Head of Library, Archive and Evidence

RCVS Knowledge is a charity with a mission to advance the quality of veterinary care for the benefit of animals, the public and society. We empower and support veterinary teams to provide evidence-based, quality care and improved animal health and welfare outcomes. We are the charity partner of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). 

We are looking for a proactive, collaborative library professional to lead our library, archives and evidence function into its next phase of development and growth. 

With a commitment to delivering high-quality services, you will be forward-thinking in driving increased usage of our library and greater visibility for the stories and insights contained within our archive and historical book collection. You’ll have an excellent understanding of what makes a modern, engaging library and information service, and the strategic vision and operational leadership skills to put it into practice. 

As a member of our senior team, you’ll contribute to strategic discussions that shape the broader development of the charity, as well as being responsible for monitoring and achieving delivery and financial targets for your team. You will take a proactive approach to identifying and capitalising on opportunities to generate income from our library and archive. Your excellent people skills will enable you to forge strong working relationships with colleagues and to develop excellent relationships with external stakeholders to advance the profile of the organisation. 

It’s an exciting time to join us, as we embark on a new five-year organisational strategy, move into a new home at the new RCVS building in central London, and explore how new technologies can extend reach and engagement with our services and resources. 

We welcome hybrid and flexible working. For this full-time role, the post-holder will need to work on site in central London for at least three days per week. 

Key responsibilities 

Library and information service 

• Ensure provision of a high-quality library and information service
• Develop the strategy for the library and information service, focusing on innovative approaches to income generation, partnerships and leveraging digital technology to enhance service delivery
• Grow the library membership through market analysis and a range of marketing activities, working with the communications and marketing team

Archive and historical book collection 

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the archive and historical book collection, including resource management, collection development and outreach strategies 
• Develop innovative ways to engage more veterinary professionals and the public with the heritage collection
• Identify and capitalise on opportunities to generate income from the archive and historical book collection, such as through grant funding or philanthropic support 

Evidence

• Oversee the development and delivery of resources to promote evidence-based veterinary medicine
• Provide leadership to the Veterinary Evidence team
• Identify and deliver on opportunities to increase readership of the Veterinary Evidence journal, working with the communications and marketing team 

Other

• Be a visible advocate for the library, archive and Veterinary Evidence journal
• Lead and motivate team members
• Manage budgets, reviewing expenditure and exploring additional income streams
• Provide guidance on legal issues in information provision such as copyright and data protection
• Contribute actively to the overall strategic development and performance of RCVS Knowledge through being part of the senior team 

For full job description, person specification and how to apply, please click on the 'Apply' button above.

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