Archivist/University Archivist; Assistant Librarian or Associate Librarian
Miami University
Oxford, OH
Department: Steward and Sustain
Job Description
Miami University Libraries seek a collaborative, forward-thinking, and service-oriented Archivist/University Archivist; Assistant Librarian or Associate Librarian to provide leadership for the University Archives within the Walter Havighurst Special Collections & Archives department. The Archivist is responsible for the stewardship of archival collections documenting Miami University (1809–), Western College for Women (1853–1974), and Oxford College for Women (1849–1928), ensuring responsible acquisition, preservation, description, access, and engagement with these historically significant resources.
The University Archives includes manuscripts, administrative records, photographs, publications, audiovisual materials, and artifacts that document the institutional history and impact of Miami University and its predecessor institutions. The Archivist will oversee archival operations, develop and promote collections, and support research, instruction, and digital initiatives that enhance the visibility and accessibility of the Archives.
Key Responsibilities
Archival Stewardship & Collection Development
- Lead development, appraisal, and management of institutional archives and manuscript collections documenting Miami University, Western College, and Oxford College.
- Acquire materials through donor relations and campus partnerships; administer Deeds of Gift and guide donors through transfer and documentation processes.
- Manage offsite archival collections and ensure appropriate storage, security, and environmental controls.
Processing, Description & Metadata
- Maintain ArchivesSpace, including creation and management of accession records, resource records, and authority files.
- Arrange and describe archival collections in accordance with professional standards (DACS, EAD, MARC, LCSH).
- Ensure accuracy, consistency, and discoverability of descriptive metadata across platforms.
Digital Preservation & Digital Initiatives
- Strengthen digital preservation programs by developing policies and workflows for born-digital materials, web archives, and digitized content.
- Collaborate with library technology teams on digital repositories, metadata standards, and access systems (e.g., Preservica, CONTENTdm).
- Support digital curation, fixity checking, and long-term preservation planning.
Research Services & Public Engagement
- Provide responsive and expert reference support for researchers, students, faculty, alumni, and external scholars.
- Deliver high-quality public services in person and virtually.
- Create physical and digital exhibits, public programs, and outreach initiatives to promote the Archives and highlight institutional history.
- Contribute to digital storytelling and web-based engagement strategies.
Instruction, Outreach & Campus Liaison Work
- Lead primary source instruction sessions and collaborate with faculty to integrate archival resources into the curriculum.
- Maintain ongoing communication with campus departments to support responsible records stewardship, transfers, and use of archival materials.
- Promote archival resources and services through presentations, social media, and departmental outreach.
Leadership, Supervision & Departmental Contributions
- Provide guidance, training, and problem-solving support for paraprofessionals and student employees using ArchivesSpace and related systems.
- Supervise student staff, fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and growth-oriented work environment.
- Contribute to divisional/departmental planning, strategic initiatives, and professional development activities.
Minimum Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution (or international equivalent) completed by date of appointment. Appointment as Associate Librarian requires an established record of service and scholarship as described in the requirements.
Consideration Will Be Given for Candidates With:
- Knowledge of archival standards, best practices for processing and preservation, and appropriate handling of historical materials.
- Knowledge of archival management systems (e.g., ArchivesSpace), metadata standards, and cataloging workflows.
- 3 or more years of archival experience, preferably in an academic or research library setting.
- Experience using digital preservation platforms (e.g., Preservica, Archive-It, CONTENTdm).
- Experience designing and delivering instruction with primary sources.
- Demonstrated ability to develop exhibits and outreach programming.
- Familiarity with records management principles, legal requirements, and ethical issues in higher education archives.
- Ability to articulate a clear vision for the role of the archives in supporting learning and teaching, research, and community engagement.
- Experience supervising or mentoring students or support staff.
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to meet the Libraries’ promotion and continuing contract requirements.
To learn more and apply, please visit: https://miamioh.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/miamioh-staff/job/Archivist-University-Archivist–Assistant-Librarian-or-Associate-Librarian_JR103681
Required Application Documents:
Resume/CV and cover letter
Special Instructions (if applicable)
Inquiries may be directed to Jacqueline Johnson at johnsoj@miamioh.edu.
Additional Information
A criminal background check is required. All campuses are smoke- and tobacco-free campuses.
This organization participates in E-Verify.
Remote Work
For positions that are approved for remote work: Remote work is not a right, it is a work arrangement that can be modified or revoked by Miami University at any time for any reason, including the convenience of the University.
Reasonable Accommodations
Requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities related to employment should be directed to ADAFacultyStaff@miamioh.edu or 513-529-3560. Questions and follow-ups regarding requests should also be directed here.
Miami University Values Statement
Miami University is a scholarly community whose members believe that a liberal education is grounded in qualities of character as well as of intellect. We respect the dignity of other persons, the rights and property of others, and the right of others to hold and express disparate beliefs. We believe in honesty, integrity, and the importance of moral conduct. We defend the freedom of inquiry that is the heart of learning and combine that freedom with the exercise of judgment and the acceptance of personal responsibility.
For more information on Miami University’s mission and core values, please visit the Mission and Core Values webpage.
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Statement
Miami University, an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, encourages applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Miami University prohibits harassment, discrimination and retaliation on the basis of age (40 years or older), color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military status, national origin (ancestry), pregnancy, race, religion, sex/gender, status as a parent or foster parent, sexual orientation, or protected veteran status in its application and admission processes, educational programs and activities, facilities, programs or employment practices. Requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities related to employment should be directed to ADAFacultyStaff@miamioh.edu or 513-529-3560.
Clery Act
As part of the University’s commitment to maintaining a healthy and safe living, learning, and working environment, we encourage you to read Miami University’s Annual Security & Fire Safety Report at: https://miamioh.edu/life-at-miami/university-safety/annual-report/index.html, which contains information about campus safety, crime statistics, and our drug and alcohol abuse and prevention program designed to prevent the unlawful possession, use, and distribution of drugs and alcohol on campus and at university events and activities. This report also contains information on programs and policies designed to prevent and address sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. Each year, email notification of this website is made to all faculty, staff, and enrolled students. Written notification is also provided to prospective students and employees. Hard copies of the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report may be obtained from the Miami University Police Department at 513-529-2223.
Labor Law Posters for Applicants
Please visit our Labor Law Posters webpage to access all relevant and applicable labor law information.
