Digital Library Federation
Head of the Kheel Center for Labor-Management Documentation & Archives
Digital Library Federation, Northeast Ithaca, New York, United States
Cornell University Library seeks a collaborative, forward‑thinking leader to serve as the Head of the Kheel Center for Labor‑Management Documentation & Archives (Kheel Head). This unique position offers the opportunity to guide one of the nation’s premier archives on labor and workplace history, advancing special collections in support of Cornell’s mission of research, teaching, and public engagement.
Background The Kheel Center for Labor‑Management Documentation & Archives collects, preserves, and makes accessible special collections pertaining to the history of the workplace and labor relations. Located within the Martin P. Catherwood Library, the Center maintains unique and rare materials in the field of industrial and labor relations, including records of labor unions, personnel managers, government agencies, advocacy groups, and labor scholars. The records support the study of a wide variety of topics, from child labor and the Cold War’s impact on unions to labor’s fight against sweatshops and scientific management. As a key part of Cornell University Library, the Center ensures that its collections are accessible and relevant through expert instruction, a robust digital presence, and outreach to faculty, students, external researchers, and communities.
Duties and Responsibilities Reporting to the Associate University Librarian for Special Collections, the incumbent provides leadership for the Kheel Center, overseeing acquisition and stewardship of collections, professional development of personnel, financial resources, and contributions to Library activities. The Head will collaborate closely with Library leaders and partners at the ILR School and across Cornell to position Kheel’s engagement within the Library, across Cornell, and for the public good. Key responsibilities include:
Managing collections, access, and discovery services for research and teaching.
Expanding access to holdings, addressing backlogs, and improving metadata.
Guiding AI and emerging technology opportunities in special collections.
Fostering an inclusive, collaborative work culture that supports staff professional development.
Cultivating external support, stewarding donors, and promoting Library collections and services.
Contributing to the academic faculty body and advancing the stature of Cornell University Library.
Required Qualifications
Minimum 5 years of successful professional experience in special collections, archives, or a research center with historical or permanent collections.
Graduate degree in library and information science, archival studies, or a relevant discipline, with training in special collections or archival practices.
American history or labor relations coursework with experience in primary source research.
Knowledge of cultural heritage standards, ethical stewardship, and key trends in academic libraries.
Commitment to fostering an open and inclusive educational environment and ability to work effectively with a varied faculty and student population.
Demonstrated analytical, problem‑solving, and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Successful supervisory experience within an academic or research library.
Specialization in labor history or labor relations through archival experience or coursework.
Experience with instruction, outreach, or engaged collection programs.
A strong professional reputation relevant to leadership of special collections, evidenced by service, scholarship, or awards.
Location Ithaca, New York. The selected candidate will work on campus at least four days per week, with the possibility of a flexible work arrangement allowing remote work up to one day per week.
Benefits Our comprehensive benefits package includes 22 vacation days, 13 paid holidays, health insurance, life insurance, university retirement contributions, childcare and adoption assistance, child tuition reimbursement, and funding to support professional training and research. The anticipated academic rank is Associate Archivist, with an anticipated salary range of $78,000–$110,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Relocation assistance may be provided. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
How to Apply All candidates must apply online via the Cornell Careers site: search for Workday requisition WDR-00055915. Applications are reviewed as they are received, and we will begin interviewing selected candidates immediately. We anticipate closing this posting on December 11, 2025; early submission is strongly encouraged. consideration, please include the following with your application:
A cover letter.
A curriculum vitae.
EEO Statement Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “any person, any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subject to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship, color, sex, pregnancy, age, creed, religion, disability, arrest or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified veterans and individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. A lawful preference is also recognized for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Background The Kheel Center for Labor‑Management Documentation & Archives collects, preserves, and makes accessible special collections pertaining to the history of the workplace and labor relations. Located within the Martin P. Catherwood Library, the Center maintains unique and rare materials in the field of industrial and labor relations, including records of labor unions, personnel managers, government agencies, advocacy groups, and labor scholars. The records support the study of a wide variety of topics, from child labor and the Cold War’s impact on unions to labor’s fight against sweatshops and scientific management. As a key part of Cornell University Library, the Center ensures that its collections are accessible and relevant through expert instruction, a robust digital presence, and outreach to faculty, students, external researchers, and communities.
Duties and Responsibilities Reporting to the Associate University Librarian for Special Collections, the incumbent provides leadership for the Kheel Center, overseeing acquisition and stewardship of collections, professional development of personnel, financial resources, and contributions to Library activities. The Head will collaborate closely with Library leaders and partners at the ILR School and across Cornell to position Kheel’s engagement within the Library, across Cornell, and for the public good. Key responsibilities include:
Managing collections, access, and discovery services for research and teaching.
Expanding access to holdings, addressing backlogs, and improving metadata.
Guiding AI and emerging technology opportunities in special collections.
Fostering an inclusive, collaborative work culture that supports staff professional development.
Cultivating external support, stewarding donors, and promoting Library collections and services.
Contributing to the academic faculty body and advancing the stature of Cornell University Library.
Required Qualifications
Minimum 5 years of successful professional experience in special collections, archives, or a research center with historical or permanent collections.
Graduate degree in library and information science, archival studies, or a relevant discipline, with training in special collections or archival practices.
American history or labor relations coursework with experience in primary source research.
Knowledge of cultural heritage standards, ethical stewardship, and key trends in academic libraries.
Commitment to fostering an open and inclusive educational environment and ability to work effectively with a varied faculty and student population.
Demonstrated analytical, problem‑solving, and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Successful supervisory experience within an academic or research library.
Specialization in labor history or labor relations through archival experience or coursework.
Experience with instruction, outreach, or engaged collection programs.
A strong professional reputation relevant to leadership of special collections, evidenced by service, scholarship, or awards.
Location Ithaca, New York. The selected candidate will work on campus at least four days per week, with the possibility of a flexible work arrangement allowing remote work up to one day per week.
Benefits Our comprehensive benefits package includes 22 vacation days, 13 paid holidays, health insurance, life insurance, university retirement contributions, childcare and adoption assistance, child tuition reimbursement, and funding to support professional training and research. The anticipated academic rank is Associate Archivist, with an anticipated salary range of $78,000–$110,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Relocation assistance may be provided. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
How to Apply All candidates must apply online via the Cornell Careers site: search for Workday requisition WDR-00055915. Applications are reviewed as they are received, and we will begin interviewing selected candidates immediately. We anticipate closing this posting on December 11, 2025; early submission is strongly encouraged. consideration, please include the following with your application:
A cover letter.
A curriculum vitae.
EEO Statement Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world‑class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “any person, any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subject to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship, color, sex, pregnancy, age, creed, religion, disability, arrest or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified veterans and individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. A lawful preference is also recognized for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.
#J-18808-Ljbffr