Director of Library and Research Services

At Polsinelli, What a Law Firm Should Be, is not just our tagline, it is what we live every day. We strive to create an environment where our team members are encouraged to bring their creativity and professional passions into the workplace so that they can thrive. Are you a people person who has a keen eye for detail, thrives in a professional environment and wants to be part of a dynamic team? We have the perfect role for an engaging professional like you!

Polsinelli PC is seeking a Director of Library and Research Services. This role will be 5 days in-office and can be located in any city with a Polsinelli office.

The Director plays a crucial role in supporting the seamless operation of our Library and Research services, which provides exceptional legal research to our attorneys and works closely with our Legal Operations, Market Intelligence and Practice Innovation teams. We are looking for a proactive leader with a deep understanding of legal research tools, demonstrated experience in team development and change management and a keen eye for how technology – especially AI – is reshaping the legal research landscape. This position will report to the Chief Practice Strategy Officer and Chief of Staff.

Core Responsibilities

• Oversee firm-wide library research services, delivering top-tier legal and non-legal research across a range of tools and technologies, including traditional, online, and Generative AI resources.
• Connect attorneys and LAAs, specialists, paralegals, marketing staff, etc. to relevant information to assist in delivery of legal services.
• Lead the evaluation, selection, and implementation of both print and electronic resources to enhance legal research capabilities.
• Provide strategic direction to improve accessibility and usability across the firm.
• Responsible for leading, assessing and building a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability and excellence.
• Monitor and distribute timely legal and industry information from a variety of sources.
• Market library services and advocate for the efficient use of research tools firm wide.
• Facilitate training programs to enhance research skills and information literacy among legal and non-legal staff.
• Develop and manage the department’s budget with Finance on resource allocation and cost effectiveness.
• Develop and maintain vendor relationships and track vendor roadmaps to guarantee continuous service quality and innovation.
• Develop systems, processes and best practices to support the delivery of legal research to attorneys and clients in effective and proactive ways.
• Work closely with the Director of Practice Innovation to understand tools, resources and products and their tie into Generative AI resources.
• Monitor emerging trends in legal technology, especially in AI-driven research, and identify opportunities for adoption and training.
  
  

Requirements

• A Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS, MLS), Juris Doctor (JD), or equivalent experience in legal research or information management.
• 10 years of experience in law firm or corporate legal research, with at least 3 years in a leadership role within a law firm setting (experience in Big Law or a similar environment preferred).
• Strong strategic planning skills, with experience aligning library service to meet firm-wide goals and practice groups needs
• Expertise in using legal and business research tools, including Westlaw Precision, Bloomberg Law, Lex Machina, LexisNexis, and more.
• Working knowledge of Generative AI applications in legal research is preferred, including experience with tools such as CoCounsel or similar platforms.
• Strong knowledge of library practices, resource management and data accessibility.
• Ability to understand, adapt and proliferate new systems and technologies related to library services and legal research.
• Proficiency using Microsoft Office suite and internal document management systems. Proficiency legal research tools and software (e.g., iManage) is preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; dedication to accuracy, precision and diligence in all deliverables.
  
  

The budgeted salary range for this position is $150,000 - $200,000.

As part of full-time employment associated with this position, Polsinelli PC offers the following benefits: Paid time off, sick time off, a referral program, medical insurance and benefits, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, AD&D insurance, ID Theft insurance, long-term disability benefits, short-term disability benefits, Parking/Transit reimbursement (varies depending on location), 401(k) benefits, and employee assistance benefits.

Polsinelli PC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.