Applying for the Outreach & Assessment Librarian Position: Guidance for International Applicants in the Field of Education

The Outreach & Assessment Librarian position at Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) represents a unique opportunity to join a vibrant institution and make an impact in a bicultural, bilingual environment. If you are an international applicant interested in higher education or academic librarianship in the United States, here are tailored tips to prepare a competitive application and navigate the process successfully:

About TAMIU and the Role

Located in Laredo, Texas, TAMIU is a Hispanic Serving Institution with over 8,000 students. The university is deeply committed to student success, research excellence, and community engagement. This position offers the chance to develop innovative library outreach programs, cultivate relationships across diverse stakeholders, and design strategic assessment activities—all while immersing yourself in a setting enriched by cultural diversity.

The role also includes responsibilities such as managing social media, leading a marketing and outreach team, and coordinating the library’s participation in campus events. If you have a global perspective on education and the ability to connect across cultures, your experience could strongly align with this position.

Key Qualifications and Advice for International Applicants

1. Education Requirements:

– Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Library Science (or an equivalent credential) from an ALA-accredited institution. If you earned your degree outside the U.S., ensure it is recognized as equivalent by the ALA. Consider having your credentials assessed by an organization such as WES (World Education Services) to streamline the evaluation process.
– If you are near the completion of your degree, you may still apply, provided you graduate before the start of the position.

1. Desirable Background and Skills:

– Experience working in diverse, multicultural academic settings.
– Familiarity with outreach programs, social media management, or team leadership.
– Proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative assessment methods.
– A passion for serving first-generation or underrepresented students—highlight experiences that demonstrate this in your application.
– Fluency in languages other than English (especially Spanish) is a strong asset, given the bilingual community surrounding TAMIU.

Tip: When crafting your letter of interest, draw attention to any relevant international library experience, cross-cultural competencies, or transferable skills that demonstrate your readiness to excel in this bicultural role.

1. Visas and Work Authorization:

– International applicants may need sponsorship to work in the U.S. It is recommended to inquire about TAMIU’s policies on H-1B work visas or similar avenues (e.g., Optional Practical Training for recent graduates). Contact the Search Committee Chair, Malynda Dalton (mdalton@tamiu.edu) for clarification. Do this before the interview stage to ensure you understand your visa options.

1. Tailoring Your Application Packet:

– Cover Letter: In addition to addressing the required qualifications, emphasize how your international experience, educational background, or previous outreach initiatives contribute to the university’s goal of fostering a bilingual and multicultural environment.
– Curriculum Vitae (CV): Adapt your CV to follow U.S. academic hiring conventions. For example, include key achievements in outreach, libraries, or marketing, and list any professional development experiences (such as conference participation). Avoid including personal information or photographs, which are common in some international CVs but not in the U.S.
– Academic Transcripts: Provide translated and certified copies of your unofficial transcripts, and ensure they clearly specify your conferred degree. Consider attaching a supporting document explaining the U.S. equivalency of your degree if it was earned abroad.

1. Prepare for the Interview:

– Interviews for U.S. academic roles may include a video call or on-campus component. Research cultural norms for interviewing in academic roles in the U.S. and focus on how your unique background can enhance TAMIU’s goals in outreach, equity, inclusion, and community engagement.
– Be prepared to give concrete examples of past work, such as:
– Hosting library workshops.
– Designing assessment tools for continuous improvement.
– Creating bilingual or culturally tailored marketing campaigns.

Application Submission Details

• Important Deadlines: Submit your application well before the first review date of 4/28/2025, as preference may be given to early applicants. Applications are accepted until the position is filled.
• Ensure all documents are uploaded properly through the <a href="https://tamus.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/TAMIUExternal/job/Laredo-TX/Outreach—Assessment-LibrarianR-081714″>application portal. Note that changes cannot be made after submission, so double-check the completed materials before submission.
• Take time to proofread for clarity and grammar, especially if English is not your first language. A professional translator or career coach specializing in U.S. academic settings may help refine your documents.

Final Thoughts

This Outreach & Assessment Librarian position is ideal for someone passionate about academic libraries, bilingual education, and community-focused engagement. For international applicants, it’s an excellent opportunity to contribute to a U.S. Hispanic Serving Institution committed to cultural exchange and equity. Your global perspective, combined with your ability to work across linguistic and cultural boundaries, can set you apart in this search.

Good luck with your application! For further questions, don’t hesitate to contact the Search Committee Chair at mdalton@tamiu.edu or visit TAMIU’s website for more information about the university and the Killam Library