Need Not Apply? A Content Analysis of Library Dean/Director Job Postings

Abstract

Academic libraries are comprised of many types of librarians, archivists, and information professionals whose specializations complement and strengthen one another. The library's dean/director provides leadership for all these professionals and units, though it is likely they will not have direct experience with each unit or area of expertise they supervise. Considering that all individuals have a unique perspective and set of experiences, a dean/director's professional background will influence the priorities they set for the library, the decisions they make, and whether power imbalances emerge between units. Research has shown that few academic library deans/directors have professional experience with special collections and archives, which has the potential to impact the power structures and priorities surrounding these units. This raises the question of whether the recruitment process for library deans/directors is equitable for all academic information professionals to pursue, or if barriers may exist that deter certain candidates from applying for these positions. This poster will share original research that explores the composition of recent job postings for academic library deans/directors. It will reveal trends in perceived leadership needs, how the responsibilities of these positions are portrayed, and whether wording choices may be impacting the diversity of today's academic library deans/directors and thus the direction of the field.