Adjunct Librarian, W.P. Scott Chair in Librarianship

Adjunct Librarian, W.P. Scott Chair in Librarianship
Student Learning and Academic Success, York University LibrariesThe Student Learning and Academic Success, York University Libraries (YUL) at York University invites highly qualified applicants for an Adjunct Librarian position as the W.P. Scott Chair in Librarianship. This is a Contractually Limited Appointment (CLA) for a two-year term to commence August 1, 2024.The successful candidate will engage in interdisciplinary research and development that will advance libraries and librarianship. The 2024 W.P. Scott Chair in Librarianship provides an exciting opportunity to accelerate the development of librarianship, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), in support of research, teaching and learning.

The position will advance our understanding of AI in the academic library context with a focus on teaching and learning implications. The project could include a wide range of activities, such as researching and co-developing an AI and algorithmic literacy program or module, investigating the potential of responsive learning systems or intelligent user interfaces to support the Libraries’ instructional program, developing a shareable curriculum based on UNESCO’s AI Competency Framework and AI learning outcomes and curriculum developed by the Ontario Ministry of Education, making recommendations on next steps for teaching and learning in academic libraries, and/or conducting research on policy and privacy concerns related to AI in the teaching & learning context. We seek candidates who demonstrate a strong interdisciplinary approach and commitment to research that engages with theoretical models from disciplines within and outside of information studies.

There is wide scope for the successful candidate to propose projects related to their research interests in AI, with the expectation that the project will contribute to YUL’s teaching and learning goals and the context at York University.

Projects and responsibilities:

• carry out a research project advancing AI in teaching and learning in libraries;
• co-develop an AI literacy-related project in collaboration with the Student Learning and Academic Success department, the Teaching Commons, and the office of the Vice-Provost, Teaching and Learning. Examples might include: an AI literacy e-learning module or modules; an AI hack-a-thon
• explore emerging technologies in the area of AI along with members of YUL’s new AI Community of Practice, and teach students, faculty, and library staff how to use them effectively and ethically for experimentation, coursework, and research;
• collaborate with the office of the Vice-Provost, Teaching & Learning to develop an AI speaker series to support greater literacy and dialogue across the University;
• deliver a W.P. Scott symposium, workshop or lecture series related to the research theme that is open to the public;
• present to members of YUL and others on proposed research activities and the results of research and development activities;
• prepare and submit an annual report and a final report of research activities to the Dean of Libraries;
• undertake research consultations and teaching responsibilities in an assigned subject area.

Candidate Qualifications:

• Degree: Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program or its recognized equivalent in field/related field is required.

Demonstrated:

• Experience with conducting large research projects and evidence of research contributions in the form of publications or other scholarly output
• Leadership capacity and evidence of building effective working relationships with a variety of colleagues and stakeholders
• Aptitude for adapting to new responsibilities and environments, independent learning and engagement with technology and software, including self-sufficient technical troubleshooting

Experience with:

• Advancing new programmatic areas and outreach programs and engaging stakeholders in these developments
• Implementing projects using project management techniques
• Engaging in effective teaching practices

Knowledge of:

• Intelligent user interfaces or responsive learning systems (or awareness of)
• ACRL Framework for Information Literacy, critical information literacy, universal design for learning, and other inclusive pedagogies
• Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
• Data literacy, including algorithmic transparency
• Emerging technologies – including large language models and artificial intelligence

Additional:

Excellent interpersonal, communication, writing and presentation skills
Superior written and spoken communication in English
Experience with directing a large-scale project is an asset

Hiring Policies:
• Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• All York University positions are subject to budgetary approval.
• York is an Affirmative Action (AA) employer and strongly values diversity, including gender and sexual diversity, in its community. Details of the AA Program, which applies to women, members of racialized groups, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQ+, can be found here or by contacting Christal Chapman, EDI Program Manager ([email protected]; 416-736-5713).
• York welcomes and employs scholars from all over the world. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens, permanent residents and Indigenous peoples of Canada will be given priority.
• York has a policy on Accommodation in Employment for Persons with Disabilities and is committed to working towards a barrier-free workplace and expanding the accessibility of the workplace to persons with disabilities. Applicants who require accommodation are invited to contact the chair of the search committee at [email protected].

Application Process:
• Due date for completed applications: April 19th, 2024
• Required materials: 1) current CV; a statement of research interest detailing their project and any projected infrastructural support needs, staffing, and/or funding required to complete the project within the 2-year time frame, and a cover letter addressing the stated qualifications and experience relevant to the responsibilities. Candidates who proceed to a final interview will later be asked to provide names and contact information for three professional references.
• Provide required information regarding your Canadian work status and optional self-identification for Affirmative Action purposes as part of the online application.
• Direct questions about the position to chair of the search committee at [email protected].
• Submit materials: at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YULScottChair

Learn More About York:
• York University generates and shares knowledge through our research, teaching and engagement with communities around the world. The 2023-2028 Strategic Research Plan showcases the depth, breadth and ambition of research at York.
• York’s commitments to social justice are laid out in our Decolonizing, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, the Framework & Action Plan on Black Inclusion and the Indigenous Framework for York University.
• Follow the activities and accomplishments of York’s faculty, students and staff on YFile.

York University acknowledges its presence on the traditional territory of many Indigenous Nations. The area known as Tkaronto has been care taken by the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, and the Huron-Wendat. It is now home to many First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities. We acknowledge the current treaty holders, the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. This territory is subject of the Dish with One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, an agreement to peaceably share and care for the Great Lakes region.