University Librarian

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University is seeking an outstanding leader for the Colonel Gary G. Swenson, Ph.D.

Endowed University Librarian to advance research, teaching, and learning across the ISU Library system. The University Library comprises Parks Library, the Veterinary Medical Library, and the Remote Library Storage Facility, with a multi‑million dollar operating budget and a strong endowment driving ongoing innovation.

Job description

University Librarian

Iowa State University of Science and Technology, one of the nation's leading land‑grant institutions, invites applications and nominations for the position of Colonel Gary G. Swenson, Ph.D. Endowed University Librarian. This is an endowed senior leadership position responsible for all university libraries.

The University Library is a student‑centered R1 academic library that supports research, teaching, and learning across every discipline at Iowa State University. It includes Parks Library, the Veterinary Medical Library, and the Remote Library Storage Facility. With an annual operating budget of approximately $24 million, a $5 million endowment, and more than $500,000 in annual private support, the library partners closely with academic units, student affairs, and the broader community. Parks Library is the intellectual and social hub of campus, welcoming nearly one million visitors each year. It offers diverse study spaces, advanced technology, specialized learning and media production facilities, and collaborative environments that foster student success, innovative teaching, and wellbeing through initiatives such as Cyclone Support Central.

The Colonel Gary G. Swenson Ph.D. University Librarian, an endowed position reporting to the Senior Vice President and Provost, serves as the chief academic and administrative leader of the Iowa State University Library. The University Librarian advances the university's land‑grant mission by championing student success, strengthening research excellence, and leading the strategic integration of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. As a member of the university's senior leadership team, the Librarian develops strategy, cultivates partnerships, secures internal and external support, and fosters a culture of innovation and excellence. The position oversees 103 staff, 100 student employees, and 12 library departments, ensuring outstanding services, collections, technology, and research support for the university community.

Required and preferred qualifications, and the complete job description are available in the full position profile linked here.

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, religion, creed, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to the Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. [phone], email [e-mail].