I recently interviewed at a wonderful academic library and, in my all-consuming effort to do well, I neglected to ask a basic but important question of the Search Committee: what is their projected time line for hiring an applicant? It has been about a week so far, and I certainly don't expect a decision this soon (knowing full well how protracted this process tends to be at academic institutions), but it would help to at least have a basic time frame in mind. Would it be acceptable if I emailed my contact and asked for an approximate time line? I'd feel more comfortable posing the question if I had even an inkling of another offer, but, alas, I don't. I'd also feel more comfortable if my contact was a relatively neutral party (such as an HR representative) but he happens to be a pretty important administrator and a member of the Search Committee. I don't want to come off as annoying or sound impatient; but at the same time, I feel as if this is a very reasonable question (and I curse myself for not asking it when it would have been most natural and appropriate).

Has anyone had to do this? What would any of you who have served on Search Committees think if an applicant followed up with this question? I'd appreciate any advice.

Oh, and I forgot how absolutely grueling the waiting period can be, when it's for a position you really have your heart set on!

Thank you in advance!