The Reference and User Services Association (RUSA) seeks applicants for the position of editor or co-editors of Reference & User Services Quarterly (RUSQ).
The term is for three years, with the possibility of renewal for a second term. The editor may not serve longer than six consecutive years. The RUSQ editor should be a member of the American Library Association, preferred membership in RUSA and should hold an ALA-accredited Masters in Library Science.
Scope:
RUSQ, the official publication of RUSA, has been published for fifty years. RUSQ is a peer-reviewed, open access journal that publishes a blend of practical and empirically based articles on issues that widely impact reference and public services librarians. Beginning with the Fall 2011 issue (volume 51, number 1), RUSQ is published in a digital format only. Beginning with the Fall 2017 issue, RUSQ is fully open access.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The RUSQ Editor appoints qualified members to the RUSQ Editorial Advisory Board, manages the submission and review process, takes responsibility for the final selection of articles accepted for publication, manages the work of column editors, edits manuscripts, reviews proofs prior to publication, works with ALA Production Services on layout and design and communicates regularly to the RUSA Board of Directors.
Qualifications:
Applicants should possess the following qualifications and attributes:
• Knowledge of the profession
• Connections in the reference community to help recruit authors
• Keen editorial eye
• Understanding of Chicago Manual of Style guidelines
• Ability to work quickly under deadlines
• Ability to work with authors and edit firmly but gently
• Knowledge of trends in scholarly publication
• Have experience reviewing manuscripts and understand all aspects of journal publication
• Editing experience, e.g., assistant/associate editor, guest editor, or reviewer
• Managerial skills to oversee the editorial cycle and meet deadlines
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication skills
• Willingness to make a considerable time commitment.
Application Process:
By November 15, 2017, interested individuals should submit an application that contains the following: 1) a current vita 2) a vision statement offering ideas about their vision for the journal 3) a statement regarding institutional support and resources, and 4) names of three to five references. Submit all completed applications to: Barry Trott, Chair, RUSQ Editor Selection Committee. Email: btrott@wrl.org.
The successful candidate will become Editor-Designate on February 1, 2018 and will assume the position of Editor on July 1, 2018. This is an unpaid volunteer position. However, financial support is provided for travel to the ALA Midwinter Meeting and Annual Conference.