Strategic Leader, Library Acquisitions & Collections

Illinois Library Association; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

DePaul University is seeking a Head of Acquisitions & Collections Strategy to lead the ACS department, overseeing the library’s acquisitions workflows and budgeting. The role drives collection development through data analysis, licensing, and resource management to support research, teaching, and learning priorities.

The position emphasizes collaboration across the library and university, ongoing staff development, and engagement with inclusion and accessibility goals.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited program.
• Minimum 6 years of academic library experience, with acquisitions/collection development experience.
• Demonstrated leadership and ability to supervise staff and manage budgets.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for Acquisitions & Collections Strategy (ACS) department and align activities with university goals.
• Oversee the acquisitions lifecycle across print and electronic formats and manage budgeting and procurement workflows.
• Shape and implement collection strategies, assess impact, and coordinate with committees to set priorities.
• Support staff development, professional growth, and continuous improvement through training and programs.
• Collaborate across library and university to align resources with priorities, budgeting, and diverse user needs.
• Prepare and justify collections budget with leadership to support staffing and technology.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Project management

Data analysis

Budgeting/financial management

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Master’s degree (ALA-accredited)

6+ years academic library experience

Tools

Alma/Primo

Open Athens

Springshare

Job description

DePaul University is seeking a Head of Acquisitions & Collections Strategy to lead the ACS department, overseeing the library’s acquisitions workflows and budgeting. The role drives collection development through data analysis, licensing, and resource management to support research, teaching, and learning priorities.

The position emphasizes collaboration across the library and university, ongoing staff development, and engagement with inclusion and accessibility goals.