Library Systems Analyst

General Summary

The Library Systems Analyst (LSA) is a librarian position reporting to the manager of Integrated Library Systems (ILS) at the University of Chicago Library.

ILS performs operational support, programming, and systems analysis for library systems used by library staff and the public. ILS has particular responsibility for the FOLIO open-source library services platform (LSP), indexing for the VuFind discovery system, and other ancillary systems that Library operations rely on.

The LSA provides analysis and support for various ILS-supported systems and integrations, with special emphasis on FOLIO. The LSA takes a leadership role in working with library staff in key positions throughout the library to ensure the needs of departments are met by systems supported by ILS and to provide communications on ILS activities and decisions relevant to all users of ILS-supported systems. The LSA works with library staff to analyze their needs and to help determine appropriate software and/or application configurations, training, and documentation to meet those needs.

The LSA develops functional and technical specifications and procedures related to systems and applications and acts as a bridge between functional experts and technical staff. The LSA participates in project teams, manages projects of moderate and large size, and acts as both the primary resource to library staff on computer systems capabilities and as a primary resource for ILS technical staff on library operations. The LSA takes a lead role organizing testing, upgrade activities, and developing requirements for UChicago's FOLIO implementation. The LSA provides production support and acts as a point of contact with our providers and partners, and participates in the broader FOLIO community.

The LSA keeps abreast of developments in national standards and information technology as may affect current systems. The LSA serves on committees, work groups, task forces, etc. as may be assigned or appropriate. The LSA may also provide support and analysis for systems used at the consortial level, such as Platform for Open Discovery and ReShare.

Essential Functions

Responsibilities:

  • Translate business needs of Library units into functional requirements and technical specifications for systems/solutions.
  • Perform and coordinate testing of new or updated systems.
  • Provide troubleshooting and support for FOLIO and other ILS-supported systems.
  • Liaise with external system providers and partners for problem reporting and resolution, submitting enhancement requests and providing input on proposed changes or new products.
  • Document local implementation decisions.
  • Develop and deliver training for ILS-supported systems.
  • Provide analysis and support for management reports from ILS-supported systems.
  • Serve a project lead for projects of various sizes, may serve as project manager.
  • Participate in FOLIO community and other collaborations as appropriate.

Minimum Requirements

  • ALA-accredited Master’s degree, an advanced degree in a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
  • 3 years' experience working with library systems or in related industry experience.
  • Familiarity with applicable library and IT standards.
  • Demonstrated project management skills.

Preferred Experience or Skills

  • Broad familiarity with library functions and systems that support them.
  • Experience with an academic research library and/or LSP.
  • Experience with systems and workflow analysis.
  • Experience leading inter- or intra-department groups in maintaining systems.
  • Experience facilitating conversations with diverse stakeholders, such as functional experts and developers or vendors.
  • Experience developing and facilitating training sessions.
  • Familiarity with technologies such as SQL, JSON, XML, and/or Web APIs.
  • Familiarity with computer programming languages such as Python or Java.
  • Excellent written and oral communications skills.

Required Documents

C.V.

Cover Letter

Contact Reference

Application Instructions

To Apply: Submit cover letter, curriculum vitae, and reference contact information online through the University of Chicago's Academic Recruiting website:

apply.interfolio.com/127216. Review of applications will begin after July 21, 2023. Screening of applications will continue until the position is filled or the search is closed.

Salary and Benefits: Appointment salary based on qualifications and experience. Benefits include a retirement plan, insurance, and paid time off.

Questions: Contact Library Human Resources at libraryhr@uchicago.edu

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.