How do they get there? Where do they go? An exploration of senior administrator hiring practices and roles in Canadian academic libraries.

Abstract

The process for hiring and terms of employment of University Librarians/Deans and Associate University Librarians/Associate Deans in Canada varies widely, as does the way in which academic library administrative units are organized. Using a survey method, we asked questions on whether it is most common for libraries to do external vs internal searches for these positions; the composition of the hiring committees; the qualifications of successful candidates; and the terms and conditions of their appointments, such as whether they are able to return to the faculty ranks when their mandates are over. A survey of Canadian university libraries tried to determine commonalities and differences in these hiring processes, as well as the administrative structures of these organizations. This is not a well-studied area, so we hope to contribute to the literature on this topic and aid any academic libraries going through reorganization or changes in administration.