Dean of University Libraries

DEAN & UNIV LIBRARIAN

Masters degree in Library Science (MLS) Masters Degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program or earned terminal degree in an appropriate relevant field.

The Dean of University Libraries serves as the chief academic and administrative officer for the George A. Smathers Libraries and reports directly to the Provost. The Dean will lead the universitys library system in advancing research teaching and learning while ensuring the highest level of service to faculty students and the broader academic community.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing a strategic vision for the future of UFs libraries to anticipate and meet the changing needs of our faculty students staff and greater community.
• Managing a $47 million budget and staff of over 250 library professionals faculty and support personnel.
• Expanding digital and print collections to support interdisciplinary research and scholarship.
• Strengthening partnerships with campus stakeholders and external organizations to enhance UFs research enterprise.
• Advocating for library resources and services at the UF and state level and serving as a national and international leader and champion of academic libraries and their constituents.
• Leading fundraising efforts securing grants and cultivating donor relationships to enhance library programs and initiatives.
• Dedication to fostering practices that advance the University Libraries Mission.

The ideal candidate will be a forward-thinking leader with a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of academic libraries.

UFthestatesflagshipinstitution is a top-ranked public research universitylocatedin Gainesville. With 16 colleges a major academic health center and championship-winning athletics UF is a leader in education research and innovation. Its 2000-acre campus integrates historic charm withstate-of-the-artfacilities and preserved natural spaces fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Ranked 7th among U.S. public universities inthe2026U.S. News Best Colleges rankings UF continues to drive advancements across multiple fields.

With over 62000students32000 employees and a$10 billionannual budget UF is amongthelargest and most well-funded universities inthenation. A member oftheprestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) UF boasts 6600 faculty including National Academy members and award-winning 2025 UF research expenditure surpassed$1.3 billiondemonstratinga strong commitment to discovery and technological leads in artificial intelligence education incorporatingAI into 230courses taught by 350 faculty supported byHiPerGatorthemost powerful university-owned supercomputer intheU.S.

UFs strength lies in its comprehensive academic offerings robust state support and forward-thinking vision. With continuous growth and transformation UF is dedicated to its mission to be a premier university that the state nation and world look to for leadership. For more information visit .

The George A. Smathers Libraries system is a leading academic resource serving as members of prominent library organizations such as Association of Research Libraries (ARL) Association of Southeastern Research Libraries (ASERL) Center for Research Libraries (CRL) and Coalition for Networked Information (CNI). Within Florida they are part of Council of State University Libraries (CSUL) and Members Council on Library Services (MCLS) representing all 40 public state universities and colleges. The library system includes seven campus libraries and multiple off-campus facilities making it the largest academic information resource in Florida. These libraries including the Architecture and Fine Arts Library Education Library Health Science Center Libraries Library West Marston Science Library and Smathers Library report to the Dean of University Libraries while the Lawton Chiles Legal Information Center is overseen by the Dean of the Levin College of Law. The system is supported by a staff of over 70 tenured and tenure-track faculty more than 180 professional and technical staff and approximately 150 student employees. For more information visit UF Libraries.

The Smathers Librariessystem house over 5.37 million print microform and tangible volumes alongside access to 4.3 million external online resources including full-text journals e-books streaming media databases and government documents. The University of Florida Digital Collections (UFDC) provide open access to more than 1.2 million items for preservation and scholarly use. These libraries also feature nationally and internationally significant research collections such as the Latin American & Caribbean Collection the Price Library of Judaica the Baldwin Library of Historical Childrens Literature the Map & Imagery Library and the P.K. Yonge Library of Florida the 2024-2025 academic year the Smathers Libraries welcomed over 3.15 million students faculty staff and members of the greater community reinforcing their role as a hub for research and learning at UF.

Gainesville is home to Floridas largest and oldest university as well as a vibrant hub of education healthcare culture and sports in the state. UF and UF Health Shands Hospital are major employers providing jobs for many residents of surrounding counties. The Greater Gainesville area serves as the cultural educational and commercial heart of the north central Florida region. Gainesville offers a full range of municipal services including cultural and administrative support. Renowned for its preservation of historic landmarks and natural beauty the city boasts numerous parks museums and lakes that attract thousands of visitors. With its lush urban forest and Tree City USA designation Gainesville stands out as one of Floridas most picturesque cities. Its central location provides convenient access to both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean offering easy exploration of Floridas famed beaches springs and nature reserves. Explore Gainesville in 60 Seconds.

The University of Florida offers a competitive salary commensurate with similar positions and includes a full benefits package. Click here to view the universitys Total Rewards Benefits plans.

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position please call or the Florida Relay System at (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.

Commensurate with education and experience

Masters degree in Library Science (MLS) Masters Degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program or earned terminal degree in an appropriate relevant field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A strong record of leadership and administrative experience in a research library academic institution or similar enterprise.
• Demonstrated success in budget management fundraising and strategic planning.
• Experience with digital scholarship open-access initiatives and innovative library technologies.
• Be qualified for an appointment at the rank of Assoc/University Librarian.
• A Ph.D. in Library Science MBA or other advanced degree in a relevant field.
• National or international recognition in academic library leadership and scholarship.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

We welcome nominations of and applications for individuals who would bring unique perspectives and experiences to support UFs mission of excellence in education research and student life. Inquiries and nominations can be sent to the .

Candidates must apply online at Careers at UF. For full consideration applications must be submitted by Monday August 24 2026 at 11:55 p.m. with the following required documents:

• Cover letter summarizing experience qualifications and interest in this role
• A complete CV
• List of references for at least three (3) professional contacts that includes the following:
  • Full name
  • Current position
  • Email address
  • Telephone number

Applications received after Monday August 24 2026 at 11:55 p.m. will be reviewed at the discretion of the advisory panel. The position posting will remain open and accept applications until a competitive pool of applicants is established.