Digital Access & Discovery Librarian

Lead the services that connect our students and researchers with digital content

Our students and researchers rely on a growing range of digital resources, from academic journals and databases to specialist platforms and Open Access content. Behind that access is a complex network of suppliers, systems, authentication, entitlements and discovery services.

We are looking for a Digital Access & Discovery Librarian to join the management of our Content Team and lead this important area of Library service delivery.

This is an opportunity to combine specialist digital library expertise with people and service leadership, shaping how our digital collections are accessed and discovered and helping us continually improve the user experience.

What you'll do

You will:

• Lead digital access, authentication, entitlements and discovery services for our electronic collections.
• Investigate complex access and discovery issues, using service data, user feedback and operational insight to identify recurring problems and lead improvements.
• Increase the visibility and discoverability of Open Access resources, ensuring they are effectively integrated alongside purchased content.
• Manage and monitor electronic resource-related enquiries within the CRM, using data and insights to identify trends, improve services, enhance the user experience, and support evidence-based decision-making.
• Line manage team members within the Reading Lists and Metadata functions, coordinating operational resources and supporting colleagues to develop and deliver effective services.
• Work collaboratively with Library Digital colleagues, publishers, suppliers and platform providers to ensure our digital content and services work effectively for users.

You will also support the Content Manager with wider team management and development, deputising where required, and keep abreast of developments across the sector, including emerging AI-enabled functionality.

What we're looking for

We're looking for someone who can bring:

• Experience and expertise in electronic resources and digital access, with a good understanding of authentication and discovery services.
• Experience of investigating and resolving complex access and discovery issues.
• Knowledge of Open Access and approaches to improving the visibility and discoverability of open content.
• The ability to lead, support and develop colleagues and coordinate resources effectively.
• Confidence working with publishers, suppliers and system providers.
• Strong analytical skills and an evidence-led approach to service improvement.
• The ability to translate technical issues into clear advice for colleagues and stakeholders.
• A collaborative approach and the confidence to contribute to wider team management and service development.

Why join us?

This role offers the opportunity to take real ownership of a specialist and developing area of Library service delivery. You'll combine hands-on professional expertise with management responsibility, work across Content and Digital teams, and have the scope to influence how our services develop as the digital information environment changes.

You'll be joining a collaborative team with the opportunity to develop your professional and leadership experience while making a visible difference to how students and researchers discover and access the resources they need.

What's in it for you?

• Competitive salary - and excellent pension scheme
• An impressive 32 days leave - plus bank holidays, additional time off at Christmas and the opportunity to buy even more!
• Flexible working - we support a culture of flexible and agile working to help you find the right balance
• Professional development - we offer a comprehensive package of training and development opportunities to help you achieve your full potential
• Our community - there's a real sense of belonging here at Salford. We value diversity, in backgrounds and in experiences.  Our difference makes us stronger, and together we share a passion for improving students' lives
• The Perks! - MySalford, our online employee portal offers a wide range of lifestyle benefits and discounts
• A rewarding career - where everything you do will make a difference. To our students, our local community, and the world around you

**Please note this opportunity may close early depending on applicant volume.**

Job Description