Head of KNIR Library and Special Collections (0.8 – 1.0 FTE)

Updated: about 2 months ago
Deadline: 06 Mar 2024

KNIR Library & Special Collections

Founded in 1904, the Royal Netherlands Institute in Rome (KNIR) is a hub of international research and academic teaching, supporting the fields of ancient studies and archaeology, art history and history in particular but not only. The Dutch institute has a handsome research library and a series of other unique collections, ranging from archaeological material culture to archival and digital datasets, as well as other electronic resources. The library staff consists of the Head, a fulltime library and IT assistant, and a half time librarian. The library and special collections cater to the research needs of the KNIR community of students, faculty, and researchers as well as the wider academic community in Rome. We are looking for a colleague with a broad outlook who will head the library as well as the variegated special collections, and who will contribute to the research mission of the KNIR.

The position of Head KNIR Library & Special Collections
The Head develops, together with the scientific staff, a future-oriented strategy for the collection development and its accessibility. The Head is responsible for overseeing all aspects of library operation and administration, including planning, budget and resource management, and supervising the library staff. The Head will also coordinate the management of the special collections and historical archives of the institute, which are preserved both at the institute in Rome and by archival partner institutions in the Netherlands, with whom we closely collaborate.

The Head fosters relationships with other academic libraries, consortia, and related peer groups through outreach and participation in local, national, and international organizations. There is a close connection between KNIR’s library and the library of the University of Groningen, the lead institution of KNIR. Also, the Head participates in the intellectual life of the institute, engaging in scholarly/professional development activities, and will have a limited role in educational activities related to KNIR's (special) collections, such as the Mining Library Treasures course.


We offer an attractive job within a vibrant and stimulating international academic institute. In accordance with the regulations for local staff of the Dutch embassy in Italy (RrLok/PUW, we offer also:

  • a salary ranging from € 3,117 up to € 4,669 (salary scale 8) gross per month for a full-time position commensurate with relevant experience and education
  • a holiday allowance of 8.3% gross annual income and an 8.3% year-end bonus.

Initially, we offer a time-limited employment for one year. If the outcome of the evaluation after one year is positive, the appointment will be prolonged for an indefinite term.

The starting date is 1 June 2024.



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