Indigenous Engagement Librarian (Temporary)

Competition 2291

This position is part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

In accordance with the Temporary Librarian, Administrative and Professional Staff Agreement, this position has a comprehensive benefits package and an annual salary range of $62,231 to $124,387. This position has an initial appointment of 18 months.

Location - This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the University of Alberta Library

The University of Alberta Library is committed to supporting the university’s academic mission by continuing to develop and maintain a world class library system that is open, sustainable and responsive to the many communities it serves. It has a recognized expertise in large scale digital initiatives and many outstanding collections of print, archival and electronic resources. For more information, visit our website at https://www.library.ualberta.ca.

Working within a team environment, under the direction of the Head, Faculty Engagement (Natural + Applied Sciences), the Temporary (TLAPO) Indigenous Engagement Librarian contributes expert knowledge in the provision of services supporting teaching, learning and research in the Indigenous context. The Indigenous Engagement Librarian brings expert knowledge of information behaviour, scholarly communications and relationships with faculty and students to collaborate with librarians and staff who deliver specialized services. The Indigenous Engagement Librarian demonstrates expertise in the use of technology to help users discover, use, and access library services, resources and collections. The Indigenous Engagement Librarian seeks to enhance Library engagement with Indigenous communities within the University and beyond.

Position

In this 18-month temporary position, the Indigenous Engagement Librarian will perform a wide range of collaborative and self-directed activities that focus on meeting the information and research needs of the faculty, staff, and students in the area of Indigenous studies. The Librarian liaises with local communities and University Indigenous groups to ensure library programming and initiatives align with the Library’s strategic initiatives while honouring the practices of Indigenous peoples.

Through a variety of activities, the Indigenous Engagement Librarian will advance the Library’s strategic priority of decolonization and Indigenization, and enhance the value of the Library as a partner in teaching, research, and scholarship related to Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation.

Duties

• Working closely with Indigenous and non-Indigenous faculty, researchers, staff, and students to support learning and research in all disciplines around Indigenous ways of knowing and methodologies.
• Supporting research, teaching, and learning by providing guidance for faculty, students and staff in matters relating to Indigenous library services, collections, and engagement, in collaboration with others at the University of Alberta Library.
• Advising on, and participating in, the integration of Indigenous knowledge with library services and functions, which could include Indigenous research methodologies, teaching and learning activities, information services, and collection development.
• Supporting Indigenous research methodologies and participates in cross-disciplinary and collaborative research, education and outreach, building on Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, traditions, and experiences developed among and in collaboration with First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.
• Independently and in collaboration within the Library and with Faculty Engagement Librarians, developing, teaching and assessing courses, workshops, sections of courses, or single instructional sessions/workshops.
• Evaluating services and collections in assigned areas using evidence-based practices and sharing of information with colleagues.

Qualifications

• A master's degree in Library Science from an ALA-accredited institution or equivalent is required. 
• Previous experience in an academic library setting is required.
• Demonstrated experience working effectively and developing strong professional relationships with Indigenous students, faculty, and communities is required.
• Priority will be given to Indigenous applicants, defined under Section 35(2) of the Constitution Act, 1982 which defines Aboriginal peoples as Indian, Inuit, and Métis.
• Possess a strong service orientation, excellent communication skills, superior information management skills, and a commitment to cooperative and innovative solutions.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based environment, and the ability to be flexible to changing circumstances.
• Possess a high level of competence with electronic information sources and new technologies.
• Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills, organizational and analytical skills, leadership qualities, and evidence of ongoing professional development and involvement.
• Interested in and seek opportunities for conducting research and contributing to the profession.
• Knowledge of Indigenous librarianship, Indigenous research methodologies, and of pedagogical approaches necessary to advance decolonization in library instruction. Experience working with Indigenous resources in multiple formats is an asset.
• Ideally have a relationship with communities local to the lands near to the University. Academic qualifications in Indigenous Studies, knowledge of an Indigenous language, lived experience of Indigenous worldviews and ways of knowing are also assets.

Application Instructions

When applying, please include your cover letter, curriculum vitae and the names of three supervisory references.