Advice for International Applicants: Applying for the Scholarly Communications Librarian Role at Texas A&M International University

Are you interested in fostering open scholarship and supporting academic excellence in an international, multicultural environment? The Scholarly Communications Librarian position at Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of open access initiatives, research data management, and scholarly publishing. Located in Laredo, Texas-a dynamic, bilingual city at the Gateway to Mexico-TAMIU serves as a cultural and intellectual hub for a vibrant, globally interconnected community.

To help international applicants prepare a compelling application that highlights their unique backgrounds and strengths, here is a guide tailored to candidates with international education or experience:

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Understanding the Role from a Global Perspective

As the Scholarly Communications Librarian, you will lead efforts to advance open access (OA), open educational resources (OER), and the dissemination of research. This requires understanding diverse scholarly practices, intellectual property laws, and publishing norms across cultures. Your expertise will help elevate TAMIU’s research profile through innovative programming, collaboration with faculty and students, and support for platforms like the Research Information Online (RIO) repository.

Key International Aspects to Emphasize:

• TAMIU’s diverse and multilingual campus makes this role ideal for librarians with experience or understanding of international or multicultural academic environments.
• An emphasis on promoting open access aligns with global movements for equitable access to knowledge. Those with experience advocating for OER in underserved or international regions will find this a prime opportunity to contribute.
• The position values contributions to first-generation students and underserved populations-a context that will resonate with applicants who have worked with similar student demographics worldwide.

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Application Guide for International Applicants

1. Focus Your Qualifications on Scholarly Communication Trends

When preparing your CV and letter of application, highlight:

• Experience with global trends in scholarly publishing, including open access, Creative Commons licensing, and research repositories. For instance, mention any involvement in regional or international open access networks.
• Collaboration with diverse academic institutions or communities to promote workflows for knowledge dissemination.
• Demonstrated ability to create instructional materials for audiences with diverse linguistic or cultural backgrounds.

2. Tailor Your Philosophy of Librarianship

In your “Philosophy of Librarianship,” consider discussing:

• Your commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in education, particularly through open resources.
• Examples of how international library standards, such as IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations), have influenced your work.
• How your background has equipped you to serve first-generation students as well as culturally diverse communities.

3. Highlight your Technological Expertise with a Global Lens

Cross-cultural digital infrastructure varies widely. Emphasize if you’ve:

• Worked with open access platforms like Digital Commons or Pressbooks in international contexts.
• Implemented publishing tools for underserved or multilingual communities.
• Demonstrated proficiency with research data management in different countries or systems.

4. Address International Credentials and Distinctions

Make it clear how your international qualifications are equivalent to U.S. standards:

• Ensure your master’s degree in Library Science or its equivalent is accredited or comparable to an American Library Association (ALA)-recognized institution.
• If your academic qualifications were earned outside the U.S., include a certified translation and equivalency statement.

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Tips for Preparing a Strong Application

• Write a Localization-Friendly Resume: While showcasing your international experience, avoid jargon that may be unfamiliar in the U.S. context. Use standard library-related terminology (e.g., “cataloging”, “scholarly repository management”) commonly recognized globally.
• Provide Examples of Advocacy: Highlight instances where you have successfully implemented open scholarship or supported underrepresented groups in education, as such examples resonate with TAMIU’s commitment to first-generation students.
• Connect to TAMIU’s Vision: Align your application with the University’s diverse and bilingual identity. Experience with bilingual or multilingual settings, or contributions to cross-border academic partnerships, can set you apart.

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Ensure a Complete Application

Your application must include:

1. CV/Resume: Focused on scholarly communication, with global or cross-cultural examples.
2. Letter of Application: Connecting your international expertise directly to the position responsibilities and TAMIU’s mission.
3. Philosophy of Librarianship Statement: Articulate your values with a global perspective, emphasizing inclusivity and equitable access.
4. Unofficial Transcripts: If your education credentials are from outside the U.S., include certified translations or equivalency documents.
5. References: List contacts who can speak to your qualifications in the context of scholarly communication, particularly in multicultural or international environments.

The application deadline for first consideration is July 8, 2025, but the position remains open until filled.

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Key Benefits for International Applicants

TAMIU provides competitive salaries and benefits, including health insurance, retirement benefits, and professional development funding, which may include conference travel. Moving expenses are also partially or fully covered, making relocation more feasible for international applicants.

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Final Application Steps

Click here to apply online: Scholarly Communications Librarian Application.

For questions about your international qualifications or additional support, contact Caitlin Hummel at Summit Search Solutions:
Phone: (585) 880-7550 | Email: chummel@summitsearchsolutions.com

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By thoughtfully tailoring your application to highlight your international expertise, cultural awareness, and commitment to open scholarship, you can stand out as a valuable candidate for this position. With TAMIU’s global mission and multilingual context, your background could play a vital role in advancing the Library’s efforts to foster academic success across cultural and disciplinary boundaries. Good luck!