Collection Development and Electronic Resources Librarian

The William Paterson University of New Jersey; Wayne (NJ); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

William Paterson University is seeking a Collection Development and Electronic Resources Librarian to oversee acquisition, access, and management of the library’s print and digital collections. The role emphasizes aligning resources with institutional priorities and user needs.

The librarian will negotiate licenses, analyze usage, and collaborate with IT to ensure reliable access, while educating patrons and supporting instructional programs.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Library and Information Science (ALA-accredited) by time of appointment.
• Second master's degree required by time of tenure.
• Knowledge of collection development policies and standards.
• Familiarity with electronic resources licensing and vendor management.
• Ability to evaluate information resources for relevance and quality.
• Proficiency with library systems and software.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the library's print and electronic collections.
• Evaluate usage data to guide collection decisions and budget.
• Negotiate licenses for electronic resources with vendors.
• Collaborate with IT and library staff to ensure access and functionality of resources.
• Educate users on accessing electronic resources and platforms.
• Provide training and create instructional materials for patrons.

Skills

Collection development

Vendor management

Data analysis

Library systems

Interpersonal communication

Education

MLS/ALA-accredited MLS

Second master's degree

Tools

Electronic Resource Licensing

LibGuides/Library platforms

Job description

Thank you for your interest in working at William Paterson University.

William Paterson University is a purpose-driven, proudly diverse community-designated as both a public Hispanic-Serving Institution and Minority-Serving Institution-committed to creating transformative academic, professional, and personal experiences as a powerhouse of progress. We foster a workplace that values growth, flexibility, and community, and we are recognized as a 2024 and 2025 Forbes' Best Employers by State, 2025 Great College to Work For, and honored with the NJBIZ Empowering Women Award .

Our 1,000 dedicated staff members enjoy competitive benefits, a four-day summer workweek, tuition support, and strong opportunities for internal promotion. Situated on a scenic suburban campus just 20 miles from New York City, WP offers a diverse, inclusive environment where your contributions fuel student success, economic and social mobility, and community engagement. Together, we empower our students through intentional, holistic support within flexible, innovative, and inclusive settings-preparing graduates to thrive professionally and personally, and to lead with a commitment to progress in New Jersey and beyond.

Job Description

Reporting under the Resource Management Division of the Cheng Library, the Collection Development and Electronic Resources Librarian is responsible for the acquisition, maintenance, and management of the library's print and electronic collections, with a focus on institutional priorities and the needs of William Paterson University's library users.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Collection Development:

• Understanding the information needs of the library's users through surveys, feedback, and analysis of usage data to ensure collection development activities are consistent with the library's mission and user needs.
• Identifying, selecting, and purchasing materials, including print and electronic resources from proprietary as well as open-source environments.
• Managing collection development funds effectively.
• Regularly evaluating the collection to identify gaps and needs and ensure the collection and accessible materials remain relevant and useful.
• Coordinating the Library's weeding activities to ensure removal of outdated/irrelevant materials from the collection on a regular basis.

Electronic Resources:

• Negotiating and managing licenses for electronic resources.
• Working with vendors to ensure access to electronic resources and addressing any emerging issues.
• Analyzing usage statistics to assess the value of electronic resources and make informed decisions about subscriptions and renewals.
• Working with IT staff and library systems personnel to ensure that electronic resources are accessible and functional.
• Educating users on how to access and use electronic resources.
• Participating in the Library User Education Program providing course-related instruction, orientations, demonstrations, and workshops.
• Developing and maintaining instructional materials in print and digital formats-including LibGuides, tutorials, and other learning objects to assist patrons in developing information seeking skills.

Other Duties:

• Working with other librarians and library staff to develop and maintain the collection.
• Staying up to date on new technologies, trends, and best practices in collection development and electronic resources management.
• Participating in the general Reference Desk coverage rotation on weekdays and weekends.
• Participating in the Library's Liaison Program with assignment to given departments as liaison and content selector.
• Providing training to library staff on use of newly acquired/accessible resources and platforms.
• Serving on Library, University, regional and national committees as appropriate.
• Performing other duties as assigned and appropriate for the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• A master's degree in the field of Library and Information Science (by time of appointment) - American Library Association (ALA) accredited.
• Second master's degree required by time of application for tenure.
• Knowledge of collection development policies, practices, and standards.
• Familiarity with electronic resources, licensing, and vendor management.
• Ability to evaluate information resources and assess their relevance and quality.
• Proficiency in using library systems and software.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Second master's degree preferred at time of appointment.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES AND TRAITS

• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage and communicate with diverse university communities and external audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize work, set reasonable and attainable milestones, and stay on timeline to achieve agreed upon goals.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and sustain relationships with diverse groups including work colleagues, external clients, prospective students, employers' representatives and community members.
• Able to stay motivated and effec