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Library Science Professor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Library Science Professor information

What Does a Library Science Professor Do?

A library science professor teaches library science courses at a college or university. In this career, you teach students what they need to know to pursue a career as a librarian. Your job duties include preparing lessons, lecturing students, and grading assignments and exams. Universities often require professors to also conduct research and publish papers on current topics in their industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Science Professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Science Professor, you need advanced knowledge in library and information science, typically demonstrated by a Ph.D. or relevant master's degree and a strong record of research and publication. Familiarity with academic databases, digital library platforms, and citation management tools is essential for teaching and research. Exceptional communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help professors engage students and collaborate with academic peers. These competencies ensure effective teaching, impactful research, and meaningful contributions to the advancement of the library science field.

What are some common challenges faced by Library Science Professors in balancing teaching, research, and service responsibilities?

Library Science Professors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including teaching courses, conducting research, and engaging in service to their institution and professional community. Balancing these tasks can be challenging, as each area requires significant time and dedication. Professors must manage course preparation and student support, pursue research projects and publications, and participate in committees or outreach activities. Effective time management and clear communication with colleagues are crucial to successfully meeting these diverse expectations while maintaining high standards in each area.

What is the difference between Library Science Professor vs Librarian?

AspectLibrary Science ProfessorLibrarian
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Library Science or related fieldMaster's degree in Library Science or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, universities, research librariesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Employer & Industry UsageHigher education, research institutionsPublic, private, or corporate libraries
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic roles, teaching, researchLibrary services, user assistance, collection management

Library Science Professors primarily work in academic settings, focusing on teaching and research, often holding advanced degrees. Librarians work directly with library users, managing collections and providing information services. While both roles require library science credentials, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

What job categories do people searching Library Science Professor jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Library Science Professor jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Library Science Professor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Library Science Professor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Library Science Professor jobs in VA? For Library Science Professor jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Library Science Professor job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 64% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 17% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 77% Physical, 20% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Open Rank in Library & Information Sciences 2 positions (Tenure Track/Tenured, F0970A)

Open Rank in Library & Information Sciences 2 positions (Tenure Track/Tenured, F0970A)

Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Old Dominion University rating

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Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
Open Rank in Library & Information Sciences 2 positions (Tenure Track/Tenured, F0970A)
Department
STEM ED/PROF STUDIES
Position Number
F0970A F1143A
Job Description
Old Dominion University's Darden College of Education and Professional Studies is inviting applications for two Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor in the Library & Information Studies program. This is a 10-month, academic year position that will begin July 25, 2026 and will contribute to the advancement of our Master of Library & Information Studies program with a commitment to academic excellence in research and teaching. The department is committed to recruiting, supporting, and fostering a diverse community of outstanding faculty, graduate students, and staff.
The primary responsibilities for this position are to:
  • Produce high quality research for publication in top-ranked journals.
  • Teach and develop graduate level, distance-education courses in librarianship and information studies.
  • Contribute to systematic planning and development of the library and information studies program.
  • Seek external funding opportunities to support scholarly activities.
  • Participate in the professional and intellectual community through professional and university service.

Position Type
FullTime
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Minimum required education and/or special licenses, registrations, trainings, or certifications
An earned doctorate from a regionally accredited university in library/information sciences or a related field by August 1, 2026.
Minimum required level and type of experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities
  1. Strong potential or history of research and scholarly activities.
  2. Demonstrated or potential ability to teach one or more of these MLIS Core classes. Knowledge Organization, Knowledge Resources, Library Management & Leadership.
  3. A record of service and leadership in the profession.
  4. Candidates interested in the senior faculty position must have the requisite scholarly record to warrant a tenured appointment in the department

Preferred Qualifications
  • An MLS/MLIS from an ALA accredited program.
  • A demonstrated commitment to diversity.
  • The ability to work collaboratively.
  • Experience with effective and innovative online, asynchronous instruction.
  • A record of peer-reviewed publications and/or external grant experience.
  • Interest and experience in research and teaching in new and emerging areas of library and information studies pr archival, scholarly communications, and/or preservation studies.
  • Professional and/or teaching experience in libraries, archives, or information organization.

Conditions of Employment
Location
Norfolk, VA
Job Open Date
09/15/2025
Application Review Date
01/15/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Application Instructions
Interested candidates must submit application materials electronically at https://jobs.odu.edu/postings/22967, including the following:
  1. Letter of Interest indicating your interest in either a tenure track or tenured appointment.
  2. Curriculum Vitae
  3. Research Statement
  4. Samples of scholarly writing/publications
  5. Unofficial Graduate Transcripts
  6. Names and contact information for three professional references

For questions concerning the position, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Elizabeth Burns, eburns@odu.edu.
Applications should be submitted by January 15, 2026, for full consideration. The position will remain open until it is filled.
Telework Friendly
No
Reasonable Accommodation Request
If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation, please contact the Division of Talent Management and Culture at (757)683-3141.
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or © consistent with contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
About the College
https://www.odu.edu/eps
About the Department
https://www.odu.edu/stemps

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