Helpful Advice for International Applicants Applying to the Metadata & Cataloging Librarian Position:

The Metadata & Cataloging Librarian position at Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to an institution with a strong commitment to diversity, internationalization, and student success. If you are an international applicant or scholar with global experience and credentials, here’s tailored advice to help you put your best foot forward when applying for this role at the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library.

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Understand the Core Values of TAMIU:

• International Focus: TAMIU prides itself on being a cultural and intellectual hub located at the U.S.-Mexico border, with a mission rooted in fostering global understanding. Highlight any experience you’ve had working in multicultural, multilingual environments or with international educational institutions.
• Serving First-Generation Students: If you have experience mentoring, teaching, or supporting first-generation college students, underscore this in your application, as it aligns with a preferred qualification for the position.
• Commitment to Service and Innovation: TAMIU seeks candidates who demonstrate a passion for service, innovative thinking, and adaptability to evolving trends in library science.

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Application Tips Based on International Education Standards:

1. Tailor Your CV/Resume:

– Highlight your credentials, especially if they align with the job’s specific requirements, including metadata standards (e.g., MARC, RDA, AACR2) and cataloging tools (e.g., MarcEdit, Open Refine, Alma).
– If your library science degree was earned outside the U.S., ensure that your qualifications are equivalent to an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited program. You may mention certifications or equivalency assessments, if applicable.

1. Showcase Your Multilingual/Multicultural Expertise:

– Considering TAMIU’s location near the border and its focus on diversity, include proficiency in languages other than English (e.g., Spanish or any other widely used language in libraries across the globe).
– Discuss any library projects or roles where you worked with diverse populations or supported access to resources in global contexts.

1. Emphasize Your Commitment to Professional Growth:

– The university encourages professional development, including conference attendance, which is covered under its benefits plan. Demonstrate your active engagement with professional organizations, conferences, or training focuses, highlighting a global or cultural perspective.

1. Contextualize Your Experience with Technology:

– If you’ve worked in technology-driven library roles internationally (especially with repositories, digital collections, or tools tailored to non-MARC schema like Dublin Core), explain how these experiences prepare you to innovate or update workflows for an academic library.

1. Give Focus to Your Librarianship Philosophy:

– In your “Philosophy of Librarianship” statement, reflect on your ideals as a librarian in a globalized world. Address how your cataloging and metadata expertise furthers equity in education and access to knowledge, especially in diverse or international contexts.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the U.S. Hiring Process:

– Transcripts: If your qualifications are from non-U.S. institutions, provide translations or an evaluation of your transcript if required.
– Professional References: It’s essential to include references familiar with your knowledge of cataloging standards and your adaptability in collaborative library environments. Give advanced notice to your references to ensure they’re prepared to offer glowing endorsements of your work.
– Compliance with Visa Sponsorships: TAMIU explicitly states its commitment to equal opportunity, but you may want to confirm with Summit Search Solutions whether visa sponsorship is provided for this position if you are not currently authorized to work in the U.S.

1. Meet Deadlines:

– The review of applications begins July 8, 2025, but the position remains open until filled. Given this, it’s advantageous to submit early to be part of the initial applicant pool.

1. Use the Application Checklist:

Ensure you include the following documents:
– A CV/resume.
– A detailed cover letter addressing the required and preferred qualifications.
– A written Philosophy of Librarianship statement-tailor this to TAMIU’s international focus and diverse student population.
– Unofficial transcripts, especially if you’re near completion of your degree.
– Names and contact information of three references.

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What Makes TAMIU Unique for International Librarians:

TAMIU offers a distinctive opportunity to work in one of the most diverse and dynamic academic settings in the U.S. Here’s what you should know:

• Its position at the Gateway to Mexico makes it a crossroads for global collaboration.
• The Killam Library is equipped with cutting-edge tools and continues to grow through exciting new developments (e.g., the RIO repository for digital materials).
• Joining TAMIU means contributing to a welcoming environment that emphasizes access to knowledge through innovative approaches.

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Summary of Steps for International Applicants:

1. Determine if your degree meets ALA-equivalent standards.
2. Highlight experience with international, multilingual, and diverse communities.
3. Craft a strong philosophy of librarianship reflecting global best practices.
4. Tailor your CV to emphasize professional development and cataloging expertise.
5. Check compliance with work authorization requirements.
6. Submit your full application package by the priority deadline (July 8, 2025) and reach out to Summit Search Solutions with any additional questions.

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Working as Metadata & Cataloging Librarian at TAMIU is an exceptional chance to bring your international insights and expertise to an environment that values diversity, collaboration, and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned academic librarian or an emerging professional, we encourage you to apply and share how your unique background aligns with TAMIU’s forward-thinking mission