Research Librarian - ASC (Replacement)

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University of Ottawa Library

The University of Ottawa Library is looking for an innovative, motivated and service-oriented individual to fill the position of Research Librarian, arts and special collections (ASC) (Replacement). The ideal candidate is a creative and adaptable person who works well with colleagues in a stimulating and changing environment.

Environment:  The University of Ottawa is recognized nationally and internationally as one of the country's top research universities and the largest bilingual (French and English) university in the world.  Located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Anishinaabe-Algonquin people, in the heart of downtown Ottawa, it contributes to the economy, culture and quality of life of Canada's Capital.

Responsibilities: 

Reporting to the Head, Research Support, Arts and Special Collections (ASC) the Research Librarian provides services that support research, scholarship, and learning activities in assigned areas and in support of the broader research mission of the University of Ottawa. Working in an adaptive, team-based environment, the incumbent is responsible for a broad scope of work. Serving as the primary liaison for users in assigned areas, the Research Librarian provides specialized expertise, carries out consultations with users, develops educational materials and research guides, designs and delivers information literacy programs, and cultivates relationships as appropriate. The incumbent is a member of an evolving organization that emphasizes service quality, innovation, and teamwork.

Currently, we are looking for a librarian with expertise or experience relevant to providing services in the following areas: 

• History, Indigenous research and studies, Black history in Canada, philosophy, medieval and renaissance studies, & religious studies.

Main activities:

The Research Librarian is responsible for the following work and activities, both in assigned areas and in support of the goals of the Research Services division and carries out these responsibilities in a team-based environment, using their professional judgement and knowledge.

1. Contribute to institutional research priorities by supporting scholarship throughout the research lifecycle.

2. Provide in-depth consultations for individuals and groups in assigned areas on the use of information resources. Develop educational materials and research guides to enable users to effectively find and use specialized information resources and services. 

3. In collaboration with colleagues providing instructional services across the library, design and deliver information literacy programs in assigned areas to guide faculty and students in the use of the Library’s resources, tools, and services. Identify and pursue opportunities to partner with University of Ottawa colleagues on this work, as appropriate. Collaborate in the ongoing assessment of information literacy programs.

4. Serve as a primary liaison for students, faculty, and staff in assigned areas. Cultivate relationships as appropriate in these areas in order to identify and respond to ongoing needs, as well as to increase awareness and use of the Library’s resources, tools, and services.

5. Provide input on research collections in assigned areas, and communicate collections gaps, issues and opportunities to colleagues in the Content and Access division.

6. Participate in the ongoing assessment of services within the division.

7. Develop and maintain current awareness of, and apply relevant developments and knowledge in assigned areas.

8. Carry out responsibilities in a team environment and under the responsibility of the Head, Research Support (ASC).

9. Perform other related duties as assigned by the Head, Research Support (ASC).

Term: This is an opportunity for a new 12-month non-renewable replacement appointment beginning on January 4th, 2027.

Salary: Rank and salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The expected hiring range for this position would normally be Rank I (salary starting at $73,098) or II (salary starting at $86,623) (As of May 1, 2025)

Benefits: The University of Ottawa provides a complete benefits package which includes long term disability insurance, basic life insurance, supplementary health insurance and optional life insurance.

Workplace: Library, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5.

Contact person: Talia Chung, University Librarian and Dean of Libraries, The University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5.  [email protected] (Please indicate the position).

Required skills:

Education: A Master's degree in Library and Information Sciences (MLIS) from an institution that has been accredited by the American Library Association or equivalent.

Professional experience: 

1. At least two years of professional experience, or fewer depending on the relevance of the experience.

2. Effective oral and written communication skills in both French and English.

3. University degree, preferably at the graduate level, in a field of specialization relevant to the position or an appropriate combination of education and work experience in relevant disciplines.

4. Knowledge of scholarly resources and research methods acquired through studies or professional experience.

5. Experience in the areas of teaching and research support.

6. Collaborative, flexible, and collegial, with the ability to work in a team environment.

7. Problem solving and decision-making skills.

8. Ability to identify areas of opportunity and experience planning and implementing projects and services that are responsive to user needs.

9. Knowledge in one or more of the following fields: History, Indigenous research and studies, Black history in Canada, philosophy, medieval and renaissance studies, & religious studies.

The University of Ottawa Library would like to thank in advance those who have submitted a job application.  Only those selected for an interview will be contacted for the next stage.

The University of Ottawa is committed to ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion in the scholarly and leadership environments of our students, staff, and faculty. Accordingly, we strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples in Canada, visible minorities members (racialized persons), persons with disabilities, women, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with equitable, diverse, and inclusive communities. Candidates who wish to be considered as a member of one or more designated groups are asked to complete the confidential Self-Identification Questionnaire, to be completed at the time of application.

All qualified candidates are invited to apply; however, preference will be given to Canadians and permanent residents. When submitting your application, please indicate if you are legally entitled to work in Canada

The University of Ottawa provides accommodations for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you are invited to proceed in the selection process, please notify us of any accommodations that you require by contacting the Office of the Vice-Provost, Faculty Relations by email at [email protected]. Any information you send us will be handled respectfully and in complete confidence.

The University of Ottawa is proud of its 160-year tradition of bilingualism. Through its Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute, the University provides training to staff members and to their spouses in their second official language.

Prior to May 1, 2022, the University required all students, faculty, staff, and visitors (including contractors) to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 as defined in Policy 129 – Covid-19 Vaccination. This policy was suspended effective May 1, 2022 but may be reinstated at any point in the future depending on public health guidelines and the recommendations of experts.