confidential.
The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
University of Michigan Organizational Statement on Harassment: We believe all individuals deserve to be treated with respect and dignity and have the right to work in a professional atmosphere that promotes mutual respect and a safe space for collaboration. Any concerns shared with Individuals with Reporting Obligations in the Bentley Historical Library will be reported to the Equity, Civil Rights, & Title IX Office to be reviewed and addressed, and the Bentley Historical Library encourages reporting of any forms of harassment including sexual and gender-based harassment.