System Librarian

System Librarian

Duke Kunshan University

Job Description

Position Overview:

The System Librarian ensures the reliability, functionality, and long-term sustainability of the library’s technical and archival infrastructure, enabling the university community to efficiently access, preserve, and engage with both current and historical resources. The position exists to manage and optimize the integrated library system (ILS), discovery platform, authentication and access tools, digital repository and archive systems (e.g., Archivematica and AtoM), and other technology platforms essential for resource management, long-term digital preservation, and institutional memory. Its scope encompasses systems administration, data integrity, interoperability across campus platforms, user-experience optimization, digital preservation workflows, and collaborations with IT and external partners. In addition, the librarian provides instruction and training for faculty, students, and staff on system use, digital preservation practices, and technology-enhanced research workflows. The key objective is to maintain a stable, secure, and user-centered systems and archival environment that supports teaching, learning, research, and long-term preservation, while advancing the library’s digital capabilities through strategic planning, technical stewardship, and continuous system enhancement.

Reports to:

University Librarian

Essential Duties:

l Serve as the chief liaison in technology matters, such as hardware and networking to campus IT, DUL, and outside IT service providers, represent the library in collaborative and cooperative technology efforts.

l Troubleshoot problems and promptly report issues/unresolved problems to DUL IT, campus IT, and/or vendors with follow-through until resolution.

l Maintain, support core library systems used for collection management, access, archives and special collections, the institutional repository, and related services, including Alma/Summon, Archivematica/AtoM, RFID services, and access control/security gate systems.

l Provide technical documentation and brief training to internal staff when system or workflow changes occur.

l Provide research and input on new technology systems, software, and equipment to enhance the operation and services of the library.

l Select, install, maintain, and support library hardware, software and equipment.

l Support developing and implementing strategies for storage and long-term preservation of digital collections by working with other relevant library staff.

l Engage in ongoing professional development, including training, workshops, conferences, and self-directed learning to stay current with trends in librarianship, information literacy, AI/technology, and subject liaison areas.

l Contribute to library committees, institutional service, or professional organizations to support the mission and visibility of DKU Library.

l Participate in collaborative initiatives, cross-department projects, or working groups as needed.

l Facilitate and coordinate special library projects.

l Compile statistics, analyze data, and prepare reports relating to areas of responsibilities.

l Supervises staff, interns, and student assistants as needed to provide timely technical support.

l Work toward achieving assigned annual objectives and KPIs, demonstrating accountability for performance and results.

l Perform other duties as assigned.

l University employees' job responsibilities will continue to expand in scope and depth as the University grows in size and complexity in its programs.

Required Qualifications:

l Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited program or international equivalent in related fields or Information Systems, Computer Science with 2 years’ experience working in relevant fields in academic setting; or B.S. in Library and Information Science, Information Science, Computer Science and with at least 4 years’ IT experience working in academic setting.

l Two to three years’ experience in supporting an integrated library system, platforms, and software in an academic library setting. Proficiency in Python or another programming language.

l Demonstrated commitment to high-quality user experience and user services.

l Demonstrated ability to work well independently and as a team member.

l Demonstrated ability to work with database management systems, such as SQL or Oracle or other comparable tools.

l Experience in developing information systems/applications.

l Applied experience in current computer programing languages, application programming interfaces (APIs) and web technologies such as Ruby, PHP, Perl, Python, JSON, XML, CSS, or other comparable tools.

l Understanding of accessibility standards and accessible design.

l Proficiency with one or more scripting languages and coding HTML/CSS (advanced programming skills desired).

l Solid oral and written communication skills in English, proficiency in Chinese is preferred.

l Excellent communication, planning, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

l Knowledge of current and emerging technologies, trends, issues, practices, and methods of developing system applications.

l Experience in supporting library specific software, e.g., OCLC Connexion, ILLIAD, and library specific hardware, e.g., label printers, production scanners etc.

l Experience in supporting web-based content management systems.

l Familiarity with image-based or text-based digital repositories.

l Experience in Apache (Tomcat), Lamp, and/or Java webapp or server.

l Familiarity with digital preservation initiatives, such as open access tools and platforms.

l Working knowledge of MARC and non-MARC metadata standards (e.g., Dublin Core, METS, etc.).

l Familiarity with library technology standards and protocols such as RDA. FRBR, OAI/PHM.

l Familiarity with EZProxy.

l Familiarity with integrated library systems, specifically Aleph or Alma.

l Experience in training, mentoring, and supervising staff or student workers.

l Demonstrated abilities in research, scholarly work, and professional services.