Director, Master of Library and Information Studies Program

About the role

The University of Arkansas Libraries seeks a Director for its new Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) program. This twelve‑month, tenure‑track faculty appointment will lead the development and administration of the first graduate library science program in the state.

Key responsibilities

• Provide vision, leadership, and day‑to‑day administration for the MLIS program, establishing policies and strategic direction.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the program, library leadership, campus partners, and external stakeholders.
• Oversee student recruiting, admissions, orientation, and communications.
• Lead curriculum development, course scheduling, staffing, and program assessment in collaboration with faculty.
• Mentor and coordinate workload for program faculty alongside the Dean of Libraries.
• Manage the program’s budget and approve expenditures.
• Guide the program toward ALA accreditation, preparing self‑study and candidacy materials.
• Teach two courses each fall and spring semester and advise graduate students.
• Maintain an active research and scholarship agenda consistent with tenure expectations.

Required profile

• Earned doctoral degree (Ph.D., Ed.D., or equivalent) in Library and Information Science, Higher Education, or a closely related field, conferred by June 1 2027.
• Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) from an ALA‑accredited program.
• Demonstrated experience teaching in higher education.
• Strong collaborative, management, and communication abilities.
• Ability to navigate a complex academic environment and work with diverse stakeholders.

Required skills

• Experience with curriculum development and program assessment.
• Knowledge of American Library Association accreditation processes.

What we offer

• University benefits including health, dental, life and disability insurance, tuition waivers, paid holidays, leave accrual, and retirement contributions.