• Establish the vision and direction for the Library’s Rare Books and Special Collections
• Combine curation of rare books with the exploitation of new technologies for access and delivery

The Rare Books and Special Collections of the University Library is one of the major cultural and intellectual assets of the University of Sydney. Established in the 1960s, the collections have expanded through gifts, acquisitions, bequests and endowments to become one of the largest such collections in Australian universities.

Rare Books and Special Collections are part of the Collection, Digital and eScholarship Division of the University Library. The Division has a strong focus on supporting University learning, research and community engagement, and contributes to the University Library being an innovative and trusted information environment, enabling the advancement of knowledge creation and communication.

The role of Manager Rare Books and Special Collections will include the traditional curatorial, collection development and asset management responsibilities of such valuable and significant collections, but extends beyond those activities to include the development and delivery of innovative responses to raise the role, visibility and profile of the collections in support of the University’s research, teaching and community engagement programs. This includes the provision of research support; classes using the collection as a primary resource; functions, events and exhibitions to promote the collections; leadership and engagement in development and fundraising activities; and the design and implementation of digitisation programs and web presence to optimise exposure of the collections. The position also includes the development of local policy, procedures and guidelines appropriate to the use, nature and value of these heritage assets.

• postgraduate qualifications or progress towards postgraduate qualifications and extensive relevant experience, extensive experience and management expertise or equivalent combination
• experience in developing, managing and curating rare book and special collections
• experience managing a relevant small or specialised unit where innovation, initiative and/or expert judgement are required
• experience in the application of new and emerging technologies relevant to the delivery of digital access to rare books and special collections
• a track record in developing successful project proposals and securing external funding
• the ability to develop networks and associations to support future development of the rare book collections.

All applications must be submitted via the University of Sydney careers website. Visit sydney.edu.au/recruitment and search by the reference number for more information and to apply.

The University is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Applications from equity target groups and women are encouraged.