Program Coordinator (Kim-Park Book Program)

Library R & L - SCRC - Rare Books Widely known as guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff. Reporting to the Director of the Kim-Park Study of the Book Program, the Program Coordinator will ensure the successful delivery of Study of the Book Program activities, including managing the budget; coordinating fellowship applications and awards; making travel arrangements for visiting scholars; and overseeing event and workshop planning. The Program Coordinator will also be the key communicator of the Study of the Book Program’s activities by maintaining a social media presence and writing news stories and blog posts, as well as developing and maintaining the Program website. The Program Coordinator also plays an important role in maintaining strategic partnerships with centers and programs across campus and in the wider book history community.

The ideal candidate will have a strong voice as a writer, exceptional organizational skills, and a sharp eye for detail as well as knowledge of or interest in book history and/or the materiality and transmission of texts.

• Organize and promote the Program’s lectures, workshops and other activities, including coordinating logistics and liaising with speakers and attendees.
• Develop and maintain a distinctive online presence for the Program, using social media, the website and other communication tools.
• Provide administrative support for day-to-day operations of the program, from managing budgets and awards to overseeing travel arrangements and answering inquiries from students, faculty, and other constituent groups.
• In coordination with Program Director, identify speakers and develop ideas for workshops, seminars, lectures and other events related to the materiality of texts and the history of the book.
• Collect data, maintain records and devise survey instruments for the purpose of determining the Program’s reach and impact.
• In coordination with Program Director, keep donor informed of the Program’s activities.
• Uses general understanding and experience to administer the delivery of services to program participants and/or beneficiaries.
• Interacts with faculty, researchers and staff for committee work or information.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field. Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., history, media studies, English).
• Advanced degree in a related field strongly preferred.

• One (1) year of experience with program coordination, event planning, or administrative work.
• Experience writing for a range audience.
• Experience working in an academic library or special collections setting.

• Knowledge of and interest in topics related to the history of the book, the materiality of texts, literary studies, or information and conservation science.

• Demonstrated organization skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

• Resume/CV (required)
• Professional References List (3) (required)

Administration & Management Individual Contributor 37.5 No No No Salary Exempt $51,000.00 - $60,000.00 Yes