Editor's Note: The job announcement encourages candidates to apply by 2/13/23 to WittKieffer's candidate portal. As of today, 2/21/23, it is still accepting applications.
Duties and Responsibilities
Reporting directly to the Head of Science, the Library Director will oversee the activities of the LuEsther T.
Mertz Library. The Director will be a champion of libraries and must be able to lead the Library on a global
stage as well as within NYBG.
The Director will be expected to:
▪ Build on the strong foundation of NYBG’s global profile by leading the Library in strategic new directions, including novel applications for collections resources and innovative uses of the collections.
▪ Lead the continued growth and development of the Library and its programs; oversee innovation and implementation of technological initiatives including Digitization.
▪ Develop robust funding, drawing on the Director’s international perspective and collaborations.
▪ Create a culture of inclusive excellence that advocates for Library staff.
▪ Employ best practices for the curation and management of the collections, including sustaining and
advancing Library staff skills to ensure that NYBG remains a leader in the botanical collections
community.
▪ Manage budgets and coordinate production of annual reports.
▪ Envision and implement activities for a wide range of audiences internally and externally, collaborating within NYBG as well as engaging the general public.
▪ Lead NYBG in collaborative projects with other institutions to advance biodiversity knowledge and leverage natural history collections to address issues of global importance, such as climate resilience.
▪ Participate in the development of policy standards in the natural history and library community relating to access and use of collections and their associated resources.
Requirements/Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess the following strengths and experience:
▪ A MLS or MLIS from an accredited program or equivalent experience in a library setting is preferred but not required. An advanced or terminal degree at the interface of science and the humanities or experience with museums or special collections is also desirable.
▪ A passion and genuine interest in the Mertz Library’s collection will be advantageous.
▪ Progressively increasing responsibility and substantial administrative leadership experience in an
academic or special library or collection focused setting.
▪ A clear understanding of the changes that are reshaping scholarship, the publishing landscape, digital
content, the ways in which information is shared and the dissemination and preservation of knowledge.
▪ Strong background, training and experience in Computer/Information Technology and the ability to leverage technology effectively for in person and online library users to access information resources they need to be successful.
▪ A strong interest and experience in building comprehensive collections commensurate with programmatic research requirements of the staff and students and with the interests of the general
public.
▪ Ability to innovate and drive programs, both within NYBG and externally.
▪ Demonstrated experience in administration, including personnel management, budgeting, and program development.
▪ Evidence of ability to secure financial support from public and private sources; track record of fundraising, including grant writing.
▪ Commitment to a collegial and supportive work environment, and demonstrated team-building abilities with strong interpersonal skills and an adaptable temperament.
▪ Excellent written and verbal communication skills for engaging with scientific and lay audiences.
▪ Demonstrated advocacy for inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA).
▪ Familiarity with collections management systems and metadata standards.
▪ Familiarity with conservation and preservation practices in library collections.
▪ History of participation in library collections organizations desired.
https://www.nybg.org/content/uploads/2023/01/Leadership-Profile-Director-of-the-Mertz-Library-FINAL-1.2.2022.pdf
All applications, nominations and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in this profile.
Jessica Herrington, Cathryn Davis and Melissa Fincher
NYBGDirectorMertzLibrary@wittkieffer.com
Compensation Range: $155,000 to $200,000
The New York Botanical Garden is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. The Garden does not
discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender
identity or expression, age, national origin and veteran or disability status. Underrepresented communities, Black,
Indigenous, persons of color, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
